Online Master's Degree in Mathematics

M.S. in Mathematics Overview

Build your proficiency in teaching mathematics at advanced levels with our online master’s degree in mathematics.

Shawnee State University Online Campus’s master’s degree in mathematics online program offers you a convenient path toward earning your degree and advancing your career. Designed to meet the needs of working professionals, including educators, the accelerated program will give you credentials to teach advanced mathematics at the high school, community college, or university level and to instruct dual-credit courses in high schools.

Topics of study for the master’s in mathematics online program include:

• Abstract algebra structures through vector spaces or group and ring theories
• Statistics principles related to applied linear regression
• Various calculus concepts, such as limits of functions, differentiation, and exponential functions
• Conducting and interpreting common multivariate statistical methods that may be used in educational research

As an online student enrolled in the online master’s degree in mathematics, you will experience individualized attention throughout your educational experience. With one-on-one assistance from your professors who are dedicated to your success, you can earn your master’s degree in as little as 27 months. Since the program was designed with employed professionals in mind, you can complete your studies at a time and place that’s most convenient.

The Online M.S. Degree in Mathematics is Designed for:

• High school teachers seeking the credentials to teach College Credit Plus courses.
• Current instructors who want to teach higher-level mathematics.
• Students who wish to pursue a doctoral degree.

A big plus of Shawnee State’s program is that it prepared me to teach a wide variety of classes commonly taught in the first two years including meeting the American Statistical Association’s (ASA) and Mathematical Association of America’s (MAA) qualifications for teaching introductory statistics. – Tyler Maley ’19

Courses and Requirements

With a total of 36 credit hours, SSU’s online master’s degree in mathematics explores various advanced topics in mathematics and applied research. The program can be tailored to suit your goals as you select five courses for core requirements, four mathematical electives, and nine credit hours of applied research courses.

Core Course Requirements (15 Credit Hours)

Select five courses; each is worth 3 credit hours:

MATH 5210 - Abstract Algebra 1

Abstract Algebra 1

This course covers the mathematical structures of groups and rings. Group theory topics include groups, permutations, subgroups, isomorphisms, homomorphisms, and quotient groups, the Sylow theorems, and finite abelian groups are covered. Ring theory topics include homorophisms, ideals, quotient rings, Euclidean Domains, and polynomial rings.

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MATH 5220 - Abstract Algebra 2

Abstract Algebra 2

This course covers the mathematical structures of vector spaces, modules, fields, and linear transformations. Topics include linear extension fields, Galois Theory, and canonical forms of linear transformations.

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MATH 5500 - Regression I

Regression I

This is an applied linear regression course that will initially focus on strengthening the student’s undergraduate background in statistics. Topics for this section will include: sampling distributions, point estimates, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, ANOVA, and sample size calculations. The second part of the course will introduce maximum likelihood estimation and topics in linear and non-linear regression. The course will blend hands-on data analysis and a theoretical framework.

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MATH 6500 - Regression II

Regression II

This is a second course in applied linear regression. Topics will include: logistic regression, diagnostic procedures, general linear F-tests and sequential sum of squares, multicollinearity, piecewise regression, selection of the best subset of predictors, more advanced diagnostic procedures, and non-parametric regression. The course will blend hands-on data analysis and a theoretical framework.

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MATH 5610 - Mathematical Analysis I

Mathematical Analysis I

This is the first course in a two-sequence course that is an in-depth exploration of Calculus topics in an abstract setting. Topics include the real number system, metric spaces, compact sets, sequences, limits of functions, and continuous functions.

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MATH 5620 - Mathematical Analysis II

Mathematical Analysis II

This is the second course in a two-sequence course that is an in-depth exploration of Calculus topics in an abstract setting. Topics include series of real numbers, differentiation, Riemann Stieltjes integral, convergence of sequence and series of functions, analytic functions, and examinations of some special functions such as exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and gamma function.

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Mathematical Electives (12 Credit Hours)

Select four courses; each is worth 3 credit hours:

MATH 5100 - Advanced Linear Algebra

Advanced Linear Algebra

The study of vector spaces and related concepts such as span, linear independence, matrices, linear transformations, invariant subspaces and eigenspaces of a single linear operator. Additional topics such as inner product spaces, canonical forms, and error correcting codes may be included.

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MATH 5110 - Computational Linear Algebra with Python

Computational Linear Algebra with Python

This course covers basic concepts of algorithms for solving problems in linear algebra. Theoretical and experimental results will be studied with an emphasis on cost, stability, and convergence. Students will implement and analyze direct and iterative algorithms for solving linear systems, calculate eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and perform matrix decompositions. Applications to a variety of areas will be explored. Learning and using Python and the NumPy library form an essential component of the course. Details of the language will be developed concurrently with necessary algorithms, so knowledge of Python is not required. Some prior programming experience is helpful but not required.

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MATH 5200 - Foundations of Geometry

Foundations of Geometry

Rigorous study of Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometry from an axiomatic point of view. Examination of the axiomatic approach, and its role in organizing mathematical knowledge. The history of the development of non-Euclidean geometry, and an introduction to transformational geometry.

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MATH 5300 - Number Theory

Number Theory

This course investigates the properties of the natural numbers and integers. Topics include factorization, Euclidean algorithm, Diophantine equations, congruence, and divisibility.

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MATH 5400 - Probability I

Probability I

This course begins with detailed review of basic probability including single random variables and jointly distributed random variables. Conditional probability, conditional expectation, and applications are included. Markov Chains and applications are also covered. Poisson processes are also covered if time permits.

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MATH 5555 - Complex Variables

Complex Variables

General Algebra of complex numbers, analytic functions, mappings, Cauchy Integral theory, Residue theory, and applications.

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MATH 5800 - Topology

Topology

Concepts of general topological space, metric space. Compact and connected subsets. Separation axioms. Additional topics as time permits.

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MATH 5220 - Abstract Algebra 2 (if not used in the Core Requirements)

Abstract Algebra 2 (if not used in the Core Requirements)

This course covers the mathematical structures of vector spaces, modules, fields, and linear transformations. Topics include linear extension fields, Galois Theory, and canonical forms of linear transformations.

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MATH 6500 - Regression II (if not used in the Core Requirements)

Regression II (if not used in the Core Requirements)

This is a second course in applied linear regression. Topics will include: logistic regression, diagnostic procedures, general linear F-tests and sequential sum of squares, multicollinearity, piecewise regression, selection of the best subset of predictors, more advanced diagnostic procedures, and non-parametric regression. The course will blend hands-on data analysis and a theoretical framework.

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MATH 5620 - Mathematical Analysis II (if not used in the Core Requirements)

Mathematical Analysis II (if not used in the Core Requirements)

This is the second course in a two-sequence course that is an in-depth exploration of Calculus topics in an abstract setting. Topics include series of real numbers, differentiation, Riemann Stieltjes integral, convergence of sequence and series of functions, analytic functions, and examinations of some special functions such as exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and gamma function.

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Applied Research (9 Credit Hours)

MATH 6610 - Quantitative Methods I (2 credit hours)

Quantitative Methods I (2 credit hours)

This course will introduce students to multivariate statistical methods that may be used in education research. The focus of the class will be on conducting, interpreting, and presenting the results for common multivariate statistical procedures, such as independent and dependent samples t-tests, ANOVA, two and three-way ANOVA, chi-square tests of independence and goodness of fit, ANCOVA, and repeated measures ANOVA.

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MATH 6620 - Quantitative Methods II and Test Theory (2 credit hours)

Quantitative Methods II and Test Theory (2 credit hours)

This course is a continuation of MATH 6610 Quantitative Methods I. In this course, students will be introduced to additional multivariate statistical methods that may be used in education research such as MANOVA, MANCOVA, and non-parametric techniques. Students will also be introduced to measurement concepts and modern test theory, primarily focusing on Classical Test Theory and Item Response Theory including issues central to measurement such as reliability, validity, test construction, and equating.

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MATH 6996 - Applied Research I* (2 credit hours)

Applied Research I* (2 credit hours)

This is the initial course of a 3-course, 5-hour sequence, in which students will be introduced to the research process for program and/or course improvements in mathematics education. The overarching goal is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to evaluate and carry out rigorous research in mathematics education. During this course sequence, students will decide a research project topic, collect and analyze their data, and present their findings orally and in writing.

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MATH 6997 - Applied Research II* (1 credit hour)

Applied Research II* (1 credit hour)

This is the second course of research sequence, in which students implement their research proposal that was approved in MATH6996, Research I.

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MATH 6998 - Applied Research III* (2 credit hours)

Applied Research III* (2 credit hours)

This is the final course of the research sequence, in which students implement their action research project that is geared toward program improvement in mathematics education.

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*Can only be taken by degree-seeking students; students seeking the Graduate Certificate in Mathematical Sciences are not approved to take these classes.
Note: Each course in the Applied Research component is worth 2 credit hours except MATH 6998 Research II, which is worth 1 credit hour.

Admission Requirements

Before applying for this program, you should have:

• A bachelor’s degree in mathematics or related field with a minimum 2.75 GPA
• Completed the calculus sequence and three proof-based math courses with grades of B or higher in each.

*If the applicant does not have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or a related field or does not meet the minimum grade standard for the calculus sequence and proof-based math courses then the student is still encouraged to submit their application for conditional acceptance status. Students who are conditionally accepted may be required to enroll in an undergraduate course (or courses) in which they will have the opportunity to strengthen their background in undergraduate mathematics before enrolling in graduate level mathematics.

International students residing outside the United States of America may apply and enroll into the Shawnee State University’s online M.S. in Mathematics degree. The program is administered all online and the international student will maintain a full course of study. Admitted students will not be issued an I-20 for entry into the United States. The program will be completed by the student from their home country. Please refer to www.studyinthestates.dhs.gov for more information pertaining to enrollment in an online program from your home country.

How to Apply

In order to apply for admission into our online master’s degree in mathematics, please contact an enrollment counselor and submit the following:

• Completed application
• Transcripts from a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• A personal statement regarding professional goals
• Two letters of recommendation

Costs & Financial Aid

The online M.S. in Mathematics degree is offered at a tuition rate of $500 per credit hour for in-state students and $535 per credit hour for out-of-state students. Nine credits may be transferred into the program.

Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Fees are charged per semester unless otherwise noted. This program takes five semesters to complete, depending on transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 855-815-0323 or request more information.

* Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Financial Aid

To help make your online education more affordable, Shawnee State offers financial aid in the form of loans, scholarships, and grants. If you have questions, our experienced enrollment counselors and tuition planners will assist you through the process.

Learn More About Financial Aid

Military Students

At Shawnee State, we want those who have served our country to get the education they deserve. As a veteran or current member of the U.S. military, you can receive federal and state educational benefits through the VA, and we will provide you with guidance and support throughout your online education.

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Career Outcomes

After completing the program at SSU, I taught as an adjunct faculty member at a community college and then as full-time faculty at a regional technical college. My graduate coursework prepared me well to teach undergraduate Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, and Statistics courses. – Katie McCormack ’22

The online master’s degree in mathematics will equip you with the skills needed to pursue a variety of careers, such as:

Salary and job growth information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.