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Mathematics: Foundations of Advanced Studies MA

Master of Arts in Mathematics

Math Professor Julie Simons in front of a chalkboard

In less than two years, earn your MA in Mathematics with the UW–Madison Foundations of Advanced Studies program. Build the knowledge you need to compete for a position in a prestigious PhD or other graduate program.


Is this program right for you?

The UW–Madison Foundations of Advanced Studies in Mathematics master’s program provides academic rigor in courses that cover the diverse mathematical spectrum, and helps build the skills you need to get into a competitive graduate program.

Best suited for students with basic mathematics preparation from their undergraduate institution, the Foundations of Advanced Studies in Mathematics master’s was designed so that you can earn your degree in no more than two years. We may waive some course requirements for students with a higher level of preparation, allowing you to complete your degree in just one year.

Whether your future involves a position in academics or another setting, the UW–Madison Foundations of Advanced Studies in Mathematics master’s program provides you with a strong foundation upon which to build your career.

Is this program right for you?

The UW–Madison Foundations of Advanced Studies in Mathematics master’s program provides academic rigor in courses that cover the diverse mathematical spectrum, and helps build the skills you need to get into a competitive graduate program.

Best suited for students with basic mathematics preparation from their undergraduate institution, the Foundations of Advanced Studies in Mathematics master’s was designed so that you can earn your degree in no more than two years. We may waive some course requirements for students with a higher level of preparation, allowing you to complete your degree in just one year.

Whether your future involves a position in academics or another setting, the UW–Madison Foundations of Advanced Studies in Mathematics master’s program provides you with a strong foundation upon which to build your career.

Admissions requirements

All applicants must:

  • Have an undergraduate degree in mathematics or a related field with a strong mathematical component.
  • Have completed courses in Linear Algebra, Analysis I, Modern Algebra I, and Elementary Topology; some of these courses may be taken during the first semester, but will not count for credit toward the degree.
  • Submit GRE scores using code 1846 (optional).
  • Submit evidence of English language proficiency, if applicable. The required proficiency scores are: TOEFL IFL 92, PBT 580; or IELTS 7.0.

Application materials required:

  • Online application
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Statement of reason for graduate study
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • List of advanced mathematics courses applicant has completed, is currently enrolled in, or intends to take

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Program highlights

  • Our Mathematics master’s program is accelerated, so you earn your degree in two years. If you have a higher level of undergraduate mathematics preparation, we may waive some course requirements so you can graduate in just one year.
  • The Foundations of Advanced Studies program is explicitly designed to enhance your chance for admittance to a high-quality PhD-level program.
  • We have partnerships with Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Nanjing University, Sun Yat-sen University, Wuhan University, and Nankai University, so you learn with a worldwide network of mathematics students and make connections that span the globe.

How you'll learn

  • Up to two years of full-time study on campus to earn your degree.
  • Complete coursework and assignments individually.

Sample curriculum

Required Courses

  • Analysis II
  • Modern Algebra II

Basic Electives

  • Numerical Linear Algebra
  • Numerical Analysis
  • Introduction to Splines and Wavelets
  • Ordinary Differential Equations
  • Linear Programming Methods
  • Probability Theory
  • Algebraic Topology
  • Differential Geometry
  • Elementary Number Theory
  • Mathematical Logic
  • Sequence in Mathematical Biology
  • Analysis of Partial Differential Equations
  • Analysis III
  • Complex Analysis
  • Fourier Analysis
  • Measure and Integration
  • Introduction to Stochastic Processes
  • Introduction to Brownian Motion and Stochastic Calculus
  • Introduction to Error-Correcting Codes

Advanced Electives

  • Applied Mathematics I and II
  • Computational Mathematics I and II
  • Real Analysis I and II
  • Complex Analysis
  • Probability Theory I and II
  • Algebra I and II
  • Topology I and II
  • Differentiable Manifolds
  • Foundations of Mathematics
  • Set Theory
  • Computability Theory
  • Model Theory

Ready to learn more about Mathematics: Foundations of Advanced Studies MA?
View the UW-Madison Guide

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Our friendly, knowledgeable enrollment coaches are here to answer your questions. Contact an enrollment coach to:

  • Learn how to make this program work with your life/schedule
  • Get help with your application
  • Determine if financial aid is available

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