Mathematics

Overview

Education

For the PhD program in mathematics, the student must meet the following five requirements in addition to those of the Graduate Council. The Mathematics program is offered by the University of Tennessee Knoxville.

• Demonstrate competency in advanced calculus and linear algebra by either a satisfactory performance on a diagnostic examination or by passing the appropriate 400-level course with a grade of B or better by the end of the student’s first year of graduate school. The appropriate course for advanced calculus is the MATH 447-MATH 448 sequence and for linear algebra is the MATH 457-MATH 458 sequence or MATH 453. 

• Satisfy either the standard program or the interdisciplinary mathematical ecology/evolution concentration. A student intending to work in mathematical ecology/evolution may complete either but is encouraged to complete the interdisciplinary mathematical ecology/evolution concentration. 

• Take at least two different one-semester research seminars and MATH 599. 

• Pass an examination in the field of specialization after requirements in bullets 1-3 have been met. This examination will be given by a committee appointed by the department head. A student may take this specialty examination no more than two times. 

• Pass a one-year, 600-level sequence in mathematics outside the student’s area of specialization. The sequence selected to fulfill this requirement must be approved by the department head and the student’s doctoral committee.