The First Year
To be in good standing every student must pass either two Master's level exams on the year-long 600-level courses: algebra (MTH 661/662), topology (MTH 631/632), and analysis (MTH 633/634) or pass one qualifying exam on one of the four core year-long 700-level courses (mentioned above) before the start of their second year. The exams are given once in June and once in August. No exam may be taken more than twice.
The Second Year
Students normally take three 700-level courses during their second year. Two of the three courses will concern material for their qualifying exams. To be in good standing every student must pass an additional qualifying exam before the start of their third year. No exam may be taken more than twice.
The Third Year
Students must complete any remaining core year-long 700-level courses. A specialty is chosen and coursework will begin concentrating in this area. To be in good standing every student must complete the qualifying exam requirement by June and are required to find a dissertation advisor also by June.
The Fourth Year
Research and coursework in your area of research.
The Fifth Year
Research continues and the dissertation is written. For students who wish to continue in academics, applications are sent out in the fall.
The Sixth Year
Only in exceptional cases will support be extended to a sixth year.
