PhD in Mathematics

The PhD in Mathematics consists of :

• Preliminary coursework and study
• Qualifying exams
• A candidacy exam with an adviser 
• Creative research culminating in a written dissertation and defense
• Fulfillment of a teaching requirement

There are minimal course requirements for the program. 

Detailed requirements and procedures for the PhD program are outlined in the department's PhD Handbook. Additional requirements can be found in the GSAS handbooks.

Residency

This program is an in-resident program. The vast majority of our graduate courses are offered in-person on our campus in Medford, MA; a few graduate courses are offered online during the summer semester. A very limited amount of graduate housing is available via lottery. Most of our graduate students live off-campus.

Research and Scholarship

The Math Department's professors are active in research and are devoted to teaching and mentoring students. Thus, there are many opportunities to be involved in cutting-edge research in pure and applied mathematics. Moreover, the seven other research universities in the Boston area are all within easy reach, providing access to many more classes, seminars and colloquia in diverse areas of mathematical research.

Teaching and Instruction

Teaching assistantships are available for incoming PhD students, as well as a limited number of University-wide fellowships. Additionally, PhD students often:

• Mentor undergraduates as teaching assistants and course instructors, and through graduate-student run programs like the Directed Reading Program.
• Meet with advisors and fellow students to share research and collaborate with scholars across disciplines
• Attend professional development workshops and present research at conferences

Questions?

Kindly note, for questions about the admissions process, how to fill out the admissions applications, financial aid, ** application fee waivers **, English Proficiency waivers, and the application software, please reach out to the Graduate Admissions team at our School of Arts and Science. Their email address and information about fee waivers and the application process can be found on their FAQ. The Math Department does not control the process for waiving application fees and cannot request them for you.