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Cornell's mathematics graduate program culminates in a Ph.D. degree, typically requiring five to six years of study. A key strength of our program lies in the faculty's diverse expertise across multiple mathematical disciplines. Our department boasts exceptional research groups specializing in algebra, algebraic geometry, analysis, applied mathematics, combinatorics, dynamical systems, geometry, logic, Lie groups, number theory, probability, and topology. We maintain strong collaborations with renowned graduate programs in applied mathematics, computer science, operations research, and statistics. Our Ph.D. program focuses on developing mathematicians who can both generate and effectively share mathematical knowledge. The primary doctoral requirement involves producing a dissertation that offers meaningful original contributions to the field, completed under faculty supervision.
Students aren't expected to select a specific research focus or advisor immediately upon entering the program. We encourage exploring multiple mathematical areas to make informed decisions about specialization. Initial coursework includes foundational core subjects in various mathematical disciplines. Beyond research training, we prepare graduates for diverse career paths in academia, industry, and public sector positions. Our program cultivates adaptable, well-rounded mathematicians through an extensive array of advanced courses and seminars.
Applicants must have completed the work for an undergraduate degree in mathematics. That work should have included a rigorous course in advanced calculus and real variable theory that will serve as an introduction to measure theory. The student should also have some familiarity with applications of advanced calculus and should have had courses in linear algebra and modern abstract algebra at an advanced level.
English Language Proficiency Requirement
IELTS Academic - 7.0; TOEFL - The Graduate School’s official minimum sub-scores for each element of the TOEFL iBT are: Speaking: 22, Reading: 20, Listening: 15, Writing: 20.