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Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics

SIU math students and faculty in the Math Lab in Morris Library

In the doctoral program, you'll immerse yourself in advanced mathematical studies, focusing on original research that contributes significantly to the field. This rigorous program is designed to develop your expertise to the highest level, preparing you for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, or industry.

Through close collaboration with faculty, you'll explore the frontiers of mathematical knowledge, culminating in a dissertation that showcases your research findings and contributions to mathematics.

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SIU Math Students review a geometric shape

Degree Requirements

To qualify for the PhD in Mathematics, candidates must first demonstrate excellence in a graduate-level mathematics, statistics, or computer science program. The PhD journey includes passing a qualifying exam within four semesters, showing competence in computer programming, completing coursework across major and minor areas of study, forming a dissertation committee, and passing a preliminary examination. Ultimately, candidates must produce a dissertation that makes an original contribution to the field and defend it successfully.

Direct Entry

A prospective student without a master’s degree can request direct entry into the Ph.D. in Mathematics program. They must meet the same coursework requirements and demonstrate that they have completed a research project in English. Students should be aware that this option reduces the amount of TA funding they can receive by 12 months.

Accelerated Entry

A current student in our master’s in Mathematics program can request accelerated entry into the Ph.D. in Mathematics program once they have completed one year. They must meet the same coursework requirements and demonstrate that they have completed a research project in English. Students should be aware that the option reduces the amount of TA funding they can receive by 12 months.

Tracks

Students can get a general Ph.D. in Mathematics or they can choose one of the four tracks listed below. Students should make their choice when they apply or during their first year in the Ph.D. in Mathematics program.

  • Applied Mathematics
  • Statistics
  • Computational Mathematics
  • Pure Mathematics

Assistantships

University policy allows 24 months of graduate assistantships for master’s students, 48 months for Ph.D. students with a master’s degree, and 60 months for direct entry Ph.D. students. 

Careers

Holding a PhD in Mathematics opens doors to a wide range of careers across academia, research, and industry. Graduates can pursue positions as university professors, research scientists in government or private sector labs, quantitative analysts in finance, data scientists in technology firms, cryptographers for security agencies, or as experts in mathematical modeling for engineering companies. Each path focuses on developing the advanced analytical and problem-solving skills cultivated during doctoral studies, presenting opportunities to make potential contributions across various fields through innovation, teaching, and practical applications..

Contact Information

Mingqing Xiao
Director of Graduate Studies
Neckers 463
1245 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618.453.6587
mathgradinfo@siu.edu

Dubravka Ban
Director
Neckers 365
1245 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-6589
dban@siu.edu

School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences | College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics | 618-453-5302 |