Through an array of available concentrations ranging from pure mathematics to individualized studies to data science and beyond, the Mathematics, BS provides students with a thorough, customizable, and exciting education in mathematics.
Teacher Licensure
Students who wish to become teachers can pursue either the Mathematics, BA or the Mathematics, BS in addition to obtaining teaching credentials. For more information, visit the Secondary Education program's webpage.
Admissions
University-wide admissions policies can be found in the Undergraduate Admissions Policies section of this catalog.
To apply for this program, please complete the George Mason University Admissions Application.
Transferring into the Mathematics, BS1
Students transferring into the Mathematics, BS are required to meet the following criteria:
- Holding a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0, and
- Holding a minimum GPA of 2.5 in mathematics coursework.
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This does not apply to newly admitted George Mason students or to students who do not have prior college-level coursework on their record.
Policies
Students must fulfill all Requirements for Bachelor's Degrees, including the Mason Core.
MATH 300 Introduction to Advanced Mathematics (Mason Core) meets the writing intensive requirement for this major.
For policies governing all undergraduate programs, see AP.5 Undergraduate Policies.
Graduating seniors are required to have an exit interview.
Language Proficiency Recommendation
The department recommends proficiency in French, German, or Russian.
Course Recommendations and Policies
A maximum of 6 credits of grades below 2.00 in coursework designated MATH or STAT may be applied toward the major.
Students intending to enter graduate school in mathematics are strongly advised to take MATH 315 Advanced Calculus I and MATH 321 Abstract Algebra.
Students may not receive credit for both MATH 214 Elementary Differential Equations and MATH 216 Theory of Differential Equations; both MATH 213 Analytic Geometry and Calculus III and MATH 215 Analytic Geometry and Calculus III (Honors); both MATH 351 Probability and STAT 344 Probability and Statistics for Engineers and Scientists I; and both MATH 352 Statistics and STAT 354 Probability and Statistics for Engineers and Scientists II.
After receiving a grade of 'C' or better in one of the courses listed below on the left, students may not receive credit for the corresponding course on the right:
| Course | May Not Receive Credit for |
|---|---|
| MATH 113 or MATH 123 | MATH 105 or MATH 108 |
| MATH 351 or STAT 344 | MATH 110 |
| MATH 441 | MATH 111 |
Degree Requirements
Total credits: minimum 120
Students should refer to the Admissions & Policies tab for specific policies related to this program.
In addition to the Mathematics Core, Science, and Computational Skills requirements, students must select one concentration and complete the requirements therein.
Mathematics Core
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 113 | Analytic Geometry and Calculus I (Mason Core) | 4 |
| MATH 114 | Analytic Geometry and Calculus II | 4 |
| MATH 125 | Discrete Mathematics I (Mason Core) | 3 |
| MATH 203 | Linear Algebra | 3 |
| MATH 213 | Analytic Geometry and Calculus III | 3 |
| or MATH 215 | Analytic Geometry and Calculus III (Honors) | |
| MATH 214 | Elementary Differential Equations | 3 |
| or MATH 216 | Theory of Differential Equations | |
| MATH 300 | Introduction to Advanced Mathematics (Mason Core) 1 | 3 |
| MATH 322 | Advanced Linear Algebra | 3 |
| Total Credits | 26 | |
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Fulfills the writing intensive requirement.
Science
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select a one-year sequence of a laboratory science from the following courses: | 8-9 | |
Biology Sequence: | ||
Select two from the following: | ||
| Introductory Biology I-Survey of Biodiversity and Ecology (Mason Core) 1 | ||
| Introductory Biology II-Survey of Cell and Molecular Biology (Mason Core) and Introductory Biology II Laboratory (Mason Core) 1 | ||
| Cell Structure and Function and Cell Structure and Function Laboratory | ||
Chemistry Sequence: | ||
| General Chemistry I (Mason Core) and General Chemistry Laboratory I (Mason Core) | ||
| General Chemistry II (Mason Core) and General Chemistry Laboratory II (Mason Core) | ||
Geology Sequence: | ||
| Physical Geology (Mason Core) and Physical Geology Lab (Mason Core) | ||
| Historical Geology (Mason Core) and Historical Geology Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
Physics Sequence: | ||
| University Physics I (Mason Core) and University Physics I Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
| University Physics II (Mason Core) and University Physics II Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
| Total Credits | 8-9 | |
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Students in the Mathematics for the Biological Sciences Concentration should select this course.
Computational Skills
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CS 112 | Introduction to Computer Programming (Mason Core) | 4-6 |
| or CS 108 & CS 109 | Intro to Computer Programming, Part A (Mason Core) and Intro to Computer Programming, Part B | |
| Total Credits | 4-6 | |
Individualized Concentration (IND)
Students who are looking for a flexible concentration option are able to customize their degree with the Individualized Concentration. The Individualized Concentration allows students to take coursework in a variety of fields. Students should work closely with a mathematics advisor and have their individual degree plan approved no later than their junior year.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| MATH 315 | Advanced Calculus I | 3 |
| Select two courses from the following: | 6 | |
| Advanced Calculus II | ||
| Abstract Algebra | ||
| Abstract Algebra II | ||
| Topology | ||
| Differential Geometry | ||
| Algebraic Geometry | ||
| Linear Algebra with Data Applications | ||
| Mathematics of Data Science | ||
| Electives | ||
| Select 12 additional upper-level MATH-prefixed credits (not previously taken). 1 | 12 | |
| Additional Science | ||
| Select one option from the following: | 4-9 | |
Option One | ||
A second sequence from the choices under "Science" above | ||
Option Two 2 | ||
Select 6 credits from more advanced courses in biology, chemistry, geology, or physics | ||
Option Three | ||
Option Four | ||
Select two courses from the following: | ||
| Modeling and Simulation I | ||
| Scientific Information and Data Visualization | ||
| Object-Oriented Programming | ||
| Data Structures | ||
| Formal Methods and Models | ||
| Analysis of Algorithms | ||
| Total Credits | 25-30 | |
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Excluding MATH 400 History of Math (Topic Varies) (Mason Core)
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Only refers to courses acceptable for credit toward a natural science major. Consider courses (previously taken) from the following: (BIOL 213 Cell Structure and Function and BIOL 215 Cell Structure and Function Laboratory), BIOL 300-499, CHEM 300-499, GEOL 300-499, PHYS 300-499.
Concentration in Mathematics for the Biological Sciences (MBIO)
This unique concentration's aims to integrate mathematical modeling, data analysis, and computational techniques with biological concepts.
The concentration's primary goals are to: Develop skills in modeling biological processes; to enhance quantitative reasoning and data interpretation; to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration; and to prepare mathematics students for advanced studies and/or careers in biology-related fields.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| BIOL 213 & BIOL 215 | Cell Structure and Function and Cell Structure and Function Laboratory | 4 |
| BINF 401 | Bioinformatics and Computational Biology I | 3 |
| MATH 307 | Mathematical Modeling | 3 |
| MATH 413 | Modern Applied Mathematics I | 3 |
| Elective Courses | ||
| Select four courses from the following: | 12 | |
| Advanced Differential Equations | ||
| Advanced Calculus I | ||
| Probability | ||
| Statistics | ||
| Numerical Analysis I | ||
| Linear Algebra with Data Applications | ||
| Select one course from the following: | 4 | |
| BioDiversity | ||
| Foundations of Ecology and Evolution and Foundations of Ecology and Evolution Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
| General Genetics and General Genetics Laboratory | ||
| Select two courses from the following: | 6 | |
| Foundations in Mathematical Biology (Mason Core) | ||
| Bioinformatics and Computational Biology II | ||
| Scientific Information and Data Visualization | ||
| Scientific Data and Databases (Mason Core) | ||
| Introduction to Biostatistics | ||
| Total Credits | 35 | |
Concentration in Pure Mathematics (PURM)
Pure mathematics is the study of ideas and structures that underlie all of mathematics. This concentration provides exciting opportunities for students interested in advanced coursework in the fields traditionally referred to as "pure mathematics". The concentration prepares students for a wide variety of careers involving mathematical thinking or graduate studies in pure mathematics.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Breadth Requirements | ||
| MATH 315 | Advanced Calculus I | 3 |
| MATH 321 | Abstract Algebra | 3 |
| MATH 411 | Functions of a Complex Variable | 3 |
| Select one course from the following: | 3 | |
| Geometry | ||
| Topology | ||
| Depth Requirements | ||
| Select two courses (not previously taken) from the following: | 6 | |
| Geometry | ||
| Advanced Calculus II | ||
| Discrete Mathematics II | ||
| Abstract Algebra II | ||
| Topology (if not chosen above) | ||
| Differential Geometry | ||
| Algebraic Geometry | ||
| Additional Mathematics | ||
| Select 3 credits of upper level MATH-prefixed credits (not previously taken). 1 | 3 | |
| Additional Science | ||
| Select one option from the following: | 4-9 | |
Option One | ||
A second sequence from the choices under "Science" above | ||
Option Two 2 | ||
Select 6 credits from more advanced courses in biology, chemistry, geology, or physics | ||
Option Three | ||
Option Four | ||
Select two courses from the following: | ||
| Modeling and Simulation I | ||
| Scientific Information and Data Visualization | ||
| Object-Oriented Programming | ||
| Data Structures | ||
| Formal Methods and Models | ||
| Analysis of Algorithms | ||
| Total Credits | 25-30 | |
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Excluding MATH 400 History of Math (Topic Varies) (Mason Core)
- 2
Only refers to courses acceptable for credit toward a natural science major. Consider courses (not previously taken) from the following: (BIOL 213 Cell Structure and Function and BIOL 215 Cell Structure and Function Laboratory), BIOL 300-499, CHEM 300-499, GEOL 300-499, PHYS 300-499.
Concentration in Actuarial Mathematics (ACTM)
This concentration provides exciting opportunities for students interested in studying actuarial mathematics. Expertise in this field leads directly into a career as a practicing actuary with an insurance company, consulting firm, or in government employment.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Actuarial Mathematics Courses | ||
| MATH 351 | Probability | 3 |
| MATH 352 | Statistics | 3 |
| MATH 551 | Regression and Time Series | 3 |
| MATH 554 | Financial Mathematics | 3 |
| MATH 555 | Actuarial Modeling I | 3 |
| MATH 557 | Financial Derivatives | 3 |
| ACCT 203 | Survey of Accounting | 3 |
| ECON 103 | Contemporary Microeconomic Principles (Mason Core) | 3 |
| ECON 306 | Intermediate Microeconomics 1 | 3 |
| or ECON 310 | Money and Banking | |
| or FNAN 321 | Financial Institutions | |
| STAT 362 | Introduction to Computer Statistical Packages | 3 |
| Select two courses from the following: | 6 | |
| Deterministic Optimization | ||
| Stochastic Models | ||
| Numerical Analysis I | ||
| Advanced Mathematical Statistics | ||
| Total Credits | 36 | |
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For mathematics majors, the Department of Economics has agreed to waive the ECON 104 prerequisite.
Concentration in Applied Mathematics (AMT)
This concentration provides exciting opportunities for students interested in taking additional classes in applied mathematics. The concentration prepares students to deal with real-world applications in science and engineering, or to pursue graduate studies in applied mathematics.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Applied Mathematics Courses | ||
| MATH 313 | Introduction to Applied Analysis | 3 |
| MATH 315 | Advanced Calculus I | 3 |
| MATH 351 | Probability | 3 |
| MATH 413 | Modern Applied Mathematics I | 3 |
| MATH 446 | Numerical Analysis I | 3 |
| Select 3 credits of MATH courses numbered above 300 (not previously taken). 1 | 3 | |
| Select two courses from the following: | 6 | |
| Advanced Differential Equations | ||
| Modern Applied Mathematics II | ||
| Introduction to Partial Differential Equations with Numerical Methods | ||
| Additional Science Courses | ||
| Select additional science credits from one of the following options: | 4-9 | |
Option One | ||
A second sequence from the choices under "Science" above | ||
Option Two 2 | ||
Select 6 credits from more advanced courses in biology, chemistry, geology, or physics | ||
Option Three | ||
Option Four | ||
Select two courses from the following: | ||
| Modeling and Simulation I | ||
| Scientific Information and Data Visualization | ||
| Object-Oriented Programming | ||
| Data Structures | ||
| Formal Methods and Models | ||
| Analysis of Algorithms | ||
| Total Credits | 28-33 | |
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Excluding MATH 400 History of Math (Topic Varies) (Mason Core)
- 2
Only refers to courses acceptable for credit toward a natural science major. Consider courses (not previously taken) from the following: (BIOL 213 Cell Structure and Function and BIOL 215 Cell Structure and Function Laboratory), BIOL 300-499, CHEM 300-499, GEOL 300-499, PHYS 300-499.
Concentration in Data Science (DSCI)
The data science concentration prepares math majors for careers in industry and academia with a focus on the rapidly developing area of mathematics of data science. Students in this program will develop analytical and computational skills that will provide a deeper understanding of machine learning and data science concepts. By mastering the theoretical foundation underlying practical algorithms and uncovering inherent connections with several branches of modern mathematics, students will hone their creativity and independent thinking skills necessary to lead the data science revolution.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Data Science Courses | ||
| MATH 315 | Advanced Calculus I | 3 |
| MATH 351 | Probability | 3 |
| MATH 446 | Numerical Analysis I | 3 |
| MATH 464 | Linear Algebra with Data Applications | 3 |
| Select two from the following: | 6-7 | |
| Numerical Analysis II | ||
| Mathematics of Machine Learning and Industrial Applications I and Mathematics of Machine Learning and Industrial Applications II | ||
| Mathematics of Data Science | ||
| Select one course from the following: | 3 | |
| Statistics | ||
| Introductory Statistics II | ||
| Introduction to Statistical Practice II | ||
| Statistical Theory | ||
| Select one course from the following: | 3 | |
| Scientific Information and Data Visualization | ||
| Scientific Data and Databases (Mason Core) | ||
| Data Structures | ||
| Additional Science Courses | ||
| Select additional science credits from one of the following options: | 3-4 | |
Option One | ||
Select one course from the following: | ||
| Cell Structure and Function and Cell Structure and Function Laboratory | ||
| General Chemistry I (Mason Core) and General Chemistry Laboratory I (Mason Core) | ||
| Physical Geology (Mason Core) and Physical Geology Lab (Mason Core) | ||
| University Physics I (Mason Core) and University Physics I Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
Option Two | ||
Select 3 credits from more advanced courses in biology, chemistry, geology, or physics 1 | ||
Option Three | ||
| Total Credits | 27-29 | |
- 1
Only refers to courses acceptable for credit toward a natural science major. Consider courses (not previously taken) from the following: (BIOL 213 Cell Structure and Function and BIOL 215 Cell Structure and Function Laboratory), BIOL 300-499, CHEM 300-499, GEOL 300-499, PHYS 300-499.
Concentration in Mathematical Statistics (MTHS)
This concentration provides exciting opportunities for students interested in taking additional classes on statistics and data analysis. The concentration prepares data analysts able to deal with real world applications in science and engineering.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematical Statistics Courses | ||
| MATH 315 | Advanced Calculus I | 3 |
| MATH 351 | Probability | 3 |
| MATH 352 | Statistics | 3 |
| MATH 453 | Advanced Mathematical Statistics | 3 |
| MATH 551 | Regression and Time Series | 3 |
| STAT 362 | Introduction to Computer Statistical Packages | 3 |
| Select one from the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Statistical Practice I | ||
| Introductory Statistics II | ||
| Introduction to Statistical Practice II | ||
| Select two from the following: | 6 | |
| Experimental Design | ||
| Introduction to Biostatistics | ||
| Applied Multivariate Statistics | ||
| Introduction to Exploratory Data Analysis | ||
| Nonparametric Statistics and Categorical Data Analysis | ||
| Introduction to Statistical Learning | ||
| Introduction to Survey Sampling | ||
| Additional Science Courses | ||
| Select additional science credits from one of the following options: | 3-4 | |
Option One | ||
Select one from the following: | ||
| Cell Structure and Function and Cell Structure and Function Laboratory | ||
| General Chemistry I (Mason Core) and General Chemistry Laboratory I (Mason Core) | ||
| Physical Geology (Mason Core) and Physical Geology Lab (Mason Core) | ||
| University Physics I (Mason Core) and University Physics I Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
Option Two 1 | ||
Select 3 credits from more advanced courses in biology, chemistry, geology, or physics | ||
Option Three | ||
Option Four | ||
Select one course from the following: | ||
| Modeling and Simulation I | ||
| Scientific Information and Data Visualization | ||
| Object-Oriented Programming | ||
| Data Structures | ||
| Formal Methods and Models | ||
| Analysis of Algorithms | ||
| Total Credits | 30-31 | |
- 1
Only refers to courses acceptable for credit toward a natural science major. Consider courses (not previously taken) from the following: (BIOL 213 Cell Structure and Function and BIOL 215 Cell Structure and Function Laboratory), BIOL 300-499, CHEM 300-499, GEOL 300-499, PHYS 300-499.
Mason Core and Elective Credits
In order to meet a minimum of 120 credits, this degree requires additional credits (specific credit counts by concentration are shown below), which may be applied toward any remaining Mason Core requirements (outlined below), Requirements for Bachelor's Degrees, and elective courses1. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with their advisors to ensure that they fulfill all requirements.
- INDC concentration: 49-57 credits
- MBIO concentration: 44-47 credits
- PURM concentration: 49-57 credits
- ACTM concentration: 43-46 credits
- AMT concentration: 46-54 credits
- DSCI concentration: 50-55 credits
- MTHS concentration: 48-52 credits
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A maximum of 12 credits between MATH 490 Internship and MATH 491 Reading and Undergraduate Research in Mathematics can be applied to this degree.
Mason Core
Some Mason Core requirements may already be fulfilled by the major requirements listed above. Students are strongly encouraged to consult their advisors to ensure they fulfill all remaining Mason Core requirements.
All Integration-level requirements must be completed at George Mason and cannot be satisfied through transfer credit. These courses are integral to the university's educational philosophy and ensure that all graduates demonstrate proficiency in writing, critical thinking, and integrative learning consistent with the university's standards. Rare exceptions to this policy may only be granted by the Provost's Office.
Students who have completed the following credentials are eligible for a waiver of the Foundation and Exploration (lower level) requirement categories with the exception of Written Communication, which must be met by transferring in or taking an approved coruse at George Mason University. The Integration category (upper level) is not waived under this policy. See Admissions for more information.
- VCCS Uniform Certificate of General Studies
- VCCS or Richard Bland Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Arts and Sciences (A.A.&S.), or Associate of Fine Arts (A.F.A.)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Requirements | ||
| Written Communication (lower-level) | 3 | |
| Oral Communication | 3 | |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | |
| Information Technology and Computing | 3 | |
| Exploration Requirements | ||
| Arts | 3 | |
| Global Contexts | 3 | |
| Global History | 3 | |
| Literature | 3 | |
| Natural Science | 7 | |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences | 3 | |
| Just Societies (optional) 1 | ||
| Integration Requirements | ||
| Written Communication (upper-level) | 3 | |
| Writing Intensive 2 | 3 | |
| Mason Apex 3 | 3 | |
| Total Credits | 40 | |
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In addition to covering content related to the designated category, Exploration level courses marked with a Just Societies "flag" are specifically designed to help students learn how to interact effectively with others from all walks of life, including those with backgrounds and beliefs that differ from their own. Students who wish to increase their knowledge and skills in this area may choose to enroll in a Just Societies-flagged course. Students interested in this approach to completing their Mason Core Exploration Requirements should work closely with their advisor to identify the appropriate Just Societies-flagged courses.
- 2
Most programs include the writing-intensive course designated for the major as part of the major requirements; this course is therefore not counted towards the total required for Mason Core.
- 3
Minimum 3 credits required.
Honors in the Major
Eligibility
Mathematics majors who have maintained a GPA of at least 3.50 in mathematics courses and a GPA of 3.50 in all courses taken at George Mason University may apply to the departmental honors program upon completion of two MATH courses at the 300+ level (excluding MATH 400 History of Math (Topic Varies) (Mason Core)), at least one of which has MATH 300 Introduction to Advanced Mathematics (Mason Core) as a prerequisite. Admission to the program will be monitored by the undergraduate committee.
Honors Requirements
To graduate with honors in mathematics, a student is required to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.50 in mathematics courses and successfully complete MATH 405 Honors Thesis in Mathematics I and MATH 406 RS: Honors Thesis in Mathematics II with an average GPA of at least 3.50 in these two courses.
BS (any)/Statistical Science, Accelerated MS
Overview
Highly qualified undergraduates may be admitted to the bachelor's/accelerated master's program (BAM) and obtain an undergraduate BS degree and the Statistical Science, MS in an accelerated time-frame after satisfactory completion of a minimum of 138 credits.
Admitted students may use up to 12 graduate credits in partial satisfaction of requirements for the undergraduate degree. Upon completion and conferral of the bachelor's degree and with satisfactory performance in each of the graduate courses, students are given advanced standing in the master's program.
See AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees for policies related to this program.
Students in an accelerated degree program must fulfill all university requirements for the master's degree. For policies governing all graduate degrees, see AP.6 Graduate Policies.
BAM Pathway Admission Requirements
No specific undergraduate BS degree is required. Students enrolled in any BS degree may apply to the accelerated Statistical Science, MS program if such an accelerated Statistical Science, MS pathway is allowable from the student's BS program, which will be determined by the academic advisors of both the BS and MS programs.
Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in Graduate Admissions Policies and Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degree policies.
Students will be considered for admission into the BAM Pathway after completion of a minimum of 60 credits with an overall GPA of 3.0.
Students who are accepted into the BAM Pathway will be allowed to register for graduate level courses after successful completion of a minimum of 75 undergraduate credits and course-specific prerequisites.
Accelerated Master's Admission Requirements
Students already admitted in the BAM Pathway will be admitted to the Statistical Science, MS program, if they have met the following criteria, as verified on the Bachelor’s/Accelerated Master’s Transition form:
- Completion of Mason’s requirements for undergraduate degree conferral (graduation) and completion of application for graduation.
- An overall GPA of 3.00.
- Completion of the following Mason courses, each with a grade of C or better:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 213 | Analytic Geometry and Calculus III | 3 |
| MATH 203 | Linear Algebra | 3 |
| or MATH 321 | Abstract Algebra | |
| STAT 250 | Introductory Statistics I (Mason Core) | 3 |
| or STAT 344 | Probability and Statistics for Engineers and Scientists I | |
| STAT 346 | Probability for Engineers | 3 |
| or MATH 351 | Probability | |
| STAT 362 | Introduction to Computer Statistical Packages | 3 |
Accelerated Pathway Requirements
To maintain the integrity and quality of both the undergraduate and graduate degree programs, students complete all credits satisfying degree requirements for the BS and MS programs, with up to twelve credits overlap chosen from the following graduate courses:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| STAT 544 | Applied Probability * | 3 |
| or STAT 521 | Applied Probability and Statistical Inference | |
| STAT 554 | Applied Statistics I | 3 |
| STAT 560 | Biostatistical Methods | 3 |
| STAT 574 | Survey Sampling I | 3 |
| STAT 663 | Statistical Graphics and Data Visualization | 3 |
All graduate course prerequisites must be completed prior to enrollment. Each graduate course must be completed with a grade of B or better to apply toward the MS degree.
While still in undergraduate status, a maximum of 6 additional graduate credits may be taken as reserve graduate credit and applied to the master's program. Reserve credits must come from courses that fulfill the intended master’s degree requirements. Reserve graduate credits do not apply to the undergraduate degree.
For more detailed information on coursework and timeline requirements, see AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees policies.
Degree Conferral
Students must apply the semester before they expect to complete the BS requirements to have the BS degree conferred. In addition, at the beginning of the student's final undergraduate semester, students must complete a Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Transition form. At the completion of MS requirements, a master's degree is conferred.
Mathematics, BA or BS/Mathematics, Accelerated MS
Overview
Highly-qualified undergraduates may be admitted to the combined bachelor's and accelerated master's degree pathway program (accelerated master’s or BAM) and obtain a BA or BS in Mathematics and an MS in Mathematics through the Mathematics, BA or BS/Mathematics, Accelerated MS in an accelerated time-frame after satisfactory completion of a minimum of 138 credits.
See AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees for policies related to this program.
Students in an accelerated master’s degree program must fulfill all university requirements for the master's degree. For policies governing all graduate degrees, see AP.6 Graduate Policies.
BAM Pathway Admission Requirements
Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in the Graduate Admission Policies and accelerated master's degree policies.
Students will be considered for admission into the BAM Pathway after completion of a minimum of 60 credits with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Additionally, students are encouraged to have completed a selection of the courses listed below with a grade of B or better:
Undergraduate Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 315 | Advanced Calculus I | 3 |
| MATH 321 | Abstract Algebra | 3 |
| MATH 322 | Advanced Linear Algebra | 3 |
Students who are accepted into the BAM Pathway will be allowed to register for graduate-level courses after successful completion of a minimum of 75 undergraduate credits.
Accelerated Master's Admission Requirements
Undergraduate students already admitted to the BAM Pathway will be admitted to the intended master’s program, if they have met the following criteria that
will be verified:
- Submission of BAM Transition Form by the deadline stated on the form.
- Sufficient minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA for conferred undergraduate degree (which does not include any earned reserve graduate credits).
- Completion of approved advanced standing courses and any reserve graduate courses that have met the minimum grade requirement (please refer to AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees).
- Successful completion of required minimum of 120 credits needed for undergraduate degree conferral (after exclusion of any satisfactory reserve graduate credits earned).
- Successfully meeting George Mason’s requirements for undergraduate degree conferral (graduation) and timely submission of the application for graduation.
Accelerated Pathway Requirements
To maintain the integrity and quality of both the undergraduate and graduate degree programs, undergraduate students interested in taking graduate courses must choose from the following:
Advanced Standing Courses
Students must complete at least 3 credits from the following list of graduate-level courses, while in undergraduate status, up to a maximum of 12:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 621 | Algebra I | 3 |
| MATH 631 | Topology I: Topology of Metric Spaces | 3 |
| MATH 664 | Linear Algebra with Data Applications | 3 |
| MATH 675 | Linear Analysis | 3 |
| MATH 677 | Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 |
| MATH 685 | Numerical Analysis | 3 |
Reserve Graduate Credits
While in undergraduate student status, students may complete up to 6 credits of graduate-level coursework that will only count toward the graduate degree program. Reserve credits must be selected from the curated list of courses above.
For more detailed information on coursework and timeline requirements, see AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degree and AP.1.4.4 Graduate Course Enrollment by Undergraduates.
Bachelor's Degree (selected)/Quantum Science and Engineering, Accelerated MS
Overview
Highly-qualified undergraduates may be admitted to the combined bachelor's and accelerated master's degree pathway program (BAM Pathway) and obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in any College of Science major and a Master of Science in Quantum Science and Engineering in an accelerated time-frame after satisfactory completion of a minimum of 138 credits.
This accelerated option is offered jointly by undergraduate Bachelor of Science programs in the College of Science and the Quantum Science and Engineering, MS program, which is jointly offered by the College of Science and the College of Engineering and Computing.
Students in an accelerated master’s degree program must fulfill all university
requirements for the master's degree. See AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degree for policies related to this program. For policies governing all graduate degrees, see AP.6 Graduate Policies.
BAM Pathway Admission Requirements
Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in Graduate Admissions Policies and accelerated master's degree policies.
Students must major in a College of Science Bachelor of Science program and will be considered for admission into the BAM Pathway after completion of a minimum of 60 credits.
Students who are accepted into the BAM Pathway will be allowed to register for graduate level courses after successful completion of a minimum of 75 undergraduate credits.
Accelerated Master's Admission Requirements
Undergraduate students already admitted to the BAM Pathway will be admitted to the intended master’s program if they have met the following criteria that will be verified:
- Submission of BAM Transition Form by stated deadline.
- Sufficient minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA for conferred undergraduate degree (which does not include any earned reserve graduate credits).
- Completion of approved advanced standing courses and any reserve graduate courses; please refer to policy A.P. 6.7.
- Successful completion of required minimum of 120 credits needed for undergraduate degree conferral (after exclusion any satisfactory reserve graduate credits earned).
- Successfully meeting George Mason’s requirements for undergraduate degree conferral (graduation) and timely submitting the application for graduation.
Accelerated Pathway Requirements
To maintain the integrity and quality of both the undergraduate and graduate degree programs, undergraduate students interested in taking graduate courses must choose from the following:
Advanced Standing Courses
Students must complete at least 3 credits from the following list of graduate-level courses while in undergraduate status, up to a maximum of 12.
Students are encouraged to consult with both their undergraduate advisor and the Quantum Science and Engineering, MS advisor:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select from the following options: | 3-12 | |
| Up to one 500-600 level specialized course from the following: | ||
| Computer Simulation in Astronomy | ||
| Numerical Methods for Bioinformatics | ||
| Analysis of Algorithms | ||
| Advanced Algorithms | ||
| Foundations of Parallel Computation | ||
| Numerical Methods | ||
| Computer Architecture | ||
| Applied Cryptography | ||
| Error Control Coding | ||
| Post-Quantum Cryptography | ||
| Remote Sensing | ||
| Numerical Linear Algebra | ||
| Numerical Analysis | ||
| Numerical Solutions of Differential Equations | ||
| Operations Research: Deterministic Optimization | ||
| Operations Research: Stochastic Models | ||
| Stochastic Optimization | ||
| Computational Physics I | ||
| Computational Physics II | ||
| Remaining credits are selected from the following: | ||
| Ideas in Quantum Science and Technology | ||
| Mathematical Foundations of QSE 1 | ||
| Programming Foundations of QSE 1 | ||
| Classical and Quantum Information Theory | ||
| Quantum Algorithms | ||
| Applications of Quantum Technology | ||
| Quantum Computing System Design | ||
or ECE 570 | Quantum Computing System Design | |
Reserve Credit Courses
Students may complete up to 6 credits while in undergraduate student status, of graduate-level coursework from the list below that will only count toward the graduate degree program.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select up to 6 credits of not previously completed courses from the following: | 6 | |
| Ideas in Quantum Science and Technology | ||
| Mathematical Foundations of QSE 1 | ||
| Programming Foundations of QSE 1 | ||
| Classical and Quantum Information Theory | ||
| Quantum Algorithms | ||
| Applications of Quantum Technology | ||
| Quantum Computing System Design | ||
or ECE 570 | Quantum Computing System Design | |
- 1
As only one of these courses count for Quantum Science and Engineering, MS, credit, and these courses may not be necessary for all students, consult with an academic advisor prior to enrolling in QSE 501 Mathematical Foundations of QSE or QSE 502 Programming Foundations of QSE.
For more detailed information on coursework and timeline requirements, see AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degree and AP.1.4.4 Graduate Course Enrollment by Undergraduates.