GraduateAdvising

Graduate Advising

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics provides comprehensive advising support for both current and prospective graduate students. Our goal is to help you navigate program requirements, plan your academic path, and make informed decisions throughout every stage of your graduate studies.

Advising for Prospective Graduate Students

Students interested in pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in Mathematics or Statistics are encouraged to contact the Graduate Advisor with questions about programs, admissions, prerequisites, and research opportunities. The Graduate Advisor can assist with:

• Understanding degree options (M.S., Ph.D., Graduate Certificate)
• Evaluating your academic preparation
• Explaining the application process and required materials
• Discussing funding opportunities such as Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs)
• Connecting you with faculty in your areas of interest

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Advising for Current Graduate Students

Once admitted, students work closely with the Graduate Advisor and their Faculty Advisor to stay on track academically and professionally. Advising support includes:

• Course selection and long-term academic planning
• Guidance on preliminary and qualifying examinations
• Degree plan filing and required Graduate School paperwork
• Research direction and faculty mentor selection
• Understanding annual evaluations and satisfactory progress expectations
• Information about teaching responsibilities for GTAs

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Degree Plans and Milestones

All graduate students must file an official degree plan with the Graduate School. Degree plans outline required coursework, research hours, and milestone examinations. Students are expected to:

• File their degree plan after the first year of study
• Meet regularly with their Faculty Advisor
• Make progress toward preliminary and/or qualifying exams
• Maintain good academic standing each semester

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Faculty Advisors and Committees

Each graduate student is assigned a Faculty Advisor who provides academic guidance and mentors the student through coursework, research development, and exam preparation. Doctoral students later form a Doctoral Advisory Committee to guide dissertation research and evaluate progress.

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Additional Resources for Graduate Students

The department encourages students to take advantage of the many resources available to them during their studies:

• Graduate Teaching Assistant Training: workshops and mentoring for new instructors
• Research Seminars and Colloquia: regular departmental talks across mathematics and statistics
• Student Organizations: including SIAM, AWM, and other graduate-led groups
• Graduate School Support: thesis formatting help, professional development, and funding opportunities

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Contact

For advising questions or to schedule an appointment, contact the Graduate Advisor: