Elizabeth City State University

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M.S.

Mathematics | Master’s

Department of Business and Technology

Build Analytical Power. Lead with Precision.

Advance your mathematical expertise while preparing for careers in teaching, research, industry, or doctoral study.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Mathematics at Elizabeth City State University provides a rigorous foundation in advanced mathematics combined with hands-on experience in teaching and applied problem-solving.

This program is designed for STEM graduates seeking to:

  • Strengthen analytical and computational skills
  • Apply mathematical and statistical tools to real-world problems
  • Gain experience using modern technology and software in mathematics
  • Prepare for careers in education, industry, or doctoral programs

Graduates commonly pursue roles as:

  • Doctoral students in mathematics, engineering, or data science
  • Community college instructors
  • University lecturers
  • High school educators (advanced licensure)

Program Tracks

Applied Mathematics

  • Focus on mathematical modeling, analysis, and computation Prepares students for:
  • Industry roles (data analysis, technology, engineering)
  • Doctoral programs in mathematics or applied sciences
  • Emphasis on real-world applications and advanced mathematical methods

Community College Teaching

  • Designed for students pursuing teaching careers at the college level
  • Combines advanced mathematics with:
    • Instructional methods
    • Educational research
  • Prepares graduates for teaching in community colleges and universities

Degree Requirements

RequirementDetails
Total Credit Hours36
GPA Requirement3.0 minimum
Culminating ExperienceThesis
Full-Time Status9 credit hours/semester
  • Includes core coursework, concentration courses, and electives
  • Requires completion of a research-based thesis

Dual Enrollment

Permission from the student’s graduate committee must be obtained for the student to be dual-enrolled in other academic programs (undergraduate, graduate, or professional), whether at ECSU or another institution at any time during matriculation in the ECSU graduate program.


Curriculum Highlights

Students engage in advanced coursework such as:

  • Real Analysis
  • Modern Algebra
  • Advanced Linear Algebra
  • Applied Statistics
  • Numerical Analysis
  • Differential Equations

Courses are paired with research and thesis development, allowing students to explore topics in:

  • Pure mathematics
  • Applied mathematics
  • Mathematics education
  • Computational and statistical applications

Research & Thesis

All students must complete a thesis project, which includes:

  • Independent or faculty-guided research
  • Application of mathematical theory or pedagogy
  • Written thesis and formal defense

Research areas may include:

  • Applied mathematics
  • Mathematical modeling
  • Mathematics education
  • Data analysis and computational methods

Applicants must submit the following:

– Bachelor’s degree in:
-Mathematics or related field (STEM, engineering, education with math minor)
– Minimum 2.5 GPA for admission

Required Coursework
Applicants should have completed:
– Calculus I, II, III
– Linear Algebra
– Statistics or Differential Equations

– Completed graduate application
– Resume or CV
– Transcripts (official required before enrollment)
– 2 references
– TOEFL (if applicable)
– ECSU health form

Course Load

Nine (9) semester hours are required for full time status.

Transfer Credits

No more than six (6) graduate credit hours may be transferred from other institutions.

A hand writes mathematical equations in white chalk on a blue chalkboard.

Program Support

Students benefit from:

  • Dedicated faculty mentorship
  • Graduate advising support
  • Research guidance and thesis committees
  • Flexible scheduling for working professionals

Program Leadership

Dr. Farrah Ward

Professor of Mathematics | Gilchrist Hall, Room 347

fjward@ecsu.edu | 252-335-8724

Dr. Farrah Ward

Professor of Mathematics | Gilchrist Hall, Room 347

A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary

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