Loyola University Chicago

Mathematics and Statistics

Admission

Ready to apply? Let's move forward.

 

 

 

Some of the MS in Mathematics degree recipients at the Spring 2016 Graduation Reception: Anup Poudel (who is off to a PhD program in mathematics), Mike Kratochvil (who is off to a PhD program in applied mathematics), Mark Amobi (who is working full time as an application developer for a healthcare company in the greater Chicago area), and Kelsey Plunk (who is heading back home to Texas to teach high school math and coach volleyball).

Academic Requirements for Admission

Applicants are expected to possess a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree from an accredited institution and to have earned a minimum of a "B" average in undergraduate coursework. Completion of the following coursework is expected:

It is also recommended that applicants have completed two further mathematical courses centered on proof, such as:

  • Introduction to Proof, equivalent to MATH 201
  • Abstract Algebra, equivalent to MATH 313
  • Real Analysis, equivalent to MATH 351

Prospective students deficient in these criteria may, depending on the circumstance, be admitted with probationary or non-degree-seeking status. (In particular, students who have not taken equivalents of 201, 313, and 351 will work with the Program Director to fill these gaps early in their Loyola graduate career.) A pattern of success after matriculation would, subsequently, lead to full admission.

Additional Requirements for Admission

Finally, all prospective students should provide further evidence (beyond the coursework above) of readiness for a program centered on mathematical proof. Examples may include: additional upper-level undergraduate coursework in mathematics or other STEM fields; official GRE scores; letters of recommendation explicitly addressing this point, etc. Please highlight anything you think is relevant in your personal statement and resumé.

Note: the Subject Test and General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) are not required for admission, but are accepted.

International applicants are expected to demonstrate English language proficiency. This and related policies are described on the Graduate School's International Admission page.

Start the Application Process

The following items are required to apply:

  1. Application Form. Start your application by using our online application form.
  2. Personal Statement. Submitted through the online application, your one- to two-page personal statement, single-spaced, should address the following questions.
    What motivated your decision to pursue this graduate degree? Is there anything motivating an application to Loyola, specifically? What qualifications or attributes do you bring with you that predict your success in our program? What are your career goals following the completion of your degree, and how do you envision our courses and faculty supporting them?
  3. Three Letters of Recommendation. Typically, at least two letters written on your behalf should come from academic sources who can speak in detail about: your quantitative and analytical skills and achievements; and other attributes indicating readiness for a graduate program in mathematics. (Exceptions can be made for applicants who have been in the workplace for a number of years, but letters should still focus on quantitative and analytical expertise and/or promise.)
    Advice on identifying good letter writers, and securing good letters, may be found here.
  4. Transcripts. Official transcripts are required from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  5. Transcript Evaluation? Applicants who attended an institution outside the US, must have their transcript "evaluated" (i.e., converted to the US grade system). Evaluation by any NACES member company is permitted; IEE, ECE, WES, and SpanTran are commonly used. The translated GPA must meet the minimum "B" requirement.

For International Students

  1. English Profeciency Exam. Official TOEFL, IELTS or PTE scores(*). International applicants whose native language is not English are required to have earned a score of at least 79 on the TOEFL examination , 6 on the IELTS examination, 53 on the PTE examination, or 105 on a Duolingo score report.

    (*) This requirement is waived for applicants who are citizens of the following countries or who are currently completing/have completed a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in the U.S. or at a recognized institution in the following countries at which the language of instruction is English: Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, an Anglophone country of Africa (Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ghana, Nigeria), or an English-speaking country of Caribbean (Anguilla, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Grenada, Jamaica, Antigua & Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Guyana, Monserrat).

Further information regarding Loyola University Chicago's Graduate School requirements for international students can be found here.

BS/MS 5-year Program

Students pursuing undergraduate studies in the Mathematics and Statistics Department at Loyola are strongly encouraged to apply for the five-year combined BS/MS degree. Learn more about our combined BS/MS programs.