Mathematics, Ph.D.

View Checksheet

Minimum Total Hours: 90

Program Code: D670

Program Requirements

  • The Mathematics Ph.D. requires 90 hours of graduate credit beyond the baccalaureate degree, of which 2 hours may by MATH 5980 or MATH 5990.
  • Seminars and colloquia are expected in addition to regular coursework. 
A sequence of 12 hours numbered above 5000 level (including seminars) in one of the major areas of mathematics, or in the area of RUME (Research in Undergraduate Mathematics Education)12
At least 18 hours of additional coursework in mathematics above 5000 level18
Tools of research as determined and monitored by student's PhD Advisory Committee, including but not limited to: reading proficiency in a foreign language, proficiency in a programming language, or IRB training.
Electives and dissertation hours (MATH 6980) as determined by the student's advisory committee to reach 90 hours beyond the baccalaureate60
A dissertation representing an original contribution to mathematical knowledge or to RUME
Total Credit Hours90

General Requirements for Doctoral Degrees

A student should expect to spend at least the equivalent of three full academic years beyond the bachelor’s degree to obtain the doctoral degree. During this period the student will take appropriate graduate coursework, successfully complete the general examination, and successfully defend and submit the final dissertation.

All coursework applied to the doctoral degree must carry graduate credit.

The doctoral degree requires at least 90 post-baccalaureate hours, including both formal coursework and hours of research.

The minimum hour requirement for a specific doctoral degree program cannot be waived.

No more than one-half of the credit hours, both OU and overall, excluding Research for Doctoral Dissertation (6980), may be S/U-graded coursework.

The student must be in residence at OU for at least two consecutive 16-week semesters during the pursuit of the doctoral degree while enrolled and engaged in coursework or research activities as prescribed by the major academic unit.

For more detailed regulations and requirements for Doctoral degrees, please consult the Graduate College Bulletin: http://www.ou.edu/gradcollege/forms/bulletin