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Best Mathematics Programs

Ranked in 2023, part of Best Science Schools

A graduate degree in mathematics can help students hone

A graduate degree in mathematics can help students hone their skills in a specialty area, from algebra and number theory to discrete mathematics and combinatorics. These are the best graduate-level math programs. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

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What Does a PhD in Maths Involve?

Maths is a vast subject, both in breadth and in depth. As such, there’s a significant number of different areas you can research as a math student. These areas usually fall into one of three categories: pure mathematics, applied mathematics or statistics. Some examples of topics you can research are:

• Number theory
• Numerical analysis
• String theory
• Random matrix theory
• Graph theory
• Quantum mechanics
• Statistical forecasting
• Matroid theory
• Control theory

Besides this, because maths focuses on addressing interdisciplinary real-world problems, you may work and collaborate with other STEM researchers. For example, your research topic may relate to:

• Biomechanics and transport processes
• Evidence-based medicine
• Fluid dynamics
• Financial mathematics
• Machine learning
• Theoretical and Computational Optimisation

What you do day-to-day will largely depend on your specific research topic. However, you’ll likely:

• Continually read literature – This will be to help develop your knowledge and identify current gaps in the overall body of knowledge surrounding your research topic.
• Undertake research specific to your topic – This can include defining ideas, proving theorems and identifying relationships between models.
• Collect and analyse data – This could comprise developing computational models, running simulations and interpreting forecasts etc.
• Liaise with others – This could take many forms. For example, you may work shoulder-to-shoulder with individuals from different disciplines supporting your research, e.g. Computer scientists for machine learning-based projects. Alternatively, you may need frequent input from those who supplied the data for your research, e.g. Financial institutions or biological research colleagues.
• Attend a wide range of lectures, seminars and events.

Browse PhD Opportunities in Mathematics

Application of artificial intelligence to multiphysics problems in materials design, study of the human-vehicle interactions by a high-end dynamic driving simulator, physical layer algorithm design in 6g non-terrestrial communications, machine learning for autonomous robot exploration, detecting subtle but clinically significant cognitive change in an ageing population, how long does it take to get a phd in maths.

The average programme duration for a mathematics PhD in the UK is 3 to 4 years for a full-time studying. Although not all universities offer part-time maths PhD programmes, those that do have a typical programme duration of 5 to 7 years.

Again, although the exact arrangement will depend on the university, most maths doctorates will require you to first register for an MPhil . At the end of your first year, your supervisor will assess your progress to decide whether you should be registered for a PhD.

Additional Learning Modules

Some Mathematics departments will require you to enrol on to taught modules as part of your programme. These are to help improve your knowledge and understanding of broader subjects within your field, for example, Fourier Analysis, Differential Geometry and Riemann Surfaces. Even if taught modules aren’t compulsory in several universities, your supervisor will still encourage you to attend them for your development.

Most UK universities will also have access to specialised mathematical training courses. The most common of these include Pure Mathematics courses hosted by Mathematics Access Grid Conferencing ( MAGIC ) and London Taught Course Centre ( LTCC ) and Statistics courses hosted by Academy for PhD Training in Statistics ( APTS ).

What Are the Typical Entry Requirements for A PhD in Maths?

In the UK, the typical entry requirements for a Maths PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) Master’s degree (or international equivalent) in Mathematics or Statistics [1] .

However, there is some variation on this. From writing, the lowest entry requirement is an upper second-class (2:1) Bachelor’s degree in any math-related subject. The highest entry requirement is a first-class (1st) honours Master’s degree in a Mathematics or Statistics degree only.

It’s worth noting if you’re applying to a position which comes with funding provided directly by the Department, the entry requirements will usually be on the higher side because of their competitiveness.

In terms of English Language requirements, most mathematics departments require at least an overall IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of 6.5, with no less than 6.0 in each individual subtest.

Tips to Consider when Making Your Application

When applying to any mathematics PhD, you’ll be expected to have a good understanding of both your subject field and the specific research topic you are applying to. To help show this, it’s advisable that you demonstrate recent engagement in your research topic. This could be by describing the significance of a research paper you recently read and outlining which parts interested you the most, and why. Additionally, you can discuss a recent mathematics event you attended and suggest ways in how what you learnt might apply to your research topic.

As with most STEM PhDs, most maths PhD professors prefer you to discuss your application with them directly before putting in a formal application. The benefits of this is two folds. First, you’ll get more information on what their department has to offer. Second, the supervisor can better discover your interest in the project and gauge whether you’d be a suitable candidate. Therefore, we encourage you to contact potential supervisors for positions you’re interested in before making any formal applications.

How Much Does a Maths PhD Typically Cost?

The typical tuition fee for a PhD in Maths in the UK is £4,407 per year for UK/EU students and £20,230 per year for international students. This, alongside the range in tuition fees you can expect, is summarised below:

Note: The above tuition fees are based on 12 UK Universities [1]  for 2020/21 Mathematic PhD positions. The typical fee has been taken as the median value.

In addition to the above, it’s not unheard of for research students to be charged a bench fee. In case you’re unfamiliar with a bench fee, it’s an annual fee additional to your tuition, which covers the cost of specialist equipment or resources associated with your research. This can include the upkeep of supercomputers you may use, training in specialist analysis software, or travelling to conferences. The exact fee will depend on your specific research topic; however, it should be minimal for most mathematic projects.

What Specific Funding Opportunities Are There for A PhD in Mathematics?

Alongside the usual funding opportunities available to all PhD Research students such as doctoral loans, departmental scholarships, there are a few other sources of funding available to math PhD students. Examples of these include:

You can find more information on these funding sources here: DiscoverPhDs funding guide .

What Specific Skills Do You Gain from Doing a PhD in Mathematics?

A doctorate in Mathematics not only demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning, but it also provides you with highly marketable skills. Besides subject-specific skills, you’ll also gain many transferable skills which will prove useful in almost all industries. A sample of these skills is listed below.

• Logical ability to consider and analyse complex issues,
• Commitment and persistence towards reaching research goals,
• Outstanding verbal and written skills,
• Strong attention to detail,
• The ability to liaise with others from unique disciple backgrounds and work as part of a team
• Holistic deduction and reasoning skills,
• Forming and explaining mathematical and logical solutions to a wide range of real-world problems,
• Exceptional numeracy skills.

What Jobs Can You Get with A Maths PhD?

One of the greatest benefits maths PostDocs will have is the ability to pursue a wide range of career paths. This is because all sciences are built on core principles which, to varying extents, are supported by the core principles of mathematics. As a result, it’s not uncommon to ask students what path they intend to follow after completing their degree and receive entirely different answers. Although not extensive by any means, the most common career paths Math PostDocs take are listed below:

• Academia – Many individuals teach undergraduate students at the university they studied at or ones they gained ties to during their research. This path is usually the preferred among students who want to continue focusing on mathematical theories and concepts as part of their career.
• Postdoctoral Researcher – Others continue researching with their University or with an independent organisation. This can be a popular path because of the opportunities it provides in collaborative working, supervising others, undertaking research and attending conferences etc.
• Finance – Because of their deepened analytical skills, it’s no surprise that many PostDocs choose a career in finance. This involves working for some of the most significant players in the financial district in prime locations including London, Frankfurt and Hong Kong. Specific job titles can include Actuarial, Investment Analyst or Risk Modeller.
• Computer Programming – Some students whose research involves computational mathematics launch their career as a computer programmer. Due to their background, they’ll typically work on specialised projects which require high levels of understanding on the problem at hand. For example, they may work with physicists and biomedical engineers to develop a software package that supports their more complex research.
• Data Analyst – Those who enjoy number crunching and developing complex models often go into data analytics. This can involve various niches such as forecasting or optimisation, across various fields such as marketing and weather.

What Are Some of The Typical Employers Who Hire Maths PostDocs?

As mentioned above, there’s a high demand for skilled mathematicians and statisticians across a broad range of sectors. Some typical employers are:

• Education – All UK and international universities
• Governments – STFC and Department for Transport
• Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals – NHS, GSK, Pfizer
• Finance & Banking – e.g. Barclays Capital, PwC and J. P. Morgan
• Computing – IBM, Microsoft and Facebook
• Engineering – Boeing, Shell and Dyson

The above is only a small selection of employers. In reality, mathematic PostDocs can work in almost any industry, assuming the role is numerical-based or data-driven.

How Much Can You Earn with A PhD in Maths?

As a mathematics PhD PostDoc, your earning potential will mostly depend on your chosen career path. Due to the wide range of options, it’s impossible to provide an arbitrary value for the typical salary you can expect.

However, if you pursue one of the below paths or enter their respective industry, you can roughly expect to earn [3] :

Academic Lecturer

• Approximately £30,000 – £35,000 starting salary
• Approximately £40,000 with a few years experience
• Approximately £45,000 – £55,000 with 10 years experience
• Approximately £60,000 and over with significant experience and a leadership role. Certain academic positions can earn over £80,000 depending on the management duties.

Actuary or Finance

• Approximately £35,000 starting salary
• Approximately £45,000 – £55,000 with a few years experience
• Approximately £70,000 and over with 10 years experience
• Approximately £180,000 and above with significant experience and a leadership role.

Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

• Approximately £28,000 starting salary
• Approximately £35,000 – £40,000 with a few years experience
• Approximately £60,000 and over with 10 years experience

Data Analyst

• Approximately £45,000 – £50,000 with a few years experience
• Approximately £90,000 and above with significant experience and a leadership role.

Again, we stress that the above are indicative values only. Actual salaries will depend on the specific organisation and position and responsibilities of the individual.

Facts and Statistics About Maths PhD Holders

The below chart provides useful insight into the destination of Math PostDocs after completing their PhD. The most popular career paths from other of highest to lowest is education, information and communication, finance and scientific research, manufacturing and government.

Note: The above chart is based on ‘UK Higher Education Leavers’ data [2] between 2012/13 and 2016/17 and contains a data size of 200 PostDocs. The data was obtained from the Higher Education Statistics Agency ( HESA ).

Which Noteworthy People Hold a PhD in Maths?

Alan turing.

Alan Turing was a British Mathematician, WW2 code-breaker and arguably the father of computer science. Alongside his lengthy list of achievements, Turning achieved a PhD in Mathematics at Princeton University, New Jersey. His thesis titled ‘Systems of Logic Based on Ordinals’ focused on the concepts of ordinal logic and relative computing; you can read it online here . To this day, Turning pioneering works continues to play a fundamental role in shaping the development of artificial intelligence (AI).

Ruth Lawrence

Ruth Lawrence is a famous British–Israeli Mathematician well known within the academic community. Lawrence earned her PhD in Mathematics from Oxford University at the young age of 17! Her work focused on algebraic topology and knot theory; you can read her interesting collection of research papers here . Among her many contributions to Maths, her most notable include the representation of the braid groups, more formally known as Lawrence–Krammer representations.

Emmy Noether

Emmy Noether was a German mathematician who received her PhD from the University of Erlangen, Germany. Her research has significantly contributed to both abstract algebra and theoretical physics. Additionally, she proved a groundbreaking theorem important to Albert Einstein’s general theory of relativity. In doing so, her theorem, Noether’s theorem , is regarded as one of the most influential developments in physics.

Other Useful Resources

Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) – IMA is the UK’s professional body for mathematicians. It contains a wide range of useful information, from the benefits of further education in Maths to details on grants and upcoming events.

Maths Careers – Math Careers is a site associated with IMA that provides a wide range of advice to mathematicians of all ages. It has a section dedicated to undergraduates and graduates and contains a handful of information about progressing into research.

Resources for Graduate Students – Produced by Dr Mak Tomford, this webpage contains an extensive collection of detailed advice for Mathematic PhD students. Although the site uses US terminology in places, don’t let that put you off as this resource will prove incredibly helpful in both applying to and undertaking your PhD.

Student Interviews – Still wondering whether a PhD is for you? If so, our collection of PhD interviews would be a great place to get an insider perspective. We’ve interviewed a wide range of PhD students across the UK to find out what doing a PhD is like, how it’s helped them and what advice they have for other prospective students who may be thinking of applying to one. You can read our insightful collection of interviews here .

[1] Universities used to determine the typical (median) and range of entry requirements and tuition fees for 2020/21 Mathematics PhD positions.

• http://www.lse.ac.uk/study-at-lse/Graduate/Degree-programmes-2020/MPhilPhD-Mathematics
• https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/courses/dphil-mathematics?wssl=1
• https://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/mapmpdpms
• https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate/research-degrees/mathematics-mphil-phd
• http://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/2020/sci/phd-mathematics/
• https://www.surrey.ac.uk/postgraduate/mathematics-phd
• https://www.maths.ed.ac.uk/school-of-mathematics/studying-here/pgr/phd-application
• https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/postgraduate-courses/mathematics-phd/
• https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/phd/degrees/mathematics-phd
• https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/programmes/list/05325/phd-pure-mathematics/
• https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/courses-2020/mathematicsphd/
• https://www.exeter.ac.uk/pg-research/degrees/mathematics/

[2] Higher Education Leavers Statistics: UK, 2016/17 – Outcomes by subject studied – https://www.hesa.ac.uk/news/28-06-2018/sfr250-higher-education-leaver-statistics-subjects

[3] Typical salaries have been extracted from a combination of the below resources. It should be noted that although every effort has been made to keep the reported salaries as relevant to Math PostDocs as possible (i.e. filtering for positions which specify a PhD qualification as one of their requirements/preferences), small inaccuracies may exist due to data availability.

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PhD Program

More information and a full list of requirements for the PhD program in Mathematics can be found in the University Bulletin .

During their first year in the program, students typically engage in coursework and seminars which prepare them for the  Qualifying Examinations .  Currently, these two exams test the student’s breadth of knowledge in algebra and real analysis. 

Starting in Autumn 2023, students will choose 2 out of 4 qualifying exam topics: 

• real analysis
• geometry and topology
• applied mathematics

Course Requirements for students starting prior to Autumn 2023

To qualify for candidacy, the student must have successfully completed 27 units of Math graduate courses numbered between 200 and 297.

Within the 27 units, students must satisfactorily complete a course sequence. This can be fulfilled in one of the following ways:

• Math 215A, B, & C: Algebraic Topology, Differential Topology, and Differential Geometry
• Math 216A, B, & C: Introduction to Algebraic Geometry
• Math 230A, B, & C: Theory of Probability
• 3 quarter course sequence in a single subject approved in advance by the Director of Graduate Studies.

Course Requirements for students starting in Autumn 2023 and later

To qualify for candidacy, the student must have successfully completed 27 units of Math graduate courses numbered between 200 and 297. The course sequence requirement is discontinued for students starting in Autumn 2023 and later.

By the end of Spring Quarter of their second year in the program, students must have a dissertation advisor and apply for Candidacy.

During their third year, students will take their Area Examination , which must be completed by the end of Winter Quarter. This exam assesses the student’s breadth of knowledge in their particular area of research. The Area Examination is also used as an opportunity for the student to present their committee with a summary of research conducted to date as well as a detailed plan for the remaining research.

Years 4&5

Typically during the latter part of the fourth or early part of the fifth year of study, students are expected to finish their dissertation research. At this time, students defend their dissertation as they sit for their University Oral Examination. Following the dissertation defense, students take a short time to make final revisions to their actual papers and submit the dissertation to their reading committee for final approval.

Throughout the PhD Program

All students continue through each year of the program serving some form of Assistantship: Course, Teaching or Research, unless they have funding from outside the department.

Our graduate students are very active as both leaders and participants in seminars and colloquia in their chosen areas of interest.

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Top 10 Best PhD in Mathematics Programs

A PhD in mathematics is an invaluable qualification in many sectors, but particularly academia. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mathematicians and statisticians will see a 33% growth in jobs  from 2020 to 2030, especially with the growing need for data and cybersecurity  professionals.

Mathematics PhD programs equip you with the advanced skills and knowledge you need to progress to the highest levels of the field.

Table of Contents

Best PhD in Mathematics Programs

Stanford university, school of humanities & sciences.

Ph.D. in Mathematics

Stanford is a renowned Ivy League university known for its high-quality programs in several areas, including mathematics. Its faculty includes eminent figures in the field, and the school features a dedicated mathematics research center on campus. Students must pass two exams, one in algebra and the other in real analysis, by the second year to remain in the program. Progressing students are fully funded for five years.

• Courses : Multivariable calculus, linear algebra, and applied matrix theory.
• Duration : 5 years
• Delivery : On-campus
• Tuition : Refer tuition page
• Financial aid : Teaching/research assistantships and fellowships
• Acceptance rate: 5.2%
• Location : Stanford, California

Harvard University, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Harvard’s Department of Mathematics is one of the world’s most acclaimed centers for research and education in pure mathematics. You’ll need to complete four courses for each term of your PhD, though there are no compulsory courses. As one of the most impressive mathematics doctoral programs, this PhD emphasizes the love of the subject for its own sake, curiosity, creative ability, and the research process.

• Courses : Advanced real analysis, commutative algebra, and geometry & complexity theory.
• Credits : 16 half-courses
• Duration : 2-5 years
• Financial aid : Grants and fellowships
• Acceptance rate: 5%
• Location : Cambridge, Massachusetts

Brown University, Graduate School

Brown University is known for its flexible yet rigorous approach to education that gives students the intellectual freedom to apply creative thinking to their work. Its PhD in Math program encourages close student-faculty relationships and collaboration. This program doesn’t ask for GRE scores or foreign language courses for international students.

• Courses : Complex functions, topology, and algebraic geometry.
• Tuition : $7,835 per course
• Financial aid : Fellowships and teaching assistantships
• Acceptance rate:  7.7%
• Location : Providence, Rhode Island

The University of Pennsylvania, School of Arts & Sciences

UPenn is a world-renowned university that boasts the first medical school in the country. It has a very active mathematics department committed to serious research, and its faculty includes recognized figures from the mathematics community. In its doctorate in mathematics program, students can take courses from other departments in the university. Full-tuition scholarships for all five years of the program are available.

• Courses: Geometry-topology, mathematical physics, and combinatorics.
• Duration: 5 years
• Delivery: On-campus
• Tuition: Full funding
• Financial aid: Fellowships, teaching assistantships, and scholarships.
• Acceptance rate: 9%
• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Rochester Institute of Technology, School of Mathematical Sciences

Ph.D. Mathematical Modeling

The School of Mathematical Sciences at RIT is world-renowned for mathematical and statistical research. It focuses on creative approaches to solving real-world problems using mathematical and statistical knowledge. Its doctorate degree in mathematics is the country’s first  mathematical modeling PhD  and offers five concentrations, including Biomedical mathematics, applied inverse problems, and dynamical systems & fluid dynamics.

• Courses : Numerical analysis, mathematical modeling, and high-performance computing for mathematical modeling.
• Credits : 60 minimum
• Duration : 7 years maximum
• Financial aid : Scholarships and graduate assistantships
• Acceptance rate : 73.9%
• Location : Rochester, New York

Princeton University, The Graduate School

Ph.D. Applied and Computational Math

Princeton University is one of the world’s most famous universities, scoring the top ranking in the US News & World Report’s Best Universities list for 2022 . Its PhD program in Applied and Computational Math is flexible with few central requirements: students can work with their advisers to build their own program.

• Courses : Differential equations, numerical algorithms, and applied dynamical systems.
• Credits : 12 hours/semester
• Duration : 4 years
• Tuition : $56,010 per year
• Financial aid : Fellowships, research/teaching assistantships, loans, grants, and federal work-study.
• Acceptance rate : 5.6%
• Location : Princeton, New Jersey

The University of Arizona, Department of Mathematics

Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics

The University of Arizona is well-known for its contributions to scientific research. Its PhD in Applied Mathematics is an interdisciplinary program that emphasizes mathematical modeling and computer simulation. The teaching staff is drawn from various disciplines, including engineering, computing, social, and biological sciences.

• Courses : Real analysis, algebra, and topology-geometry.
• Tuition : $13,400 per year
• Financial aid : Teaching assistantships, research assistantships, fellowships, and grants.
• Acceptance rate:  85%
• Location : Tucson, Arizona

Portland State University, Fariborz Maseeh Department of Mathematics &         Statistics

Ph.D. Mathematical Sciences

PSU’s innovative Mathematics Department has a joint research project  with Ohio University to make the theoretical science of math more relevant and practical. Its PhD program focuses on mathematics and statistics, with separate primary and secondary-level courses in both subjects.

• Courses : Mathematics, statistics, and mathematical/statistical literature problems.
• Credits : 81 minimum
• Tuition : $509 per credit
• Financial aid : Scholarships, fellowships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate : 95.2%
• Location : Portland, Oregon

Rice University, Wiess School of Natural Sciences

Ph.D. in Computational and Applied Mathematics

Rice University works closely with many prominent research, education, and science institutions in Houston, translating into exciting student opportunities. Its Computational and Applied Mathematics department only accepts 5-9 students into its PhD program, assuring a low student-faculty ratio. The program allows students to conduct high-impact research with the help of professors from diverse fields such as energy, mathematical biology, healthcare delivery, and sustainability.

• Courses : Advanced numerical analysis, computational science , and modeling mathematical physics.
• Duration : 4-6 years
• Tuition : $2,893 per credit
• Financial aid : Scholarships, fellowships, teaching assistantships, and loans.
• Acceptance rate : 10.9%
• Location : Houston, Texas

Florida Institute of Technology

Applied Mathematics, Ph.D.

Florida Institute of Technology is the only independent technological university in the Southeast. It is a private institution encouraging a hands-on approach to students’ learning. This PhD is one of the only 30 Applied Mathematics programs in the country and accommodates a wide range of specializations, including non-linear analysis, scientific computing, and optimization. The highly flexible program also allows students to choose their research areas.

• Courses : Partial differential equations, real analysis, and numerical methods for partial differential equations.
• Credits : 72 post-bachelor’s or 42 post-master’s
• Tuition : $1,241 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, awards, loans, graduate assistantships, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 70.4%
• Location : Melbourne, Florida

What Do You Need to Get a PhD in Mathematics?

Exact entry requirements vary from program to program, but often you’ll need a master’s in a related field as a basic prerequisite. Some programs will accept graduates with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or a related subject, though you’ll probably need to complete extra credit hours compared to students with a master’s.

You’ll need to submit an application, typically involving a research proposal and/or personal statement , academic resume , and letters of recommendation . You may need to present GRE  scores , but these aren’t required for every program.

Equally, the requirements to earn your doctorate will depend on the specific program, though there are several commonalities. Most PhD in mathematics programs include:

• Qualifying examinations and a final exam
• Teaching hours
• A research dissertation

If you want to prepare thoroughly for a math PhD program, it can be helpful to:

• Study qualifying exam subjects  such as real analysis and algebra
• Working with proof of math problems
• Participate in u ndergraduate research experience programs
• Build your network  and identify mentors

What to Consider When Choosing a Mathematics PhD Program

With so many strong math PhD programs on offer, it can be hard to know which is the right program for you.

While this is a very individual decision, here are some key factors to consider:

• Courses, specializations, and concentrations
• Funding options
• School and faculty reputation
• Mode of delivery: online, on-campus, or hybrid

Why Get a Doctorate in Mathematics?

Today’s world desperately needs data in every field to improve and grow. So, mathematics is now highly relevant across many fields. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates impressive job growth of 33%  for mathematicians and statisticians from 2020 to 2030.

A PhD in mathematics equips you with a range of skills, including critical and analytical evaluation, logical reasoning, mathematical solutions for real-life issues, verbal and written communication skills, and dedication.

According to the American Mathematical Society , the number of math PhD graduates has been increasing steadily over the last two decades, and is currently around 2,000 a year. In total, there have been more than 30,000 PhD graduates in mathematics over the last two decades.

Common Jobs for Doctor of Mathematics Grads

With a doctorate in mathematics, you may work in various roles, including:

• Assistant Professor ( $61,252  average annual salary)
• Professor ( $88,951 )
• Data Scientist ( $97,358 )
• Mathematician ( $70,920 )
• Postdoctoral Research Associate ( $51,968 )

Key Takeaways

The best PhD mathematics programs are offered by renowned universities across the country, including the most prestigious schools. While some are expensive, various funding options and even fully-funded Mathematics doctorate programs offer some relief.

If you have a real taste for the subject, a PhD in mathematics can take your career to unimaginable heights. It will also let you build high-level skills and in-depth knowledge that could make you a leader in your field.

If you’ve found this guide useful, take a look at our posts on the best online Master’s in Mathematics programs , the top online PhD programs , and the highest-paying PhDs .

PhD in Mathematics FAQs

How long is a phd in mathematics.

A PhD in Mathematics may take 3-7 years to complete, depending on program requirements. If you have a master’s degree , the program will likely be shorter in duration.

How Much Does a Math PhD Cost?

A math PhD costs anywhere from $13,000 to $45,000 per year, including tuition and other fees, based on various factors. You can also find fully funded PhD programs in Math, including from some of the most prestigious schools in the country.

Are Math PhDs in Demand?

A PhD in math is a qualification that has always had a demand in the academic world. With the increasing importance of mathematical principles and concepts in emerging technologies and disciplines, we’re also seeing a range of opportunities for mathematicians in other fields.

Is a PhD in Mathematics Difficult?

Mathematics is an abstract and mostly theoretical subject. Therefore, it’s best to have a certain degree of flair, or at least interest in the subject, otherwise, you may struggle. However, anyone can excel in a math PhD program with a little dedication and hard work.

What Do I Need to be Eligible for a PhD in Mathematics?

At a minimum, you’ll need a bachelor’s in math or another STEM field. However, some programs require a master’s or at least an honors undergraduate qualification.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Ph.D. Program in Mathematics

Degree requirements.

A candidate for the Ph.D. degree in mathematics must fulfill a number of different departmental requirements.

NYU Shanghai Ph.D. Track

The Ph.D. program also offers students the opportunity to pursue their study and research with Mathematics faculty based at NYU Shanghai. With this opportunity, students generally complete their coursework in New York City before moving full-time to Shanghai for their dissertation research. For more information, please visit the  NYU Shanghai Ph.D. page .

Sample course schedules (Years 1 and 2) for students with a primary interest in:

Applied Math (Math Biology, Scientific Computing, Physical Applied Math, etc.)

Additional information for students interested in studying applied math is available here .

Probability

PDE/Analysis

The Written Comprehensive Examination

The examination tests the basic knowledge required for any serious mathematical study. It consists of the three following sections: Advanced Calculus, Complex Variables, and Linear Algebra. The examination is given on three consecutive days, twice a year, in early September and early January. Each section is allotted three hours and is written at the level of a good undergraduate course. Samples of previous examinations are available in the departmental office. Cooperative preparation is encouraged, as it is for all examinations. In the fall term, the Department offers a workshop, taught by an advanced Teaching Assistant, to help students prepare for the written examinations.

Entering students with a solid preparation are encouraged to consider taking the examination in their first year of full-time study. All students must take the examinations in order to be allowed to register for coursework beyond 36 points of credit; it is recommended that students attempt to take the examinations well before this deadline. Graduate Assistants are required to take the examinations during their first year of study.

For further details, consult the page on the written comprehensive exams .

The Oral Preliminary Examination

This examination is usually (but not invariably) taken after two years of full-time study. The purpose of the examination is to determine if the candidate has acquired sufficient mathematical knowledge and maturity to commence a dissertation. The phrase "mathematical knowledge" is intended to convey rather broad acquaintance with the basic facts of mathematical life, with emphasis on a good understanding of the simplest interesting examples. In particular, highly technical or abstract material is inappropriate, as is the rote reproduction of information. What the examiners look for is something a little different and less easy to quantify. It is conveyed in part by the word "maturity." This means some idea of how mathematics hangs together; the ability to think a little on one's feet; some appreciation of what is natural and important, and what is artificial. The point is that the ability to do successful research depends on more than formal learning, and it is part of the examiners' task to assess these less tangible aspects of the candidate's preparation.

The orals are comprised of a general section and a special section, each lasting one hour, and are conducted by two different panels of three faculty members. The examination takes place three times a year: fall, mid-winter and late spring. Cooperative preparation of often helpful and is encouraged. The general section consists of five topics, one of which may be chosen freely. The other four topics are determined by field of interest, but often turn out to be standard: complex variables, real variables, ordinary differential equations, and partial differential equations. Here, the level of knowledge that is expected is equivalent to that of a one or two term course of the kind Courant normally presents. A brochure containing the most common questions on the general oral examination, edited by Courant students, is available at the Department Office.

The special section is usually devoted to a single topic at a more advanced level and extent of knowledge. The precise content is negotiated with the candidate's faculty advisor. Normally, the chosen topic will have a direct bearing on the candidate's Ph.D. dissertation.

All students must take the oral examinations in order to be allowed to register for coursework beyond 60 points of credit. It is recommended that students attempt the examinations well before this deadline.

The Dissertation Defense

The oral defense is the final examination on the student's dissertation. The defense is conducted by a panel of five faculty members (including the student's advisor) and generally lasts one to two hours. The candidate presents his/her work to a mixed audience, some expert in the student's topic, some not. Often, this presentation is followed by a question-and-answer period and mutual discussion of related material and directions for future work.

Summer Internships and Employment

The Department encourages Ph.D. students at any stage of their studies, including the very early stage, to seek summer employment opportunities at various government and industry facilities. In the past few years, Courant students have taken summer internships at the National Institute of Health, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and NASA, as well as Wall Street firms. Such opportunities can greatly expand students' understanding of the mathematical sciences, offer them possible areas of interest for thesis research, and enhance their career options. The Director of Graduate Studies and members of the faculty (and in particular the students' academic advisors) can assist students in finding appropriate summer employment.

Mentoring and Grievance Policy

For detailed information, consult the page on the Mentoring and Grievance Policy .

Visiting Doctoral Students

Information about spending a term at the Courant Institute's Department of Mathematics as a visiting doctoral student is available on the Visitor Programs  page.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Program synopsis and training.

 The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in mathematics is the highest degree offered by our program. Graduates will have demonstrated their ability to conduct independent scientific research and contribute new mathematical knowledge and scholarship in their area of specialization. They will be well-supported and well prepared for research and faculty positions at academic institutions anywhere in the world. Owing to their independence, analytic abilities, and proven tenacity, our PhD graduates are also sought after by private and government employers.

Our PhD program offers two tracks, one for Theoretical Mathematics and one for Applied Mathematics . The tracks differ only in the course and  qualifying requirements during the first two years. Applicants are required to decide on one of the tracks and applications will be evaluated subject to respective criteria described below.

Once students have passed their Qualifying Requirements, the two tracks merge and there is no distinction in later examinations and research opportunities. In particular, the candidacy exam for both tracks consists of a research proposal, the graduate faculty available for advising is the same, and the final degree and thesis defense are independent of the initially chosen track.

Expected Preparations for Admission

Competitive applicants to the theoretical track are expected to have strong foundations in Real Analysis and Abstract Algebra, equivalent to our Math 5201 - 5202  and Math 5111 - 5112 sequences.

Expected preparations for the applied track include the equivalents of a rigorous Real Analysis course (such as Math 5201 ), a strong background in Linear Algebra, as well as an introductory course in Scientific Computing.

Besides these basic requirements, competitive applicants in either track submit evidence for a broad formation in mathematics at the upper-division or beginning graduate level. Relevant coursework in other mathematical or quantitative sciences may also be considered, especially for the applied track.

Prior research experiences are not required for either track, and we routinely admit students without significant research background. Nevertheless, applicants are encouraged to include accounts of research and independent project endeavors as well as letters of supervising mentors in order to be more competitive for fellowship considerations. The research component is likely to have greater weight in applications to the applied track.

These prepared documents serve to provide our admission committee with a narrative overview of the applicant's mathematical trajectory. Their primary focus should, therefore, be to enumerate and describe any evidence of mathematical ability and mathematical promise. The information included in the documents should be well-organized, comprehensive, informative, specific, and relevant. This will help our committee to properly and efficiently evaluate the high number of applications we receive each year.

Our Graduate Recruitment Committee will generally  not  consider GRE test scores for this Autumn 2024 admissions. If you have already taken the test, please do not self-report the scores to us. In exceptional circumstances students may have the option to report unofficially. 

International students whose native language is not English and are not exempt should score at least a 20 on the Speaking portion of the TOEFL or at least 6.5 on the IELTS Speaking portion.  We also recommend an overall score of at least 95 on TOEFL or at least 7.0 on IELTS.  For a list of exempt countries, please see  https://gpadmissions.osu.edu/intl/additional-requirements-to-apply.html

Qualifying Requirements by Track

The qualifying requirements for the theoretical track are fulfilled by passing our Abstract Algebra course sequence  ( Math 6111 , Math 6112 ) and  our Real Analysis course sequence ( Math 6211 , Math 6212 ), each with at least an A-, or  by passing a respective examination.

The qualifying requirements for the applied track combine a mandatory Scientific Computing course ( Math 6601 ), one of the algebra or analysis courses, and three additional courses chosen from  Math 6602 , Math 6411 ,  Math 6451 , and the courses comprising the algebra and analysis sequences.

The breadth requirements in the applied track are more flexible than in the theoretical track, but also include a mandatory graduate course in a non-math STEM department from an approved list. 

You can find more information about our PhD program requirement here .

Opportunities & Outcomes

The research opportunities and academic outcomes of our doctoral program are described in detail in the Graduate Program Prospectus  [pdf]. 

Our department has about 80 active graduate faculty on the Columbus and regional campuses. Virtually every area of mathematics is represented in our program, with a sampling displayed below.

• Commutative, Non-commutative, & Quantum Algebra
• Analytic, Algebraic, Computational Number Theory
• Algebraic Geometry, Tropical Geometry
• Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Physics
• Real and Complex Analysis
• Functional Analysis, Operator Algebras
• Combinatorics and Graph Theory
• Differential Geometry
• Dynamical Systems and Ergodic Theory
• Financial and Actuarial Mathematics
• Logic and Foundations
• Probability Theory, Statistical Mechanics
• Mathematical Biology
• Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations
• Representation theory
• Scientific Computing
• Topology, Topological Data Analysis

See also our  Applied Mathematics Topics List  [pdf].

Our program offers many support opportunities without teaching duties as well, to allow more time for scientific endeavors. These opportunities include university fellowships, external funding, and departmental fellowships and special assignments. See the  Financial Support  page for more details.

The median time to degree completion in our program is below six years but also varies significantly among our students, with as little as four years for students entering with substantial prior preparations. Funding is guaranteed for six years and can be extended to seven years with advisor support and the permission of the Graduate Studies Committee.  

Most of our graduates continue their careers in academia. Post-doctoral placements in the last two years include, for example, UCLA, Stanford, ETH-Zürich, Brown University, University of Michigan, Northwestern University, University of Vienna, EPF Lausanne, Free University at Berlin, Purdue University, and University of Utah. In recent years our graduates also went to Princeton University, IAS, University of Chicago, Yale University, University of Michigan, Cal-Tech, Northwestern University, University of Texas, Duke University, SUNY Stony Brook, Purdue University, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, and Indiana University. Recent non-academic placements include Google, Facebook, Amazon, NSA, and prestigious financial institutions.

Students also have access to training and networking opportunities that prepare them better for careers in private industry and teaching - for example, through the Erdős Institute  - and are regularly offered highly competitive positions in the industry. 

Nearly half of the graduate population consists of domestic students coming from both larger universities and smaller liberal arts colleges with a solid math curriculum. And as a program group member of the National Math Alliance , we are dedicated to enhancing diversity in our program and the scientific community. The International students in our program come from all parts of the world with a wide variety of educational backgrounds.

Prospective students:  [email protected]

Graduate Office Department of Mathematics The Ohio State University 231 W 18th Avenue ( MA 102 ) Columbus, Ohio 43210 United States of America                

Phone: (614) 292-6274 Fax: (614) 292-1479

[pdf] - Some links on this page are to .pdf files. If you need these files in a more accessible format, please email  [email protected] . PDF files require the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader software to open them. If you do not have Reader, you may use the following link to Adobe to download it for free at:  Adobe Acrobat Reader .

Department of Mathematics

Requirements for the ph.d. degree.

In order to qualify for the Mathematics Ph.D., all students are required to:

• Complete eight term courses at the graduate level, at least two with Honors grades.
• Pass qualifying examinations on their general mathematical knowledge;
• Submit a dissertation prospectus;
• Participate in the instruction of undergraduates ;
• Be in residence for at least three years;
• Complete a dissertation that clearly advances understanding of the subject it considers.

All students must also complete any other  Graduate School of Arts and Sciences degree requirements  as they appear in the Programs and Policies bulletin.

The normal time for completion of the Ph.D. program is five to six years. Requirement (1) normally includes basic courses in algebra, analysis, and topology.  Students typically complete the eight-course requirement by the end of their third year.  The Honors grades of (1) must be achieved within the first two years.  A sequence of three qualifying examinations (algebra and number theory, real and complex analysis, topology) is offered each term.  All qualifying examinations must be passed by the end of the second year.  There is no limit to the number of times that students can take the exams, and so they are encouraged to take them as soon as possible.

The dissertation prospectus should be submitted during the third year. 

The thesis is expected to be independent work, done under the guidance of an adviser. This adviser should be contacted not long after the student passes the qualifying examinations. A student is admitted to candidacy after completing requirements (1)–(5) and obtaining an adviser.

In addition to all other requirements, students must successfully complete MATH 991a, Ethical Conduct of Research, prior to the end of their first year of study. This requirement must be met prior to registering for a second year of study.

Master’s Degrees :

The M.Phil. and M.S. degrees are conferred only en route to the Ph.D.; there is no separate master’s program in Mathematics.

M.Phil.   Please refer to the Graduate School Degree Requirements

M.S.   A student must complete six term courses with at least one Honors grade, perform adequately on the general qualifying examination, and be in residence at least one year.

Graduate Program

Our graduate program is unique from the other top mathematics institutions in the U.S. in that it emphasizes, from the start, independent research. Each year, we have extremely motivated and talented students among our new Ph.D. candidates who, we are proud to say, will become the next generation of leading researchers in their fields. While we urge independent work and research, there exists a real sense of camaraderie among our graduate students. As a result, the atmosphere created is one of excitement and stimulation as well as of mentoring and support. Furthermore, there exists a strong scholarly relationship between the Math Department and the Institute for Advanced Study, located just a short distance from campus, where students can make contact with members there as well as attend the IAS seminar series.  Our program has minimal requirements and maximal research and educational opportunities. We offer a broad variety of advanced research topics courses as well as more introductory level courses in algebra, analysis, and geometry, which help first-year students strengthen their mathematical background and get involved with faculty through basic course work. In addition to the courses, there are several informal seminars specifically geared toward graduate students: (1) Colloquium Lunch Talk, where experts who have been invited to present at the Department Colloquium give introductory talks, which allows graduate students to understand the afternoon colloquium more easily; (2) Graduate Student Seminar (GSS), which is organized and presented by graduate students for graduate students, creating a vibrant mathematical interaction among them; and, (3) What’s Happening in Fine Hall (WHIFH) seminar where faculty give talks in their own research areas specifically geared towards graduate students. Working or reading seminars in various research fields are also organized by graduate students each semester. First-year students are set on the fast track of research by choosing two advanced topics of research, beyond having a strong knowledge of three more general subjects: algebra, and real and complex analysis, as part of the required General Examination. It is the hope that one, or both, of the advanced topics will lead to the further discovery of a thesis problem. Students are expected to write a thesis in four years but will be provided an additional year to complete their work if deemed necessary. Most of our Ph.D.'s are successfully launched into academic positions at premier mathematical institutions as well as in industry .

Chenyang Xu

Jill leclair.

Mathematical Modeling Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Degree

Request Info about graduate study Visit Apply

The mathematical modeling Ph.D. enables you to develop mathematical models to investigate, analyze, predict, and solve the behaviors of a range of fields from medicine, engineering, and business to physics and science.

STEM-OPT Visa Eligible

Overview for Mathematical Modeling Ph.D.

Mathematical modeling is the process of developing mathematical descriptions, or models, of real-world systems. These models can be linear or nonlinear, discrete or continuous, deterministic or stochastic, and static or dynamic, and they enable investigating, analyzing, and predicting the behavior of systems in a wide variety of fields. Through extensive study and research, graduates of the mathematical modeling Ph.D. will have the expertise not only to use the tools of mathematical modeling in various application settings, but also to contribute in creative and innovative ways to the solution of complex interdisciplinary problems and to communicate effectively with domain experts in various fields.

Plan of Study

The degree requires at least 60 credit hours of course work and research. The curriculum consists of three required core courses, three required concentration foundation courses, a course in scientific computing and high-performance computing (HPC), three elective courses focused on the student’s chosen research concentration, and a doctoral dissertation. Elective courses are available from within the School of Mathematics and Statistics as well as from other graduate programs at RIT, which can provide application-specific courses of interest for particular research projects. A minimum of 30 credits hours of course work is required. In addition to courses, at least 30 credit hours of research, including the Graduate Research Seminar, and an interdisciplinary internship outside of RIT are required.

Students develop a plan of study in consultation with an application domain advisory committee. This committee consists of the program director, one of the concentration leads, and an expert from an application domain related to the student’s research interest. The committee ensures that all students have a roadmap for completing their degree based on their background and research interests. The plan of study may be revised as needed. Learn more about our mathematical modeling doctoral students and view a selection of mathematical modeling seminars hosted by the department.

Qualifying Examinations

All students must pass two qualifying examinations to determine whether they have sufficient knowledge of modeling principles, mathematics, and computational methods to conduct doctoral research. Students must pass the examinations in order to continue in the Ph.D. program.

The first exam is based on the Numerical Analysis I (MATH-602) and Mathematical Modeling I, II (MATH-622, 722). The second exam is based on the student's concentration foundation courses and additional material deemed appropriate by the committee and consists of a short research project.

Dissertation Research Advisor and Committee

A dissertation research advisor is selected from the program faculty based on the student's research interests, faculty research interest, and discussions with the program director. Once a student has chosen a dissertation advisor, the student, in consultation with the advisor, forms a dissertation committee consisting of at least four members, including the dissertation advisor. The committee includes the dissertation advisor, one other member of the mathematical modeling program faculty, and an external chair appointed by the dean of graduate education. The external chair must be a tenured member of the RIT faculty who is not a current member of the mathematical modeling program faculty. The fourth committee member must not be a member of the RIT faculty and may be a professional affiliated with industry or with another institution; the program director must approve this committee member.

The main duties of the dissertation committee are administering both the candidacy exam and final dissertation defense. In addition, the dissertation committee assists students in planning and conducting their dissertation research and provides guidance during the writing of the dissertation.

Admission to Candidacy

When a student has developed an in-depth understanding of their dissertation research topic, the dissertation committee administers an examination to determine if the student will be admitted to candidacy for the doctoral degree. The purpose of the examination is to ensure that the student has the necessary background knowledge, command of the problem, and intellectual maturity to carry out the specific doctoral-level research project. The examination may include a review of the literature, preliminary research results, and proposed research directions for the completed dissertation. Requirements for the candidacy exam include both a written dissertation proposal and the presentation of an oral defense of the proposal. This examination must be completed at least one year before the student can graduate.

Dissertation Defense and Final Examination

The dissertation defense and final examination may be scheduled after the dissertation has been written and distributed to the dissertation committee and the committee has consented to administer the final examination. Copies of the dissertation must be distributed to all members of the dissertation committee at least four weeks prior to the final examination. The dissertation defense consists of an oral presentation of the dissertation research, which is open to the public. This public presentation must be scheduled and publicly advertised at least four weeks prior to the examination. After the presentation, questions will be fielded from the attending audience and the final examination, which consists of a private questioning of the candidate by the dissertation committee, will ensue. After the questioning, the dissertation committee immediately deliberates and thereafter notifies the candidate and the mathematical modeling graduate director of the result of the examination.

All students in the program must spend at least two consecutive semesters (summer excluded) as resident full-time students to be eligible to receive the doctoral degree.

Maximum Time Limitations

University policy requires that doctoral programs be completed within seven years of the date of the student passing the qualifying exam. All candidates must maintain continuous enrollment during the research phase of the program. Such enrollment is not limited by the maximum number of research credits that apply to the degree.

National Labs Career Fair

Hosted by RIT’s Office of Career Services and Cooperative Education, the National Labs Career Fair is an annual event that brings representatives to campus from the United States’ federally funded research and development labs. These national labs focus on scientific discovery, clean energy development, national security, technology advancements, and more. Students are invited to attend the career fair to network with lab professionals, learn about opportunities, and interview for co-ops, internships, research positions, and full-time employment.

Students are also interested in: Applied and Computational Mathematics MS

The College of Science consistently receives research grant awards from organizations that include the National Science Foundation , National Institutes of Health , and NASA , which provide you with unique opportunities to conduct cutting-edge research with our faculty members.

Faculty in the School of Mathematics and Statistics conducts research on a broad variety of topics including:

• applied inverse problems and optimization
• applied statistics and data analytics
• biomedical mathematics
• discrete mathematics
• dynamical systems and fluid dynamics
• geometry, relativity, and gravitation
• mathematics of earth and environment systems
• multi-messenger and multi-wavelength astrophysics

Learn more by exploring the school’s mathematics research areas .

Michael Cromer

Basca Jadamba

Moumita Das

Carlos Lousto

Matthew Hoffman

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Curriculum for 2023-2024 for Mathematical Modeling Ph.D.

Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements

Mathematical Modeling, Ph.D. degree, typical course sequence

Concentrations, applied inverse problems, biomedical mathematics, discrete mathematics, dynamical systems and fluid dynamics, geometry, relativity and gravitation, admissions and financial aid.

This program is available on-campus only.

Full-time study is 9+ semester credit hours. International students requiring a visa to study at the RIT Rochester campus must study full‑time.

Application Details

To be considered for admission to the Mathematical Modeling Ph.D. program, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

• Complete an online graduate application .
• Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
• Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college.
• A recommended minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent).
• Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Submit a statement of purpose for research which will allow the Admissions Committee to learn the most about you as a prospective researcher.
• Submit two letters of recommendation .
• Entrance exam requirements: None
• Writing samples are optional.
• Submit English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic), if required. Details are below.

English Language Test Scores

International applicants whose native language is not English must submit one of the following official English language test scores. Some international applicants may be considered for an English test requirement waiver .

International students below the minimum requirement may be considered for conditional admission. Each program requires balanced sub-scores when determining an applicant’s need for additional English language courses.

How to Apply   Start or Manage Your Application

Cost and Financial Aid

An RIT graduate degree is an investment with lifelong returns. Ph.D. students typically receive full tuition and an RIT Graduate Assistantship that will consist of a research assistantship (stipend) or a teaching assistantship (salary).

Additional Information

Foundation courses.

Mathematical modeling encompasses a wide variety of scientific disciplines, and candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. If applicants have not taken the expected foundational course work, the program director may require the student to successfully complete foundational courses prior to matriculating into the Ph.D. program. Typical foundation course work includes calculus through multivariable and vector calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, probability and statistics, one course in computer programming, and at least one course in real analysis, numerical analysis, or upper-level discrete mathematics.

Welcome to the Math PhD program at Harvard University and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

Learn more about Harvard’s Math community and our statement on diversity and inclusion.

The Harvard Griffin GSAS Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging offers student affinity groups for graduate students and many other resources.

The Harvard University Office for Gender Equity has dedicated GSAS Title IX resource coordinators who work with and support graduate students.

open. The application deadline is December 15, 2021. -->

The application deadline for fall 2024 admission has passed. Applications for fall 2025 admission will open in September 2024.

For information on admissions and financial support, please visit the Harvard Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

Harvard Griffin GSAS is committed to ensuring that our application fee does not create a financial obstacle. Applicants can determine eligibility for a fee waiver by completing a series of questions in the Application Fee section of the application. Once these questions have been answered, the application system will provide an immediate response regarding fee waiver eligibility.

Advertisement

Eczema may sometimes be caused by eating too much salt

People with eczema have higher levels of sodium in their urine than those without the skin condition, with every additional 1 gram linked to an 11 per cent increase in the risk of a diagnosis

By Clarissa Brincat

5 June 2024

Too much salt is already known to raise blood pressure

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Eating too much salt has been linked to eczema after researchers found people with the skin condition have elevated levels of sodium in their urine. 

More than 200 million people worldwide have eczema, which causes dry, cracked and itchy skin. Common triggers include irritants found in soaps and detergents, as well as environmental or food allergens. Previous research has also linked frequent fast food consumption to an increased risk of severe eczema in children. 

To see if salt may play a role, Katrina Abuabara at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and her colleagues examined urine sample data from more than 215,800 adults in the UK Biobank study, of whom more than 10,800 had eczema.

How to easily satisfy your salt cravings without damaging your health

Could potassium fortification be the answer we're looking for when it comes to battling our unhealthy addiction to salt?

The researchers used a urine sample from each participant to estimate their urinary sodium excretion over 24 hours. About 90 per cent of dietary sodium is later excreted in urine , making the waste product a relatively reliable way of gauging someone’s salt consumption.

Overall, the study participants excreted an estimated 3.01 grams of sodium in their urine over 24 hours, on average. The recommended sodium intake for adults is typically around 2.5 grams per day , equivalent to 6 grams, or one teaspoon, of salt. 

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The researchers found that for every additional gram of sodium that the participants excreted, their odds of having been diagnosed with eczema rose by 11 per cent. Their risk of having eczema at that time also increased by 16 per cent.

The team acknowledges that a single urine sample may not accurately reflect a person’s typical salt intake. But in another part of their study, the researchers surveyed a separate group of more than 13,000 adults in the US about their daily diet , finding further correlations between a high salt intake and eczema. 

Previous research has shown that sodium can activate cells in the immune system , triggering some inflammatory pathways, says Abuabara. People with eczema have an overly active immune response to allergens or irritants, which causes skin inflammation and subsequent symptoms.

Although the study shows an association between high urinary sodium levels and eczema, further work is needed to establish that the former causes the latter, says team member Brenda Chiang , also at UCSF.

Low-carb diets: An easy way to lose weight or recipe for heart attack?

It is too early to say that lowering dietary sodium levels can reduce eczema severity or the risk of developing it in the first place, says Carsten Flohr at King’s College London.

Abuabara says her team will soon start enrolling people to take part in a study funded by the US National Institutes of Health looking at the relationship between dietary sodium, levels of sodium on the skin and eczema severity.

Journal reference:

JAMA Dermatology DOI: doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2024.1544

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Breaking news, dad stopping superintendent from shaking daughter’s hand at graduation sparks cries of racism: ‘don’t want her touching him’.

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A Wisconsin father was caught on camera shoving aside a school administrator to stop him from shaking his daughter’s hand during her high school graduation — an incident some are saying appears racially charged.

“That’s my daughter,” the father, who is white, was heard saying as he leaped to the graduation stage and shoved aside Baraboo School District Superintendent Rainey Briggs, who is black, in late May.

“I don’t want her touching him,” the father continued in the footage as he pushed Briggs aside — just moments before his daughter was to shake his hand as she received her diploma.

Briggs was heard telling the father to take his hands off him, while the daughter and others on stage looked on with alarm and confusion.

The father was escorted out of the building and was later charged with disorderly conduct, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel .

It remains unclear what brought about the incident.

“No one should have to endure this type of gross & racist conduct,” wrote Wisconsin state Rep. Francesca Hong in an X post after the footage was released.

“Dr. Briggs is an excellent superintendent who cares deeply about the well-being of all students in the Baraboo District,” she added.

Briggs and other members of the Baraboo school board have been at the center of controversy in recent weeks, according to the Journal Sentinel, with his name being lumped in alongside calls for board president Kevin Vodak to be removed over accusations that he abused his powers to raise administrator salaries.

But Vodak was onstage during the ceremony and even shook the daughter’s hand, while the father only targeted Briggs.

The school board has not commented on what motivated the incident, but said in a statement that there was no place for “threatening, intimidating, or physically harming behaviors against anyone in our school district community.”

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“That this adult felt emboldened to behave in this way in front of hundreds of students and other adults should deeply trouble us all; this type of behavior will not be tolerated,” the Baraboo Board of Education said.

Baraboo High School was previously the center of racial controversy in 2018 when a group of then-students were photographed giving the Nazi salute during a prom photo shoot, while a boy in the front row also flashed an “Okay” sign, which has become associated with white power groups.

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A scientist, a leftist and a former Mexico City mayor. Who is Claudia Sheinbaum?

Who is Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s future first female president?

Ruling party presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum greets supporters after the National Electoral Institute announced she held an irreversible lead in the election in Mexico City, early Monday, June 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo)

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Presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum arrives at her closing campaign rally at the Zocalo in Mexico City, Wednesday, May 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo)

A supporter of presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum takes a selfie with a campaign poster during Sheinbaum’s closing campaign rally at the Zocalo in Mexico City, Wednesday, May 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)

Ruling party presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum leaves the polling station where she voted during general elections in Mexico City, Sunday, June 2, 2024. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo)

Ruling party presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum shows her ID as she leaves a polling station where she voted during general elections in Mexico City, Sunday, June 2, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Claudia Sheinbaum, who will be Mexico’s first woman leader in the nation’s more than 200 years of independence, captured the presidency by promising continuity.

The 61-year-old former Mexico City mayor and lifelong leftist ran a disciplined campaign capitalizing on her predecessor’s popularity before emerging victorious in Sunday’s vote, according to an official quick count. But with her victory now in hand, Mexicans will look to see how Sheinbaum, a very different personality from mentor and current President Andrés Manuel López Obrador , will assert herself.

While she hewed close to López Obrador politically and shares many of his ideas about the government’s role in addressing inequality, she is viewed as less combative and more data driven.

Sheinbaum’s background is in science. She has a Ph.D. in energy engineering. Her brother is a physicist. In a 2023 interview with The Associated Press, Sheinbaum said, “I believe in science.”

Observers say that grounding showed itself in Sheinbaum’s actions as mayor during the COVID-19 pandemic, when her city of some 9 million people took a different approach from what López Obrador espoused at the national level.

While the federal government was downplaying the importance of coronavirus testing, Mexico City expanded its testing regimen. Sheinbaum set limits on businesses’ hours and capacity when the virus was rapidly spreading, even though López Obrador wanted to avoid any measures that would hurt the economy. And she publicly wore protective masks and urged social distancing while the president was still lunging into crowds.

Over 50 countries go to the polls in 2024

• The year will test even the most robust democracies. Read more on what’s to come here .
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• Keep track of the latest AP elections coverage from around the world here.

Mexico’s persistently high levels of violence will be one of her most immediate challenges after she takes office Oct. 1. On the campaign trail she said little more than that she would expand the quasi-military National Guard created by López Obrador and continue his strategy of targeting social ills that make so many young Mexicans easy targets for cartel recruitment.

“Let it be clear, it doesn’t mean an iron fist, wars or authoritarianism,” Sheinbaum said of her approach to tackling criminal gangs, during her final campaign event. “We will promote a strategy of addressing the causes and continue moving toward zero impunity.”

Sheinbaum has praised López Obrador profusely and said little that the president hasn’t said himself. She blamed neoliberal economic policies for condemning millions to poverty, promised a strong welfare state and praised Mexico’s large state-owned oil company, Pemex, while also promising to emphasize clean energy.

“For me, being from the left has to do with that, with guaranteeing the minimum rights to all residents,” Sheinbaum told the AP last year.

In contrast to López Obrador, who seemed to relish his highly public battles with other branches of the government and also the news media, Sheinbaum is expected by many observers to be less combative or at least more selective in picking her fights.

“It appears she’s going to go in a different direction,” said Ivonne Acuña Murillo, a political scientist at Iberoamerican University. “I don’t know how much.”

Sheinbaum will also be the first person from a Jewish background to lead the overwhelmingly Catholic country.

Follow the AP’s coverage of global elections at: https://apnews.com/hub/global-elections/