Mathematics, Ph.D.

(PMATH)

The requirements for the PhD degree in mathematics include demonstrating a mastery of a broad area of mathematics and writing a dissertation making an original and substantial contribution to mathematics. The departmental-level academic course plan for each student will be developed in consultation with and approved by the student’s advisory committee each semester. Specific requirements for the PhD degree in mathematics include:

• Completion of at least 54 semester hours of graduate credit.
• Passing the PhD-qualifying examination no later than the second year of study, unless a postponement is allowed by the graduate committee. This examination, based on the department’s core curriculum, is described in detail at https://www.math.lsu.edu/grad/PhD#qualexam.
• Completion of the breadth requirement. Breadth courses are described in detail at https://www.math.lsu.edu/grad/PhD#coursework.
• Passing the oral general examination, conducted by the student’s advisory committee, by the end of the third year of study, unless a postponement is allowed by the graduate committee.
• Writing a dissertation and passing the final examination, which is primarily a doctoral dissertation defense. This examination is conducted by the student’s advisory committee, chaired by the student’s major professor.