PhD in Mathematics

PhD Student (Pre-candidacy) - Candidacy Requirements

Candidacy requirements consist of three major parts, namely coursework requirement, candidacy examination, and thesis proposal (including oral defense). Students must complete and fulfill all three parts within the "maximum period for fulfilling candidacy requirements". Details are listed below:

Coursework Requirement

  • Lecture courses: at least 15 units (5 courses) from MATH5000 and 6000 level, of which:

    1. at least 3 units should be from courses coded MATH5011, 5031, 5051; and
    2. at least 6 units should be from courses coded MATH5000 level.

    (Exemption may be granted by the Graduate Panel with the recommendation of the advisor.)

  • Thesis research:
    • (Full-time students) 6 units each term from MATH8006
    • (Part-time students) 3 units each term from MATH8003
  • Graduate seminar: minimum 6 units from MATH7400

Candidacy Examination

Before the end of the first year of study, students should pass at least two of the following written qualifying examinations:

  1. Real Analysis,
  2. Complex Analysis,
  3. Abstract Algebra,
  4. Applied Mathematics.

Thesis Proposal and Oral Defense

Students are required to submit a research proposal endorsed by the advisor, and pass an oral examination.

Maximum Period for Fulfilling Candidacy Requirements

Students are expected to fulfill all candidacy requirements above in 24 months before advancement to PhD post-candidacy.

PhD Student (Post-candidacy)

Coursework Requirement

  • Thesis research:
    • (Full-time students) 12 units each term from MATH8012
    • (Part-time students and full-time continuing students) 6 units each term from MATH8006
    • (Part-time continuing students) 3 units each term from MATH8003
  • Graduate seminar: minimum 6 units from MATH7400

Thesis and Oral Defense

Students are required to submit a research thesis endorsed by the advisor, and pass an oral examination for graduation.