Pursuing a Graduate Degree in Math: Advice Needed

[andreigustav]

i just graduated college majoring in economics having a 3.85 GPA
problem is my interests have shifted to maths particularly geometry and topology
i didnt take any such math courses in college but i have read extensively most of the advanced undergrad books on analytical geometry.
now i really want to get into a math program in grad school but i think my chances are slim since i don't have any evidence to prove my mathematical ability to pursue a masters or phd.

any thoughts?

 

[chiro]

Hey andreigustav and welcome to the forums.

Have you checked out your prospective universities that you are interested in for entry requirements?

My guess is that you will face a lot of competition especially from people who have not only done grad level courses in their undergraduate program, but also people with any kind of research experience.

It might help if you find out requirements like whether you have to do the math GRE or have a significant number of high level coursework in pure math (analysis, topology, etc).

It will also help if you have any good letters of recommendation as well as finding out (equally importantly) how much weight they carry depending on the person and the department they are in.

I don't know if you can get in, but answering these questions in my opinion will get you much closer to an answer.

 

[diligence]

i agree your chances at a decent school are probably very slim as it stands now. however if you truly want to pursue math, you can increase those chances over the next year or two by taking classes and finding a professor to research with.

 

[Sankaku]

i didnt take any such math courses in college but i have read extensively most of the advanced undergrad books on analytical geometry.

Could you let us know the textbooks you have been working with? It might help us give you better advice regarding your level of preparation.

 

[Matrix0]

Congratulations on graduating with a high GPA in economics! It is understandable that your interests have shifted towards math, specifically geometry and topology. Pursuing a graduate degree in math can be a challenging but rewarding decision.

Firstly, it is important to note that having a strong foundation in mathematics is crucial for graduate studies. While you may not have taken any math courses in college, self-studying and reading advanced undergraduate books can demonstrate your interest and dedication to the subject. However, it would be beneficial for you to take some undergraduate math courses or participate in math-related activities to strengthen your mathematical skills and knowledge.

Additionally, it would be helpful for you to reach out to math professors or researchers at universities you are interested in and discuss your background and interest in pursuing a graduate degree in math. They may be able to provide guidance and advice on how to improve your chances of being accepted into a math program.

Another option could be to enroll in a post-baccalaureate program in math. This program is designed for students who have a non-math undergraduate degree but want to pursue a graduate degree in math. It will provide you with the necessary coursework and preparation for graduate studies in math.

Overall, my advice would be to continue studying and building a strong foundation in math, reach out to professors and researchers, and consider enrolling in a post-baccalaureate program to improve your chances of being accepted into a math graduate program. It may also be helpful to highlight your dedication, passion, and self-motivation in your application to showcase your potential as a successful graduate student in math. Good luck!