Mathematics and Computer Science at Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University offers graduate programs in mathematics leading to the Master of Science and the Master of Arts in Education. These programs feature small classes (average class size is ten) and the opportunity to work closely with faculty mem bers who are specialists in the fields of pure and applied mathematics, computer science, statistics, and education. Their research interests are in the areas of analytic number theory, differential equations, combinatorics, graph theory, applied statistics, inverse problems, computer systems and learning theory.

This program, which requires a minimum of thirty semester hours, can be completed in one year by full-time graduate students. Graduate assistants usually take two years to finish the program. The curriculum includes courses in algebra, analysis, complex a nalysis, mathematical modeling, methods of applied mathematics, partial differential equations and boundary value problems, numerical analysis, numerical linear algebra, advanced statistical theory and methods, and thesis.

The "4+1" degree program is designed to provide a student working towards a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics a means to complete the requirements for their undergraduate degree as well as a Master of Science degree in Applied Mathematics in a period of five years. Check here for more information.

This program has options for teaching in secondary schools or in two-year colleges. Comprised of thirty to thirty-five semester hours, the program can be completed in two semesters and one summer term by full-time graduate students. The program includes c ourses in adolescent development, advanced educational psychology, comparative education, computers in education, curriculum development, foundations of modern education, linear algebra, mathematics for secondary teachers, methods of research, modern geom etry, philosophy of education, secondary school curriculum, statistical theory, survey of algebra, and survey of analysis.

Graduate students have access to extensive research facilities. Hunter Library's holdings include more than 404,000 books, one million units of microform, and 3,000 periodicals, including newspapers and magazines. On-line computer-based searching and inte rlibrary loan services support the research efforts of faculty and graduate students. The library offers several databases on CD-ROM, permitting direct search.

The University Computer Center has a number of electronic classrooms, general-access computing laboratories, and mainframe servers for campus-wide use. The department has several servers and two laboratories equipped with personal computers for instruction in programming, operating systems, graphics, and other advanced applications. The department also has on-line access to state-owned supercomputing facilities as well as national networks.

WCU offers some graduate courses in mathematics at the Graduate Center located on the campus of UNC-Asheville.

Teaching, research, and service assistantships are available for graduate students. In addition, there are a limited number of Chancellor's Fellowships and Graduate School Study Grants. Out-of-state students who are offered assistantships may apply to hav e all or part of their out-of-state tuition waived. Students are encouraged to apply early to the Office of Research and Graduate Studies.

Western Carolina University is located in the scenic Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, an ideal setting for graduate study. The Cullowhee campus is one hour's drive southwest from Asheville, North Carolina, and three hours' drive northeast from Atlanta, Georgia. The Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and some of the South 's finest resort areas are close by.

One of the sixteen campuses of the University of North Carolina, the university enrolls about 6,600 students annually, including 1,200 graduate students. The university operates on a semester system; fall and spring semesters compose one academic year. Gr aduate courses are also offered during summer sessions.

The Graduate School first awarded advanced degrees in 1952. Since that time, it has continuously broadened its programs and now offers ten master's degrees with more than fifty options in professional and academic areas. It also offers the education specialist degree in school adm inistration; supervision, curriculum, and instruction; and elementary and middle-grades education. The Certificate of Advanced Study in school counseling is also offered.