University of Mississippi

What you'll study

The programme blends core doctoral-level mathematics with specialised coursework and original research in computational mathematics. Early study typically covers advanced real and complex analysis, algebraic structures, and probability, alongside a suite of computational subjects such as numerical linear algebra, numerical methods for ordinary and partial differential equations, scientific computing, optimisation, and numerical stability and error analysis.

• Advanced numerical analysis and approximation theory
• Numerical linear algebra and iterative methods
• Computational methods for PDEs (finite element, finite difference, spectral methods)
• Scientific computing and high-performance algorithms
• Computational optimisation and inverse problems
• Stochastic modelling and uncertainty quantification
• Programming for numerical computation (parallel computing, code development and verification)

You will complete doctoral-level seminars, pass qualifying examinations, and undertake original research under the supervision of a faculty advisor, culminating in a written dissertation and oral defence. There are opportunities for interdisciplinary projects with engineering, physics, chemistry and data science groups and access to the university's research computing infrastructure.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, applied mathematics, or a closely related discipline; a master’s degree in mathematics or applied mathematics is typically advantageous. Strong preparation in real analysis, linear algebra, differential equations and numerical methods is essential. Typical application components include academic transcripts, a statement of research interests, letters of recommendation, and a curriculum vitae.

International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. Admission may be competitive and often takes into account prior research experience, relevant coursework, and fit with departmental faculty research. Financial support in the form of teaching or research assistantships is commonly offered to admitted PhD students subject to departmental policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in Computational Mathematics pursue careers in academia, research institutes and industry. Common paths include faculty positions in mathematics and applied mathematics, postdoctoral research appointments, roles in national laboratories or government research agencies, and technical positions in sectors such as engineering, aerospace, energy, finance, and technology companies.

Because of the programme's emphasis on numerical methods, algorithm development and high-performance computing, alumni also find roles as quantitative analysts, computational scientists, data scientists, software developers for scientific applications, and consultants working on modelling and simulation projects.

Why study at University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi offers a research-active mathematics department with faculty working in areas including numerical analysis, scientific computing and applied mathematics, providing a broad base of expertise for doctoral supervision. Students benefit from collaborative opportunities across campus—particularly with engineering and physical sciences—and access to institutional computing resources for large-scale computations.

As a research environment, the department emphasises close faculty mentoring, teaching experience through assistantships, and opportunities to present work at conferences. The university's location and campus community support a focused research experience while maintaining connections to regional research partners and national computing initiatives.