MCAM Admission Requirements

Applicants with solid quantitative preparation who want research-grade computation, modeling, optimization, and data-driven methods—whether for industry roles or as preparation for the best applied math PhD programs.

Multivariable calculus, linear/matrix algebra, and elementary probability/statistics. Your application should demonstrate that you will benefit from the program’s curriculum.

No. Many students come from physics, engineering, economics, or related fields. As long as you’ve completed the prerequisites and can demonstrate quantitative strength, we invite you to apply.

GRE scores are recommended but not required. Submitting a strong score can help contextualize your background, but it is optional.

Your statement should address your academic and career objectives. Be as specific as you can about the fields in which you plan to study and your particular research interests. Beyond what is apparent from your transcripts, describe your preparation for the program, including research projects or work experiences.

You’ll need to submit three letters of recommendation. Choose writers who can speak to your math, computation, and research potential.

Online application, transcripts for all post-secondary institutions, Statement of Purpose, résumé/CV, three recommendation letters, English-proficiency evidence (if applicable), and an application fee of $90.

• November 2, 2026
• February 1, 2027
• May 3, 2027

Yes—eligible applicants can email mastersadmissions@uchicago.edu to request a fee waiver.

Students are invited to submit scores from any English proficiency examination they believe represents their English language ability. View Master's admissions FAQs. For more information, email mastersadmissions@uchicago.edu. 

If you have met most but not all of the prerequisites, you are still welcome to apply. Use your Statement of Purpose to showcase your readiness (projects, research, relevant work) or explain how you’ll address any gaps (e.g., a current or summer courses).

The option to complete a master’s without a thesis can be completed in nine months (three full-time quarters) or more. The option with a master’s thesis can be completed in 15 months (four full-time quarters, excluding summer) or more. Both options can extend for up to two academic years, depending on the background and study plan of the student.

Students are matched with multiple academic advisors who will work with them to determine which courses and tracks will align with their academic and career goals.

Data Scientist/ML Engineer, Operations Research Analyst/Scientist, Optimization Engineer/Decision Scientist, Computational Scientist/HPC Engineer, Imaging/Inverse Problems Engineer, Quantitative Analyst/Developer, Statistician/Biostatistician, Energy Systems Analyst/Climate Modeler, and more.

Yes. The curriculum maps directly to high-growth roles (data science, OR/optimization, scientific computing) and can also be a strong springboard for applications to applied mathematics PhD programs or to programs in related mathematical and quantitative fields..

Log into the University’s application portal to track materials, decisions, and (if admitted) to submit your deposit.

For specific questions about the program and curriculum, contact Jonathan Rodriguez (Student Affairs Administrator). For questions about the application and admissions, please email mastersadmissions@uchicago.edu.