COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Learn more about the Professional Science Master's in High-Performance Computing for Scientific Applications.

About the Program

Computation, in tandem with theory and experiment, is highly regarded in the advance of scientific knowledge and engineering practice. In recognition of a growing need for experts cross-trained in relevant computational sciences, applied mathematics, statistics and traditional scientific fields such as chemistry and physics, the Professional Science Master's (PSM) program in High-Performance Computing for Scientific Applications is targeted toward STEM graduates seeking to use high-performance computation as their primary research instrument in the physical sciences, life sciences and engineering.

The core curriculum for the High-Performance Computing for Scientific Applications PSM introduces students to the architecture of high-performance computing systems, mathematical techniques employed in high-performance computing, the software tools used in parallel calculations, and computational methods used in the sciences and engineering. A distinguishing feature of the program is its paired emphasis on the algorithms and technology of high-performance computing in applications to problems in science and engineering. Cross-disciplinary techniques are emphasized, and learning through applications and individually designed projects are prioritized over theory.

Time Limit for Degree Completion: 2 years

Campus Location: Main

Full-Time/Part-Time Status: The degree program can be completed on a full- or part-time basis. Most of the classes are offered in the evenings or on weekends to enable full-time working professionals to enroll in the program. International students are required to register as full-time students.

Interdisciplinary Study: The program is interdisciplinary by nature.

Accreditation: Temple University is fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Job Prospects: Students in the program are connected to internships in industry and government laboratories by the PSM Scientific Advisory Committee. Graduates are then well prepared to compete for high-quality positions in industry, government laboratories and academia.

Non-Matriculated Student Policy: Non-matriculated students may enroll in a total of three courses (9 credits) with permission of the instructor and the Department of Mathematics.

Financing Opportunities: Financial assistance in the form of Research or Teaching Assistantships is not offered.

Admission Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadline:

Fall Priority Deadline: March 1; December 15 international
Spring Priority Deadline: October 30, but open only to non-matriculated students who successfully completed PSM coursework in the Fall term

Applications submitted after the priority deadline will be considered for admission on a rolling basis.

APPLY ONLINE to this graduate program.

Letters of Reference:
Number Required: 2

From Whom: Letters should be obtained from college/university faculty or faculty who are familiar with the applicant's competency. If the applicant has an established career in the field, the applicant’s immediate supervisor should provide one of the letters.

Coursework Required for Admission Consideration: Applicants should have a strong background in one or more STEM fields: science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Bachelor's Degree in Discipline/Related Discipline: The PSM program has been designed for recent graduates and professionals who have a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a STEM field.

Statement of Goals: In approximately 250 to 500 words, describe your interest in Temple's program, research goals, and academic and research achievements.

Standardized Test Scores:
GRE: Optional

Applicants who earned their baccalaureate degree from an institution where the language of instruction was other than English, with the exception of those who subsequently earned a master’s degree at a U.S. institution, must report scores for a standardized test of English that meet these minimums:

  • TOEFL iBT: 85
  • IELTS Academic: 6.5
  • PTE Academic: 58
  • Duolingo: 110

Resume: Current resume required.

Interview: An in-person or Skype interview with the Program Director or members of the PSM Steering Committee is required.

Transfer Credit: Graduate credits from an accredited institution may be transferred into the PSM program. The credits must be equivalent to coursework offered by the Department of Mathematics at Temple University. A grade of "B" or better must have been earned for the credits to transfer. The PSM Steering Committee makes recommendations to the Department Chair for transferring credit on an individual basis. The maximum number of credits a student may transfer is 6.

Program Requirements

General Program Requirements:
Number of Credits Required Beyond the Baccalaureate: 30

Required Courses:

Core Courses
MATH 5003Professional Development Seminar 11
MATH 5005Ethics in Computing 22
MATH 5061Fundamentals of Computer Programming for Scientists and Engineers4
MATH 5062High Performance Computer Programming for Scientific Modeling3
MATH 5063Introduction to High-Performance Computing Technology for Scientists4
MATH 5066Mathematical Methods for High Performance Computing3
Electives9
Select three from the following: 3
Structural Bioinformatics I
Quantum Chemistry
Statistical Thermodynamics
Analysis and Modeling of Social and Information Networks
Neural Computation
Machine Learning
Distributed and Parallel Computer Systems
Numerical Linear Algebra I
Numerical Linear Algebra II
Numerical Differential Equations I
Numerical Differential Equations II
Mathematical Modeling for Science, Engineering, and Industry
Topics Computer Program
Topics Computer Program
Topics in Numerical Analysis
Topics in Numerical Analysis
Introduction to Quantum Computing
Statistical Mechanics
Capstone Course
MATH 9995Capstone Project 44
Total Credit Hours30
1

BIOL 5506 Professional Development Seminar for PSM in Biotechnology serves as an approved alternative to MATH 5003.

2

BIOL 5511 Ethics in Bioinformatics serves as an approved alternative for MATH 5005.

3

Alternately, other elective courses may be taken at the 5000 level or higher, as approved by the program director.

4

With approval from their academic advisor, students may complete capstone credits over multiple academic terms.

Culminating Event:
Capstone Research Project:
The capstone research project (MATH 9995) provides students with the opportunity to develop, apply and demonstrate their skills in a professional high-performance computing environment. The project must be approved in advance by the PSM Steering Committee and requires a supervisor from either the Temple faculty or the PSM Scientific Advisory Committee. Students can undertake their research projects in whole or in part during student internships.

Contacts

Program Web Address:

https://www.temple.edu/academics/degree-programs/high-performance-computing-for-scientific-applications-psm-st-hpc-psm

Department Information:

Dept. of Mathematics

638 Wachman Hall

1805 N. Broad Street

Philadelphia, PA 19122-6094

cst.psm@temple.edu

215-204-7842

Submission Address for Application Materials:

https://cst.temple.edu/academics/graduate-programs/apply-now

Department Contacts:

Program Co-Directors:

Benjamin Seibold, PhD

seibold@temple.edu

Daniel Szyld, PhD

szyld@temple.edu

Graduate Chairperson:

David Futer, PhD

dfuter@temple.edu

215-204-7854

Department Chairperson:

Brian Rider, PhD

brian.rider@temple.edu

215-204-7589