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I'm not entirely sure that this is the right medium for this question, so feel free to close it at will.

I'm basically wondering where there are some strong programs to get a masters in mathematics. While finding a list of these isn't so difficult, I'm aware that some of them serve mainly to help those whose undergraduate math education is a little weak to be a PhD candidate. I'm going to assume (perhaps wrongfully) that I'm not in that category. So my question is this: Assuming I'm qualified to pursue a PhD in mathematics, but am slightly uneasy about a five year commitment, which abbreviated graduate school options are available to me?

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    @LeonidKovalev I guess I should have stated that in my original formulation of the question. I'm more into the pure stuff, and I'm looking to get a taste of research level mathematics. I have a feeling academia is where I'd like to be (not that I'm feasibly qualified), but methinks I'd rather acclimate myself than jump in head first.2012-07-14

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If your goal is to do research in pure mathematics, then even if you are not 100% sure that you are going to reach it (who can be?), I'd recommend you to apply to Ph.D. programs. A terminal M.S. program is not likely to be a good fit precisely because it's designed to serve a different group of people with different objectives. As someone serving on a graduate committee, I don't have a problem with an applicant who is interested in math and has what it takes to study it, even if the applicant is not quite sure that s/he is going to spend 5+ years here. It's easier to deal with someone who can do PhD but chooses not to, than the other way around.