The Mathematical Olympiad Program (MOP)

About the Mathematical Olympiad Program (MOP)

The Mathematical Olympiad Program (MOP) is a mathematically stimulating experience at Carnegie Mellon University designed to broaden the participants’ view of mathematics while fostering their excitement toward further study. MOP also serves as the MAA AMC’s training initiative that focuses on long-term development for students with exceptional mathematical abilities. This academic program is designed to broaden students’ view of mathematics while enhancing their excitement toward further study, with two primary objectives. The first aim is to substantially supplement the mathematical instruction that students typically receive in school, by teaching advanced mathematical theorems and techniques that are typically encountered in the university. The second is to significantly improve students' problem-solving skills.

Since its inception in 1974, the Mathematical Olympiad Program (MOP) is a mathematically stimulating experience designed to broaden the participants’ view of mathematics while fostering their excitement toward further study. MOP is free to attend for invited students. MOP is a unique opportunity to challenge students’ minds, test their skills, and explore their futures while enjoying a taste of the college environment. Evenings include optional enrichment activities, including talks on advanced mathematical concepts from visiting speakers, as well as staff office hours, and recreational panel activities. The program expects to further enhance our training of the next generation of leading mathematicians and scientists. In 2021, 60+ students were invited to this selective program from a pool of over 132,000 AMC 10/12 participants. MOP instructors teach dynamic introductory courses in Number Theory, Combinatorics, Euclidean Geometry, and other specialty topics

Pre-MOP

The MAA AMC Pre-MOP program was established to provide girls participating in MOP an opportunity to acclimate to the environment, meet instructors, practice problem-solving skills, and ultimately build on their abilities before the beginning of the MOP summer camp. Students participate in problem-solving exercises, games, and meals with MOP staff, giving students an opportunity to connect and bond together. This alternative environment allows girls to safely practice mathematics, eases the competitive tension, and fosters self-confidence in a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

Qualification

The top participants from the USA(J)MO are invited to the Mathematical Olympiad Program (MOP) in the summer after the competition. Participants from the Mathematical Olympiad Program are then eligible to be selected for the following summer’s six-member team that will represent the United States of America at the IMO, EGMO, and RMM. Learn more about the competition cycle here.