MSc Mathematics (by research)

Be part of our vision to advance mathematical knowledge and understanding through impactful research.

We aim to create new applications and techniques that benefit the mathematics community and society in general. Our connections across the University, and with industrial partners and policymakers, will enable you to exchange ideas and build connections to advance your research and enhance your employability.

Your research

Your research will culminate in a thesis on a topic agreed between you and your supervisor. Your thesis must contain a substantial piece of research which includes some original work. This could include new ideas, or original commentary on material which is currently considered to be at the forefront of mathematical knowledge.

Work on your thesis is guided by regular meetings with your supervisor. You'll be assessed wholly on the basis of your thesis, although your degree can include some taught modules.

At the end of your degree, you'll have up to three months to finish writing up your research.

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Training and support

You'll have access to all of the transferable skills training programmes available to MPhil and PhD students. There are also a range of events to take part in during your induction week (usually the first week of your first semester), as well as taking the online Being an Effective Researcher Tutorial from the Building Research and Innovation Capacity team which is obligatory for all research students.

Work on your thesis is monitored by regular meetings of the Thesis Advisory Panel (at least once every six months for a full-time student and once a year for part-time students). The panel will review the progress of your research and provide additional advice and guidance.

You'll be taught and supervised by staff who themselves produce internationally renowned research. Our supportive graduate teaching assistants and staff are on hand to give you the help you need.

Course location

The Department of Mathematics is located in James College on Campus West.

Entry requirements

To apply for this course you should hold, or expect to hold, a Bachelors degree in Mathematics with a 2:1 or first-class honours (or overseas equivalent), or a Bachelor's degree in which Mathematics has formed a substantial part of the course.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must provide evidence of your ability.

Check your English language requirements

Applying

Apply for the MSc in Mathematics (by research)

Take a look at the supporting documents you may need for your application.

Find out more about how to apply.

Research proposal

Your application should contain details of the area(s) of Mathematics in which you are interested in carrying out research. You should submit either a research proposal or an explanation of why you wish to undertake a research degree in your chosen field. This might include details of any relevant research that you have undertaken previously, perhaps as part of your undergraduate degree.

Careers and skills

Our dedicated careers team offer specific support, including a programme of professional researcher development and careers workshops and 1:1 career support sessions. These will help to build up your employability portfolio and improve your skills and experience outside of your research work.

Career opportunities

Our graduates have gone on to work for companies in a range of sectors including business analytics, cyber security, large-scale manufacturing and logistics.