Mathematical Sciences

The MSc in Mathematical Sciences is a 12-month degree course, starting in early October and finishing the following September.

The course comprises six optional modules, each amounting to around 200 hours of work. Each module includes 50 hours of contact time made up of lectures supported by problem classes where you have the opportunity to work to solve example problems in an ideal way, and discuss the thought processes behind such solutions. The remainder of the time is made up of independent preparation, reading and working on independent assignments to reinforce your understanding of the material.

The component of the course is a dissertation on a topic of current research, prepared under the guidance of a supervisor with expertise in the area. We offer a wide variety of possible dissertation topics.

Assessment methods vary by module with the majority involving written examinations, written assignments and practical assessments. A number of the statistical based modules also include computer-based examinations.

The taught modules amount to two thirds of the course with the final third of your marks gained through the completion of the dissertation, an independently researched extended report into a body of current mathematical work which is presented in an interesting, innovative and well-organised manner. The dissertation is supported by 10 hours of one-to-one meetings with a supervisor in which you have the opportunity to discuss sources, draft work, sample calculations and references.

2:1 degree or equivalent in Mathematics or a related degree subject.

English language requirements

The tuition fees for 2024/25 academic year have not yet been finalised, they will be displayed here once approved.

The tuition fees shown are for one complete academic year of full time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).

Please also check costs for colleges and accommodation.

As a postgraduate in the Department of Mathematical Sciences, you are empowered to develop your abilities in critical thinking, problem-solving and independent learning and improve skills and attributes that contribute hugely to professional career aspirations.

There are very real opportunities to develop an understanding of mathematics as a professional practice and to prepare for working life in a range of roles including research scientists, teachers, statisticians, operational researchers, investment analysts, actuaries, insurance analysts and accountants.

Postgraduates have secured rewarding and stimulating roles with the Civil Service, Deloitte, the Ministry of Defence, CERN, Royal London and Morgan Stanley.

You will also be well-placed to continue research activities at a higher level at Durham or another academic institution.

The Department of Mathematical Sciences offers a world class research-led education, combining a passionate commitment to teaching with expertise in a range of subject options including pure mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics and probability.

Key areas of research are Computational and Applied Mathematics, Pure Mathematics, Statistics and Probability and Theoretical Particle Physics.

We regularly review our course structures and update them where necessary to ensure they continue to offer world class learning and development opportunities to help students succeed in a rapidly changing professional arena.

The Department is part of MAGIC, a consortium of 21 universities offering distance learning for postgraduate students via interactive access-grid technology. We are also a member of the Academy for PhD Training in Statistics (APTS), giving access to high-quality training courses, covering key areas of statistics and probability.

In addition, we are a member of several scientific networks that work to address issues ranging from the mathematics of climate change to geometric group theory and to build constructive partnerships beyond the University.

For more information visit our department pages.

Staff

For a current list of staff, please see the Mathematical Sciences department pages.

Research Excellence Framework

• 96% of our research outputs are world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021)

Facilities

In the Department, you are part of a postgraduate community that is vibrant and engaged and enjoys a wide range of state-of-the-art facilities in which to study and carry out research.

We are housed in a contemporary building along with the Department of Computer Science. It features a student project space, open plan networking and work space, the Hazan Venture Lab as well as a café and teaching spaces.

Our Department is situated on the Science Site on the Upper Mountjoy campus to the south of the City centre, within easy reach of all Durham Colleges and close to the University Library.

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