In this Master's specialisation, mathematicians working in areas pertinent to (theoretical) computer science, like algebra and logic, and theoretical computer scientists, working in areas as formal methods and theorem proving, have joined forces to establish a specialisation in the Mathematical Foundations of Computer Science. The programme is unique in the Netherlands and will be built on the excellence of both research institutes and the successful collaborations therein.
The emphasis of the Master's is on a combination of a genuine theoretical and up-to-date foundation in the pertinent mathematical subjects combined with an equally genuine and up-to-date training in key aspects of theoretical computer science. For this reason, the mathematics courses in this curriculum concentrate on Algebra, Complexity Theory, Logic, Number Theory, and Combinatorics. The computer science courses concentrate on Formal Methods, Type Theory, Category Theory, Coalgebra and Theorem Proving.
Within both institutes, ICIS and WINST, there is a concentration of researchers working on mathematical logic and theoretical computer science with a collaboration that is unique in the Netherlands. The research topics range from work on algebra, logic and computability, to models of distributed, parallel and quantum computation, as well as mathematical abstractions to reason about programmes and programming languages.
See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/mathematics/foundations
1. A completed Bachelor's degree in Mathematics or Computer Science
In order to get admission to this Master’s you will need a completed Bachelor's in mathematics or computer science that have a strong mathematical background and theoretical interests. We will select students based on their motivation and their background. Mathematical maturity is essential and basic knowledge of logic and discrete mathematics is expected.
2. A proficiency in English
In order to take part in the programme, you need to have fluency in English, both written and spoken. Non-native speakers of English without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:
- TOEFL score of ≥575 (paper based) or ≥90 (internet based)
- IELTS score of ≥6.5
- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE), with a mark of C or higher
There is a serious shortage of well-trained information specialists. Often students are offered a job before they have actually finished their study. About 20% of our graduates choose to go on to do a PhD but most find jobs as systems builders, ICT specialists or ICT managers in the private sector or within government.
In this Master's specialisation, mathematicians working in areas pertinent to (theoretical) computer science, like algebra and logic, and theoretical computer scientists, working in areas as formal methods and theorem proving, have joined forces to establish a specialisation in the Mathematical Foundations of Computer Science. The programme is unique in the Netherlands and will be built on the excellence of both research institutes and the successful collaborations therein.
The emphasis of the Master's is on a combination of a genuine theoretical and up-to-date foundation in the pertinent mathematical subjects combined with an equally genuine and up-to-date training in key aspects of theoretical computer science. For this reason, the mathematics courses in this curriculum concentrate on Algebra, General Topology, Logic, Number Theory, and Combinatorics. The computer science courses concentrate on Formal Methods, Type Theory, Category Theory, Coalgebra and Theorem Proving.
Within both institutes, ICIS and WINST, there is a concentration of researchers working on mathematical logic and theoretical computer science with a collaboration that is unique in the Netherlands. The research topics range from work on algebra, logic and computability, to models of distributed, parallel and quantum computation, as well as mathematical abstractions to reason about programmes and programming languages.
See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/mathematics/foundations
High-level training in statistics and the modelling of random processes for applications in science, business or health care.
For many complex systems in nature and society, stochastics can be used to efficiently describe the randomness present in all these systems, thereby giving the data greater explanatory and predictive power. Examples include statistical mechanics, financial markets, mobile phone networks, and operations research problems. The Master’s specialisation in Applied Stochastics will train you to become a mathematician that can help both scientists and businessmen make better decisions, conclusions and predictions. You’ll be able to bring clarity to the accumulating information overload they receive.
The members of the Applied Stochastics group have ample experience with the pure mathematical side of stochastics. This area provides powerful techniques in functional analysis, partial differential equations, geometry of metric spaces and number theory, for example. The group also often gives advice to both their academic colleagues, and organisations outside of academia. They will therefore not only be able to teach you the theoretical basis you need to solve real world stochastics problems, but also to help you develop the communications skills and professional expertise to cooperate with people from outside of mathematics.
See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/mathematics/stochastics
- This specialisation focuses both on theoretical and applied topics. It’s your choice whether you want to specialise in pure theoretical research or perform an internship in a company setting.
- Mathematicians at Radboud University are expanding their knowledge of random graphs and networks, which can be applied in the ever-growing fields of distribution systems, mobile phone networks and social networks.
- In a unique and interesting collaboration with Radboudumc, stochastics students can help researchers at the hospital with very challenging statistical questions.
- Because the Netherlands is known for its expertise in the field of stochastics, it offers a great atmosphere to study this field. And with the existence of the Mastermath programme, you can follow the best mathematics courses in the country, regardless of the university that offers them.
- Teaching takes place in a stimulating, collegial setting with small groups. This ensures that you’ll get plenty of one-on-one time with your thesis supervisor at Radboud University .
- More than 85% of our graduates find a job or a gain a PhD position within a few months of graduating.
Mathematicians are needed in all industries, including the banking, technology and service industries, to name a few. A Master’s in Mathematics will show prospective employers that you have perseverance, patience and an eye for detail as well as a high level of analytical and problem-solving skills.
The skills learned during your Master’s will help you find jobs even in areas where your specialised mathematical knowledge may initially not seem very relevant. This makes your job opportunities very broad and is the reason why many graduates of a Master’s in Mathematics find work very quickly.
Possible careers for mathematicians include:
- Researcher (at research centres or within corporations)
- Teacher (at all levels from middle school to university)
- Risk model validator
- Consultant
- ICT developer / software developer
- Policy maker
- Analyst
Radboud University annually has a few PhD positions for graduates of a Master’s in Mathematics. A substantial part of our students attain PhD positions, not just at Radboud University, but at universities all over the world.
The research of members of the Applied Stochastics Department, focuses on combinatorics, (quantum) probability and mathematical statistics. Below, a small sample of the research our members pursue.
Eric Cator’s research has two main themes, probability and statistics.
1. In probability, he works on interacting particles systems, random polymers and last passage percolation. He has also recently begun working on epidemic models on finite graphs.
2. In statistics, he works on problems arising in mathematical statistics, for example in deconvolution problems, the CAR assumption and more recently on the local minimax property of least squares estimators.
Cator also works on more applied problems, usually in collaboration with people from outside statistics, for example on case reserving for insurance companies or airplane maintenance. He has a history of changing subjects: “I like to work on any problem that takes my fancy, so this description might be outdated very quickly!”
Hans Maassen researches quantum probability or non-commutative probability, which concerns a generalisation of probability theory that is broad enough to contain quantum mechanics. He takes part in the Geometry and Quantum Theory (GQT) research cluster of connected universities in the Netherlands. In collaboration with Burkhard Kümmerer he is also developing the theory of quantum Markov chains, their asymptotic completeness and ergodic theory, with applications to quantum optics. Their focal point is shifting towards quantum information and control theory, an area which is rapidly becoming relevant to experimental physicists.
Ross Kang conducts research in probabilistic and extremal combinatorics, with emphasis on graphs (which abstractly represent networks). He works in random graph theory (the study of stochastic models of networks) and often uses the probabilistic method. This involves applying probabilistic tools to shed light on extremes of large-scale behaviour in graphs and other combinatorial structures. He has focused a lot on graph colouring, an old and popular subject made famous by the Four Colour Theorem (erstwhile Conjecture).
See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/mathematics/stochastics
The MSc in Mathematics and Foundations of Computer Science, run jointly by the Mathematical Institute and the Department of Computer Science, focuses on the interface between pure mathematics and theoretical computer science.
The mathematical side concentrates on areas where computers are used, or which are relevant to computer science, namely algebra, general topology, number theory, combinatorics and logic. Examples from the computing side include computational complexity, concurrency, and quantum computing. Students take a minimum of five options and write a dissertation.
The course is suitable for those who wish to pursue research in pure mathematics (especially algebra, number theory, combinatorics, general topology and their computational aspects), mathematical logic, or theoretical computer science. It is also suitable for students wishing to enter industry with an understanding of the mathematical and logical design and concurrency.
The course will consist of examined lecture courses and a written dissertation. The lecture courses will be divided into two sections:
Each section shall be divided into schedule I (basic) and schedule II (advanced). Students will be required to satisfy the examiners in at least two courses taken from section B and in at least two courses taken from schedule II. The majority of these courses should be given in the first two terms.
During Trinity term and over the summer students should complete a dissertation on an agreed topic. The dissertation must bear regard to course material from section A or section B, and it must demonstrate relevance to some area of science, engineering, industry or commerce.
It is intended that a major feature of this course is that candidates should show a broad knowledge and understanding over a wide range of material. Consequently, each lecture course taken will receive an assessment upon its completion by means of a test based on written work. Students will be required to pass five courses, that include two courses from section B and two at the schedule II level - these need not be distinct - and the dissertation.
The course runs from the beginning of October through to the end of September, including the dissertation.
The ALGANT Master program provides a study and research track in pure mathematics, with a strong focus on algebra, geometry and number theory. This track may be completed throughout Europe and the world, thanks to a partnership between leading research universities. The ALGANT course introduces students to the latest developments within these subjects, and provides the best possible preparation for their forthcoming doctoral studies.
The ALGANT program consists mainly of advanced courses within the field of mathematics and of a research project or internship leading to a Master thesis. Courses are offered in: algebraic geometry, algebraic and geometric topology, algebraic and analytic number theory, coding theory, combinatorics, complex function theory, cryptology, elliptic curves, manifolds. Students are encouraged to participate actively in seminars.
The university partners offer compatible basic preparation in the first year (level 1), which then leads to a complementary offer for more specialized courses in the second year (level 2).
Year 1 (courses in French)
Semester 1
Semester 2
Year 2 (courses in English)
Semester 1
Semester 2
Students who successfully complete the ALGANT program will be well equipped to pursue a career in research by preparing a Ph.D.
Graduates may also directly apply for positions as highly trained mathematicians, especially in the areas of cryptography, information security and numerical communications.
Learn the language of the universe
Become a leading contributor to this pivotal discipline.
Find out more about the Master of Science parent structure.
Massey University’s Master of Science with a major in mathematics is a prestigious qualification for those that are interested in progressing to further, in-depth research. This postgraduate qualification will also give you a career advantage.
Join some of New Zealand’s leading mathematicians to develop your mathematics expertise to a higher level.
The Master of Science (Mathematics) will extend your studies of mathematics from your undergraduate degree. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the mathematics you encountered there, as well as learn about new and exciting areas of mathematics. You'll work closely with your lecturers and fellow students in small classes, and undertake a 30 credit year-long project. The project will be your chance to delve even deeper into a topic of your choosing, and perhaps even make your own original contribution to this body of knowledge. It'll be a challenge - but it'll be worth it.
Let our experts help you develop your own expertise.
Massey’s mathematics lecturers have an extensive range of experience and expertise across the field of mathematics.
Our groups have a particular strength in the theory and application of differential equations, with many staff at both the Auckland and Manawatu campuses working in the areas of dynamical systems, numerical solution of ordinary and partial differential equations, and modelling of physical systems. Our mathematical modellers are actively contributing to the study of epidemiology, celestial mechanics, hydrothermal eruptions, and biological and industrial processes.
Other areas of strength include modern analysis, geometry and number theory at Auckland and topology and combinatorics at Manawatu.
From securing sensitive communications using cryptography, to calculating the orbit of a satellite, mathematics is the most fundamental of the tools we use to comprehend and shape the world around us. Some have even called it the "language of the universe". Be that as it may, at heart it's still a product of human creativity and ingenuity - the creation of people like you and me. And there's still plenty left to be discovered and invented.
There is a well-established community of scientists and postgraduate science students at Massey. We work together to share discoveries and research and provide peer support.
Postgraduate study is hard work but hugely rewarding and empowering. The Master of Science (Mathematics) will push you to produce your best creative, strategic and theoretical ideas. The workload replicates the high-pressure environment of senior workplace roles. Our experts are there to guide but if you have come from undergraduate study, you will find that postgraduate study demands more in-depth and independent study.
Postgraduate study is not just ‘more of the same’ undergraduate study. It takes you to a new level in knowledge and expertise especially in planning and undertaking research.
Excited by the role of mathematics in securing the modern electronics and communications that we all rely on? This intensive MSc programme explores the mathematics behind secure information and communications systems, in a department that is world renowned for research in the field.
You will learn to apply advanced mathematical ideas to cryptography, coding theory and information theory, by studying the relevant functions of algebra, number theory and combinatorial complexity theory and algorithms. In the process you will develop a critical appreciation of the challenges that mathematicians face in facilitating secure information transmission, data compression and encryption. You will learn to use advanced cypher systems, correcting codes and modern public key crypto-systems. As part of your studies you will have the opportunity to complete a supervised dissertation in an area of your choice, under the guidance of experts in the field who regularly publish in internationally competitive journals and work closely with partners in industry.
We are a lively, collaborative and supportive community of mathematicians and information security specialists, and thanks to our relatively compact scale we will take the time to get to know you as an individual. You will be assigned a personal advisor to guide you through your studies.
Mathematicians who can push the boundaries and stay ahead when it comes to cryptography and information security are in demand, and the skills you gain will open up a range of career options and provide a solid foundation if you wish to progress to a PhD. These include transferable skills such as familiarity with a computer-based algebra package, experience of carrying out independent research and managing the writing of a dissertation.
Core modules
Optional modules
In addition to these mandatory course units there are a number of optional course units available during your degree studies. The following is a selection of optional course units that are likely to be available. Please note that although the College will keep changes to a minimum, new units may be offered or existing units may be withdrawn, for example, in response to a change in staff. Applicants will be informed if any significant changes need to be made.
You will initially choose 8 courses from the list of available options, of which you specify 6 courses during the second term that will count towards your final award. You will also complete a core research project under the supervision of one of our academic staff.There is a strong focus on small group teaching throughout the programme.
Assessment is carried out through a variety of methods, including coursework, examinations and the main project. End-of-year examinations in May or June will count for 66.7% of your final award, while the dissertation will make up the remaining 33.3% and has to be submitted by September.
By the end of this programme you will have an advanced knowledge and understanding of all the key mathematical principles and applications that underpin modern cryptography and communications. You will have advanced skills in coding, algebra and number theory, and be able to synthesise and interpret information from multiple sources with insight and critical awareness. You will have learnt to formulate problems clearly, to undertake independent research and to express your technical work and conclusions clearly in writing. You will also have valuable transferable skills such as advanced numeracy and IT skills, time management, adaptability and self-motivation.
Graduates from this programme have gone on to carry out cutting-edge research in the fields of communication theory and cryptography, as well as to successful careers in industries such as: information security, IT consultancy, banking and finance, higher education and telecommunications. Our mathematics postgraduates have taken up roles such as: Principal Information Security Consultant at Abbey National PLC; Senior Manager at Enterprise Risk Services, Deloitte & Touche; Global IT Security Director at Reuters; and Information Security Manager at London Underground.
The campus Careers team will be on hand to offer advice and guidance on your chosen career. The University of London Careers Advisory Service runs regular, tailored sessions for mathematics students, on finding summer internships or vacation employment and getting into employment.
“There is no branch of mathematics, however abstract, which may not someday be applied to phenomena of the real world.” – Nikolai Ivanovich Lobachevsky
If you're looking to take your undergraduate mathematics experience to new levels and develop advanced research skills, this intensive programme covers the wide spectrum of discrete mathematics, applied mathematics and statistics, and addresses some of the key quantifiable challenges and opportunities in the world around us. An interdisciplinary subject by nature, we will help you to apply mathematical concepts and methods to the ever-changing worlds of science, engineering, business, digital technology and industry, and particularly to communication theory, mathematical physics and financial mathematics, where some of our key research interests lie.
The skills you gain will open up a range of career options and provide a solid foundation if you wish to progress to a PhD. You will be guided by renowned specialists in the field who publish in internationally competitive journals and work closely with partners in industry.
Join our friendly and inspiring department and you will benefit from a thoroughly supportive learning environment, with generous staff office hours and a dedicated personal advisor to help you with any queries and guide you through your degree. Our graduates are in demand for their skills in research, numeracy, data handling and analysis, logical thinking and creative problem solving.
Core modules
Optional modules
In addition to these mandatory course units there are a number of optional course units available during your degree studies. The following is a selection of optional course units that are likely to be available. Please note that although the College will keep changes to a minimum, new units may be offered or existing units may be withdrawn, for example, in response to a change in staff. Applicants will be informed if any significant changes need to be made.
You will initially choose eight modules from the list of available options, of which you specify modules during the second term that will count towards your final award. You will also complete a core research project under the supervision of one of our academic staff. There is a strong focus on small group teaching throughout the programme.
Assessment is carried out through a variety of methods, including coursework, examinations and the main project. End-of-year examinations in May or June will count for 66.7% of your final award, while the dissertation will make up the remaining 33.3%.
By the end of this programme you will have completed a major research project and acquired an advanced knowledge and understanding of: the role and limitations of mathematics in solving problems that arise in real-world scenarios. You will also have impressive skills in selected areas of mathematics and their applications, and the ability to synthesise and interpret information from multiple sources with insight and critical awareness. We will teach you to formulate problems clearly and express your technical work and conclusions clearly in writing, and you will develop valuable transferable skills such as time management, adaptability and self-motivation.
Our graduates have gone on to carry out cutting-edge research in the fields of communication theory and cryptography, as well as successful careers in industries such as: information security, IT consultancy, banking and finance, higher education and telecommunication. They have taken up roles such as: Principal Information Security Consultant at Abbey National PLC; Senior Manager at Enterprise Risk Services, Deloitte & Touche; Global IT Security Director at Reuters; and Information Security Manager at London Underground.
You will have a dedicated personal adviser to guide you through your studies and advise you on postgraduate opportunities, and the campus Careers team will be on hand to offer advice and guidance on your chosen career. The University of London Careers Advisory Service offers regular, tailored sessions for Mathematics students, on finding summer internships or vacation employment and getting into employment.
Postgraduate combined research and teaching degree programme Applied Mathematics MRes:
This programme involves both taught classes in Applied Mathematics and a substantial MRes thesis which accounts for almost two-thirds of the total degree.
The MRes can be used as the first phase of our fast track PhD programme, in which the MRes thesis is extended over a further period of two years into a PhD thesis.
This programme involves both taught classes in Applied Mathematics and a substantial MRes thesis which accounts for almost two-thirds of the total degree. The minimum period of registration is 12 months.
The MRes is an ideal preparation for entry into a PhD programme. Indeed, the MRes programme can be used as the first phase of our fast track PhD programme. This is an excellent option for well-qualified mathematics students who do not have all the necessary mathematical background to start immediately on a PhD in their area of choice. In the fast track programme the MRes thesis is extended over a further period of two years into a PhD thesis.
Each MRes student is assigned a project supervisor who will act as director and mentor in the preparation of the MRes thesis. This gives each student the opportunity to work one-to-one with mathematicians who are international experts in their fields.
In addition to the assessed elements of the course, students are expected to play a full part in the research life of the School. The School has an active seminar programme, and organises international conferences in all areas of mathematics.
Related links
These courses are approximately one-third course work and two-thirds dissertation. The dissertation is completed under the direction of a project supervisor which gives our students the opportunity to work one-to-one with a leading expert in their field.
A regular programme of seminars and conferences takes place within the School in a wide range of subjects. Currently thriving at Birmingham are the following research groups:
This programme gives comprehensive training in mathematics and areas appropriate to professional development and research foundations. The MRes is an ideal preparation for entry into the PhD programme at Birmingham. In fact, the MRes programme can be used as the first phase of our ?Fast-track? PhD programme.
University Careers Network
Preparation for your career should be one of the first things you think about as you start university. Whether you have a clear idea of where your future aspirations lie or want to consider the broad range of opportunities available once you have a Birmingham degree, our Careers Network can help you achieve your goal.
Our unique careers guidance service is tailored to your academic subject area, offering a specialised team (in each of the five academic colleges) who can give you expert advice. Our team source exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CVs and job applications will help give you the edge.
If you make the most of the wide range of services you will be able to develop your career from the moment you arrive.
Postgraduate combined research and teaching degree programme Management Mathematics MRes:
This programme involves both taught classes in Management Mathematics and a substantial MRes thesis which accounts for almost two-thirds of the total degree.
The MRes can be used as the first phase of our fast track PhD programme, in which the MRes thesis is extended over a further period of two years into a PhD thesis.
This programme involves both taught classes in Management Mathematics and a substantial MRes thesis which accounts for almost two-thirds of the total degree. The minimum period of registration is 12 months.
The MRes is an ideal preparation for entry into the PhD programme at Birmingham or at any other UK university. Indeed, the MRes programme can be used as the first phase of our fast track PhD programme. This is an excellent option for well-qualified mathematics students who do not have all the necessary mathematical background to start immediately on a PhD in their area of choice. In the fast track programme the MRes thesis is extended over a further period of two years into a PhD thesis.
Each MRes student is assigned a project supervisor who will act as director and mentor in the preparation of the MRes thesis. This gives each student the opportunity to work one-to-one with mathematicians who are international experts in their fields.
In addition to the assessed elements of the course, students are expected to play a full part in the research life of the School. The School has an active seminar programme, and organises international conferences in all areas of mathematics.
Related links
These courses are approximately one-third course work and two-thirds dissertation. The dissertation is completed under the direction of a project supervisor which gives our students the opportunity to work one-to-one with a leading expert in their field.
A regular programme of seminars and conferences takes place within the School in a wide range of subjects. Currently thriving at Birmingham are the following research groups:
This programme gives comprehensive training in mathematics and areas appropriate to professional development and research foundations. The MRes is an ideal preparation for entry into the PhD programme at Birmingham. In fact, the MRes programme can be used as the first phase of our Fast-track PhD programme.
University Careers Network
Preparation for your career should be one of the first things you think about as you start university. Whether you have a clear idea of where your future aspirations lie or want to consider the broad range of opportunities available once you have a Birmingham degree, our Careers Network can help you achieve your goal.
Our unique careers guidance service is tailored to your academic subject area, offering a specialised team (in each of the five academic colleges) who can give you expert advice. Our team source exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CVs and job applications will help give you the edge.
If you make the most of the wide range of services you will be able to develop your career from the moment you arrive.
