Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, and Real-world Systems (MARS)

Mathematics powers Artificial Intelligence (AI) and underpins the systems that shape our world. From models that predict climate change and track diseases, to social media algorithms and generative AI like ChatGPT, mathematics is at the heart of every major innovation.Graduate talent is needed to drive these advancements, and this degree provides you with the analytical, problem-solving and reasoning skills to make an impact in a wide range of sectors.

You will build a strong mathematical foundation, just as you would in a traditional maths degree, whilst also gaining theoretical understanding and hands-on experience of AI, machine learning and real-world modelling.
Working on projects inspired by government and industry, you'll tackle challenges like predicting floods, stopping infection spread and preventing cyber attacks.

With a degree in Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-world Systems (MARS), you will have the tools to forge a successful career in technologies that will dictate our futures.

What to expect

Our four-year MSci Hons Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-world Systems (MARS) degree begins by building upon your understanding of mathematical methods and concepts through a mix of lectures and workshops. You will explore a wide range of topics, from differential equations, multivariate calculus for AI and data science, probability and statistics to logic, proofs and theorems. In addition, you will study mathematical modelling and programming, learning the principles of scientific computing and gaining experience working with the R and Python programming languages. You will also learn to apply one of the most fundamental tools in modern AI research, the deep neural network, to real world datasets.

As you progress into Years 2 and 3, you will delve deeper into a range of specialist optional modules and core concepts in linear algebra and probability. You will learn to translate contemporary issues into mathematical problems, and using multivariate calculus and mathematical analysis, you will gain an understanding of the algorithms that have revolutionised machine learning and AI. These tools, along with statistical methods, will help you investigate more advanced mathematical models and their solutions.

To further develop your skills there is the opportunity to apply your knowledge to real-world problems through exciting, industry-inspired projects, where you'll work both independently and as part of a team.

Masters-level training
In Year 4, you will be able to widen your knowledge and skills by selecting from a pool of Master's-level modules.These advanced modules consolidate knowledge gained throughout the programme while extending your skills to a higher level and introducing you to open problems at the forefront of research and industry.

You will also complete a major industry-linked research project, guided by your interests and supervised by an active researcher. This will cement your learning, provide you with valuable experience and position you for a career in industry or academia.

3 things our students want you to know:
Lancaster has received 13 million from Research England to become a leader in the mathematics underpinning AI, so you'll be part of a community delivering solutions to problems in health, engineering, cyber security and the environment. This means that what you learn is always evolving and keeping pace with innovation
Our computing and maths societies put on industry talks, guest lectures and career development opportunities
Mathematical sciences at Lancaster are incredibly collaborative. You will bounce ideas around with experts, or with students from all years. Our thriving postgraduate research student community has been right where we are, asking the same questions, and there's even opportunities to talk with them and learn from them