Mathematics (Taught)

Students on the MSc Mathematics will enhance their ability to apply analytical techniques, and perform the clear logical thinking and deductive reasoning necessary to explore complex patterns, structure and problems.

The MSc in Mathematics consists of two semesters of taught courses run by the School of Mathematics and Statistics, followed by a dissertation undertaken over the summer months. If you are interested in part-time study, you should email maths-msc-enquiries@st-andrews.ac.uk in the first instance to request approval.
This programme is particularly suited for those seeking a career in academic mathematical research or a mathematics-related career in the private sector.

Highlights

• A range of advanced mathematical and statistical module choices are offered.

• Students can explore diverse topics in pure and applied mathematics, and possibly some statistics, at an advanced level.

• Students are prepared to pursue research in mathematics.

• Students will have the opportunity to be taught in small groups, and work closely during the dissertation, with leading experts in their fields.

• Regular research activities are held, given by experts from within and out with the School.

The modules listed here are indicative, and there is no guarantee they will run for 2023 entry. Modules can be chosen from across the School's undergraduate and postgraduate-level modules. At least three-quarters of your credits must come from postgraduate-level modules, and half of your credits must come from Pure Mathematics or Applied Mathematics modules.

Undergraduate-level Modules
Here is a sample of optional modules that may be offered.

• Asymptotic Methods
• Bayesian Inference
• Classical Mechanics
• Classical Statistical Inference
• Computing in Mathematics
• Computing in Statistics
• Design of Experiments
• Dynamical Systems
• Financial Mathematics
• Finite Mathematics

Postgraduate-level Modules
Here is a sample of optional modules that may be offered.

• Advanced Analytical Techniques
• Advanced Combinatorics
• Advanced Computational Techniques
• Advanced Data Analysis
• Advanced Solar Theory
• Applied Statistical Modelling using GLMs
• Ergodic Theory and Dynamical Systems
• Galois Theory
• Geophysical Fluid Dynamics
• Hyperbolic Geometry

Dissertation
During the final part of the course, from mid-May to mid-August, students complete a dissertation. Dissertations are supervised by members of academic staff who will advise on the choice of subject and provide guidance throughout the progress of the dissertation.

If students choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma. By choosing an exit award, you will finish your degree at the end of the second semester of study and receive a PGDip instead of an MSc.

Further information is available via the "Course contact details" section at the bottom of this webpage.

Most modules for the MSc in Mathematics are traditional semester-long lecture courses with end-of-semester exams, but some modules have a larger element of continuous assessment.