MSc Mathematical Sciences
- MSc
Overview
Join a university ranked in the UK top five for Maths research (THE analysis of REF 2021) with an excellent reputation for teaching and learning (UK top 10 for Maths, QS World University Rankings by subject 2026).
Our MSc in Mathematical Sciences is a flexible and challenging programme, taught by leading experts in the field. It will help you to develop a wide range of mathematical techniques and give you a solid foundation for further research or employment at the highest levels.
The programme offers several advanced courses across both pure and applied mathematics, including algebra, logic, number theory, probability, and statistics. These are complemented by modules with strong connections to applications in physics (fluid mechanics, quantum physics, and quantum computation), as well as cryptography, mathematical finance, optimisation, data science, and artificial intelligence.
There is a wide variety of combinations of units and themes, with the option to also add units from other schools including Physics, Engineering Mathematics and Technology, and Computer Science, to enable you to create an MSc that closely matches your interests. This interdisciplinary structure enriches the cohort experience by bringing together students with diverse perspectives and encourages creative approaches to solving complex mathematical problems
A distinctive feature of the MSc is the supervised summer research thesis, which enables students to work closely with an academic supervisor on a topic connected to current mathematical research. This provides valuable experience in independent study, research methodology, and advanced mathematical communication.
The programme gives you the opportunity to increase your understanding of mathematical theory and equips you with fundamental skills in the modelling and analysis of problems. Our graduates are highly sought after by employers for their strong analytical, communication and organisational skills.
Programme structure
The MSc in Mathematical Sciences comprises a taught component and a research project.
There is an extensive range of possible combinations of units and themes. An academic mentor will advise you on unit selection and meet regularly with you individually or in small groups throughout the taught component. You are also encouraged to participate in the wider academic life of the school, including research seminars, reading clubs and social events.
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc in Mathematical Sciences.
Entry requirements
You will typically need a strong upper second-class honours degree (65% or higher) or an international equivalent in Mathematics or a very closely related subject such as Mathematical Physics / Maths and Statistics / Statistics and Maths / Maths and Applied Maths / Applied Maths and Maths.
A joint honours degree in Mathematics, such as Maths with Economics / Finance / Physics / Statistics / Computer Science / Philosophy etc may be considered if there is sufficient theoretical mathematics content at 65% (or international equivalent).
We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.
If your achieved grade is lower than our entry requirements, your application may be more likely to receive an offer if you have additional relevant qualifications. Please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing a relevant postgraduate qualification.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level E.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- Home: full-time
- £16,900 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £35,700 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and scholarships
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
Graduates from the MSc Mathematical Sciences are well prepared for careers across finance, technology, government, and research, where strong analytical and quantitative skills are in high demand.
Former students have taken roles such as business process analyst, software developer, actuarial analyst, risk analyst, statistical modeller, and audit associate. These roles reflect the broad applicability of advanced mathematical training across both technical and analytical careers.
Typical employers include JP Morgan, Bloomberg, Deloitte, Towers Watson, Santander, Microsoft, BAE Systems, the Department for Transport, the Office for National Statistics and GCHQ.
Mathematics graduates also go on to do PhD programmes in various areas of mathematics, including pure mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical physics, computer science, and data science, building on the skills and research experience developed throughout the MSc.
Contact us
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- +44 (0) 117 394 1649
- choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk
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