University of Oxford

The Oxford Masters in Mathematical Sciences (OMMS) provides a broad and flexible training in the mathematical sciences and offers students with a keen interest in the mathematical sciences the opportunity to work with an international group of peers, including other mathematical leaders of the future. The course runs from the beginning of October through to the end of June. OMMS students can tailor the programme to their individual interests and requirements by choosing from many options in mathematics, statistics, and computer science: from number theory, geometry and algebra to genetics and mathematical physiology; from probability and mathematical geoscience to data mining and machine learning. The compulsory dissertation provides an opportunity to develop research techniques as well as presentation and scientific communication skills.

The MSc in Mathematical and Theoretical Physics is a high-level postgraduate course that takes students from a standard undergraduate degree in Mathematics or Physics to the point where they can do original research. It is a joint course between the Mathematical Institute and the Theoretical Physics department at Oxford, combining topics from both disciplines specially blended together for a truly interdisciplinary programme. The course runs from the beginning of October through to the end of June, and the four main areas covered by the course are: Quantum Field Theory, Particle Physics and String Theory; Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics; Theoretical Astrophysics, Plasma Physics and Physics of Continuous Media; and Mathematical Foundations of Theoretical Physics. Students have great flexibility and can chose one of these areas, or any combination of them.

Oxford University’s MSc course in Mathematics and Foundations of Computer Science is a full-time programme that runs from early October through to the following September. It is aimed at students seeking a rigorous and intellectually stimulating experience in the realms of mathematics and computer science. The course is well-suited for individuals who possess a strong foundation in both subjects and have a genuine passion for exploring their interconnections. Prospective students should have a keen interest in abstract reasoning, problem-solving, and a desire to delve into the theoretical underpinnings of computer science. This program attracts students who aspire to deepen their understanding of advanced mathematical concepts and their applications in the field of computer science. It is ideal for those with aspirations in academia, research, or pursuing careers in industries where technical skills in mathematics and computer science are highly valued. The dissertation research projects allow students to pursue a novel research project on a topic that they agree on with an academic supervisor.

The MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing aims to train graduates with a strong mathematical background to develop and apply their skills to the solution of real problems. By the end of the course students should be able to formulate a well-posed problem in mathematical terms from a possibly sketchy verbal description, carry out appropriate mathematical analysis, select or develop an appropriate numerical method, write a computer program which gives sensible answers to the problem, and present and interpret these results. Particular emphasis is placed on the need for all these parts in the problem-solving process, and on the fact that they frequently interact and cannot be carried out sequentially. The course lasts for 12 months and assessment is by a mixture of written examinations and short written reports, as well as a compulsory dissertation which students work on for about four months.

Oxford University’s MSc In Advanced Computer Science is a full-time programme that runs from early October through to the following September. The MSc in Advanced Computer Science at Oxford has been designed to teach a range of advanced topics to graduates of computer science and other mathematical disciplines, and is designed to combine theory and practice. Entrants to the course will come from either a computer science or mathematical background. You may be a recent graduate in computer science and will supplement your knowledge with the kind of sound mathematical basis which is not always found in undergraduate courses. If you are a graduate in mathematics you will apply your training in the context of a rigorous application of the fundamental techniques of computer science. The course culminates in an agreed project where students can pursue a particular academic interest.

The MSc in Mathematics and Foundations of Computer Science, run jointly by the Mathematical Institute and the Department of Computer Science is a full time course which 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. Apart from the dissertation about 75% is taught content and 25% is self-directed learning. 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 mathematical and logical design and concurrency.

A DPhil is Oxford’s name for a PhD – a higher research degree which allows you to make an original contribution to mathematics in the form of a thesis. A DPhil takes at least three years to complete, and around two thirds of our postgraduate leavers go on into academia (according to the latest destination data). During your DPhil, you will be supervised by at least one academic, although some students will have more than one supervisor (particularly if they are working across disciplines). You will begin to do research straight away and there is no prescribed taught component. However, you are very welcome to attend seminars and you can choose from a wide variety of taught courses and skills training to enhance your broader mathematical knowledge and develop your career. There may also be journal clubs or seminar series specific to your area of study. If you enjoy doing mathematics, and would like to be part of a lively and world-class research institute, then you should take a look at the research groups to see if they align with your own interests. 

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