MSc in Mathematical Sciences

University of Oxford

About the course: The MSc in Mathematical Sciences, known as the Oxford Master's in Mathematical Sciences (OMMS), provides a broad and flexible training in mathematical sciences and gives students with a keen interest in the mathematical sciences the chance to study a selection of interesting and varied master's-level courses. Oxford has a world-class reputation in the mathematical sciences, and this master's offers students the opportunity to join Oxford's current fourth-year undergraduates and to work with an international group of peers, including other mathematical leaders of the future. This course draws on subjects 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. You have the opportunity to choose from many options, tailoring the programme to your individual interests and requirements. This course runs from the beginning of October through to the end of June. Teaching and learning: You will attend at least six units worth of courses (with one unit corresponding to a 16-hour lecture course supported by classes) in addition to writing a dissertation (worth two units). You will be encouraged to work collaboratively in classes, to develop your understanding of the material. Those wishing to extend themselves further might take one or two additional courses. Depending on how many courses you take in total and how they split between terms, you can expect to attend two, three or four (or, in exceptional cases, five) lecture courses per term. Each lecture course has two one hour lectures per week supplemented by four 90 minute classes per term. The remainder of your study time in the first two terms should be spent on self study, consolidating on the material covered in lectures, working through the problem sheets set for each class and working independently on yourdissertation. In the third term you will mostly work independently on your revision for exams, although optional revision classes will also be available to help guide your studies. Assessment: The majority of lecture courses on the master’s are assessed by invigilated written examinations, although a minority of courses are assessed by a take-home exam known as a mini-project. The dissertation work culminates in a written report of approximately 25 to 35 pages and constitutes two of the minimum eight units you are required to take to complete the course. Graduate destinations: It is expected that graduates will pursue a rich diversity of careers across academia and a wide range of industries.