Mathematical Modelling & Self-Learning Systems

Course Outline
Machine learning is an important and newly emerging technique in many areas of applied science such as applied mathematics, engineering, computer science and statistics.

In particular, machine learning systems are innovative approaches to mathematical modelling which use differential equations at their foundation. A particular strength of this approach is that it ultimately allows you to design applications that can adapt to a changing environment. This is a new and rapidly developing area at the interface between applied mathematics and machine learning.

The primary aim of our mathematical modelling programme at UCC is to provide you with training in the use and development of modern numerical methods and machine-learning software. You will develop and apply new skills to real-world problems using mathematical ideas and techniques together with software tailored for complex networks and self-learning systems. While there is a strong focus on modern applications, our graduates will gain in-demand skills in mathematical modelling, problem-solving, scientific computing, dynamic machine learning, complex networks and communication of mathematical ideas to a non-technical audience.

We also teach general hands-on skills such as mathematical typesetting, mathematical writing, desktop and web-based mathematical software development, and the use of computer languages and packages such as C#, R, Python and TensorFlow – all of which are highly prized by employers in this field.

Course Practicalities
We place great emphasis on hands-on practical skills. There is a computer laboratory allocated solely for the use of MSc students. PCs are preloaded with all the required software and tools. Teaching hours, tutorials and practical demonstrations, usually take place in the morning. The rest of the time, you are expected to do exercises, assignments and generally put in the time required to acquire key skills. For online modules, students are advised to have access to a laptop/home computer with an internet connection, modern browser, word processing and spreadsheet software.

Programme Content
This is a full-time, blended learning programme running for 12 months from the date of first registration for the programme.

Modules (90 credits)

Part I (60 credits)

AM6004 Numerical Methods and Applications (5 credits)
AM6005 Nonlinear Dynamics (5 credits)
AM6007 Scientific Computing with Numerical Examples (10 credits)
AM6015 Computational Techniques with Networks (5 credits)
AM6016 Dynamic Machine Learning with Applications (5 credits)
AM6017 Complex and Neural Networks (5 credits)
AM6020 Open Source Infrastructure for Mathematical Modelling & Big Data (5 credits)
CS6421 Deep Learning (5 credits)
EE6024 Engineering machine Learning Solutions (5 credits)
ST4060 Statistical Methods for Machine Learning I (5 credits)
ST4061 Statistical Methods for Machine Learning II (5 credits)
Students who have taken any of the above modules in a previous degree must select alternative modules (subject to availability and timetabling) in consultation with the Programme Coordinator.

Part II (30 credits)

AM6021 Dissertation in Mathematical Modelling and Machine Learning (30 credits)
See the University Calendar (Mathematical Modelling & Machine Learning) for further course information.

Modules

Further details on the modules listed above can be found in our Book of Modules. Any modules listed above are indicative of the current set of modules for this course but are subject to change from year to year.

University Calendar

You can find the full academic content for the current year of any given course in our University Calendar.

Candidates must have obtained at least a Second Class Honours Grade II in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) or equivalent in a numerate discipline (i.e., commensurate with science or engineering programmes).

Candidates are expected to have taken courses in mathematics, applied mathematics or statistics at university level, and be familiar with calculus, vectors, matrices and elementary statistics. They are expected to have sufficient background in university-level mathematics as assessed by the course coordinator. In the case of competition for places selection will be made on the basis of primary degree results and/or interview. For online modules, students are advised to have access to a laptop/home computer with an internet connection, modern browser, word processing and spreadsheet software.

Candidates from Grandes Écoles Colleges are also eligible to apply if they are studying a cognate discipline in an ENSEA or EFREI Graduate School and are eligible to enter the final year (M2) of their programme.

All candidates must ultimately be approved by the director of the MSc (Mathematical Modelling and Machine Learning) programme.

English Language Requirements
Applicants that are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements. Please visit our PG English Language Requirements page for more information.

For applicants with qualifications completed outside of Ireland
Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements. For more information see our Qualification Comparison page.

International/Non-EU Applicants
For full details of the non-EU application procedure visit our how to apply pages for international students.

In UCC, we use the term programme and course interchangeably to describe what a person has registered to study in UCC and its constituent colleges, schools, and departments.

Note that not all courses are open to international/non-EU applicants, please check the fact file above. For more information contact the International Office.

The closing date for non-EU applications is 30 June 2023

How Do I Apply
1. Check Dates: Check the opening and closing dates for the application process in the fact file boxes at the top of the page.

For Irish and EU applicants we operate a rounds system and you can check the rounds closing dates here.
Note that not all our programmes are subject to the rounds system so check the opening and closing dates for your specific programme in the fact file boxes above.

2. Gather Documents: Scanned copies of supporting documents have to be uploaded to the UCC online application portal and include:

Original qualification documents listed on your application including transcripts of results from institutions other than UCC.
Any supplementary items requested for your course if required.

3. Apply Online: Apply online via the UCC online application portal. Note the majority of our courses have a non-refundable €50 application fee.

Any questions? Use our web enquiry form to contact us.

1 year full-time.

Start Date 7 September 2020

Skills and Careers Information
Graduates with quantitative skills and expertise in self-learning algorithms are in high demand in the industry according to the Government Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN). Demand for these skills is projected to rise over the coming years not just in Ireland but in the EU and globally. Graduates from a similar MSc have secured jobs in the following areas: banking, financial trading, consultancy, online gambling firms, software development, logistics, data analysis, and with companies such as AIB, McAfee, Fexco, DeCare Systems, MpStor, the Tyndall Institute, Matchbook.com, First Derivatives, and KPMG.