Mathematics

Course Overview

The MSc in Mathematics is a flexible one-year programme. The programme is primarily designed for two types of students:



1. Students with a 4-year degree in Mathematics who want to upskill in mathematical areas related to employment e.g. in the communications and data industries or the financial sector.



2. Students with a 3-year joint BA in Mathematics, or with degrees in cognate disciplines (Computing, Science, or Engineering) incorporating a significant mathematical component, who want to upskill in Mathematics before embarking on careers in teaching, academia, or the industry.

Course Outline

The programme consists of three parts: core modules, modules in a chosen area of focus, and a project.



Students take 30 ECTS of core modules covering different areas of contemporary mathematics such as algebra, geometry and discrete mathematics. Students will learn to apply mathematical theories to tasks in data analysis, decision making, and data security. The core modules also provide an opportunity for students to acquire skills in widely-used software such as Python and R. 2024/2025, we plan to offer the following core modules:



- Geometric Foundations of Data Analysis I (Semester 1)

- Mathematics for Decision Making I (Semester 1)

- Algebraic Foundations of Quantum Computing (Semester 1)

- Geometric Foundations of Data Analysis II (Semester 2)

- Mathematics for Decision Making II (Semester 2)

- de Brún Centre Postgraduate Summer School (in May)



In addition to their core modules, students choose to focus on mathematical areas by selecting 30 ECTS of modules from a wide range of possible options. While students are free to select and combine individual modules according to their mathematical interests, they can also choose one of several recommended focus pathways. These pathways consist of collections of mathematically related modules. Topics of focus pathways include:



- Computing.

- Communication.

- Finance.

- Pure mathematics.



Finally, students gain deep and specialised knowledge of a topic by working on a 30 ECTS project supervised by a member of academic staff in their chosen focus area.



Students of this programme will be mentored by the Programme Director throughout the year. Students will receive advice on how to choose among different focus pathways and how to find a suitable project supervisor. They will also be alerted to relevant career opportunities.

Students should hold at least an upper Second-Class Honours degree (or equivalent) with a substantial mathematical component containing at least 30 ECTS of mathematical modules.

Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.



An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).

1 year full-time.

Next start date September 2025



Closing Date

No set closing date. Offers made on a continuous basis.

Career Opportunities

There is a strong demand for graduates with mathematical skills, and the ability to apply them, in financial institutions, business firms and semi-state bodies. Apart from receiving advanced mathematical training, graduates of this programme will have learnt to apply mathematical theories to tasks in areas such as data analysis, decision making, and data security. They will also be familiar with various types of widely-used mathematical software.



The School of Mathematics, Statistics and Applied Mathematics offers a lively environment for any student wishing to pursue advanced studies in mathematics. We have approximately 40 faculty members across four disciplines: Mathematics, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, and Bioinformatics.



We are well recognised within University of Galway as a very student-friendly School. Several of our members have been formally recognised for their teaching excellence.



Our faculty members are internationally recognised researchers. We hold regular seminars in which local and visiting researchers present their latest work, and we typically host two or three international conferences in various mathematical disciplines throughout the year