Technological University Dublin - City Campus

Mathematics - Applied

What is... Applied Mathematics?

The programme MSc in Applied Mathematics is one of two taught postgraduate programmes delivered by the School of Mathematical Sciences. It offers a broad range of topics in applied mathematics and is suitable for applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds. It is designed to cater not only for those who wish to develop an advanced level of mathematical knowledge and practical skills relevant to problem solving in diverse, real-world contexts but also for those that simply wish to develop their understanding and appreciation of a fundamental branch of mathematics.

The programme can be undertaken either full time over 3 semesters (approximately 18 months) or part time over 6 semesters (3 years) and is structured to suit both full-time students and those that are combining study with a career or family life. New entrants can start the programme either in September or January. The programme encourages students to engage in autonomous, self-directed learning whilst providing a supportive environment where lecturers and stage coordinators facilitate and mentor learning.

The programme will emphasise the use of mathematics to solve problems and will build students' mathematical knowledge and their ability to analyse problems and apply advanced mathematical techniques in a rigorous manner. Successful applicants will require a primary degree at second-class or higher classification and will be drawn from computing, engineering, mathematics, physics and other scientific and numerate backgrounds. Graduates of MSc Applied Mathematics will be flexible, highly-qualified, technical professionals with advanced analytical and problem-solving skills suitable to enter, and apply their knowledge in, a wide range of sectors and professions.

The programme is particularly suitable for international applicants and a pre-masters preparation year is also being developed.

Prospective applicants may, in addition, wish to consider and apply for MSc Mathematical Physics in the School of Mathematical Sciences.

The option of studying elements of the programme via distance learning or undertaking individual modules as Continuing Professional Development (CPD) modules may be available. Interested applicants should contact the programme coordinator (Chris.Hills@tudublin.ie) for details.

Other Information
English is not my first language. What level of English proficiency do I require?

The programme requires and IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent. A high level of written English is required. A one-year pre-masters programme is being developed for international students who wish to prepare for the programme including improving their English proficiency. For more information contact the programme coordinator (Chris.Hills@tudublin.ie).

Is my current degree sufficiently mathematical?

The answer is that it depends upon your degree. Each application to the programme is individually assessed and the transcripts provided by applicants are used to determine whether applicants have sufficient mathematical background and knowledge to enter the programme. Please contact the programme coordinator (Chris.Hills@tudublin.ie) if you wish to discuss your particular circumstances.

When does the programme take place?

The programme is delivered within the normal academic calendar of the Institute. The academic calendar comprises two semesters of thirteen weeks of teaching and assessment which run from September to December and January to May with breaks for Christmas and Easter. Examinations take place at the end of Semester I, prior to the start of the next semester, and at the end of Semester II. Reassessments take place in August. There are two opportunities to graduate: October and February.

I would like to study the MSc but do not meet the entry requirements. What can I do?

If you do not meet the entry requirements there may be modules, or a programme of prior study, that would make you eligible for the programme. The School of Mathematical Sciences offers a large number of Continuing Professional Development opportunities. Please contact the programme coordinator (Chris.Hills@tudublin.ie) for more information.

Entry requirements

Students wishing to enrol should normally possess a minimum of the equivalent of an honours degree (level 8 on the NFQ) in mathematics, science, engineering or other numerate discipline at Grade 2.2 or higher where mathematics was studied as a significant component for approximately three years.

The relevance and mathematical content of an applicants primary degree and other experience will be assessed by the admissions team for the programme whose decision is final. Attainment of the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee entry to the programme and all candidates will be assessed against the entry criteria, in the context of the available places on the programme, for their prior learning and on their ability to succeed.

If English is not your first language you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency as detailed on our website. Applicants for this programme should have a minimum IELTS (Academic Version) English Proficiency of 6 overall (or equivalent) with nothing less than 6 in each component.

Duration

1.5 Years Full Time

Each module is delivered over one semester. Part-time students undertake lectures and tutorials two or three evenings per week (from approximately 6.30pm). The Mathematical Laboratory and Research Skills modules combine initial face-to-face delivery on the third evening with online learning. Laboratory sessions to support modules and students' learning are also available on the third evening. Full-time students combine studying a number of daytime modules each semester with the same evening commitment as part-time students.

Careers or further progression

Graduates of the programme are extremely flexible and able to apply advanced mathematical techniques and mathematical problem-solving approaches to a wide variety of problems arising in careers in a diverse range of employment sectors.

In particular, graduates of this programme have enhanced technical and scientific capabilities, analytical and problem solving skills, and are well equipped for high-level careers in industry, commerce, the professions and the public sector. For example, graduates are well suited to careers in finance, information and communication technologies, data analysis, the public sector and teaching.

Applied Mathematics is a research strength of the School of Mathematical Sciences and there are also opportunities for graduates to undertake further research in the TU Dublin or elsewhere.

Further enquiries

Subjects taught

The programme MSc Applied Mathematics comprises ten taught modules (each of one semester duration accumulated over two semesters full time or four semesters part time) followed by a dissertation (studied over one semester full time or four semesters part time). The programme comprises a student work load of 90 ECTS credits and the project contributes 25 ECTS credits. All modules are core and learning is supported by the use of software, group learning, supported practical sessions, seminars and the student library and study facilities.

Exit awards of Postgraduate Diploma (60 ECTS credits) and Postgraduate Certificate (30 ECTS credits) are available.

The following topics are covered in the taught modules:
Methods for Applied Mathematics
Modern Applied Statistical Modelling
Algorithms & Approximation Theory
Mathematical Modelling
Classical Mechanics & Thermodynamics
Special Relativity & Tensor Calculus
Numerical Methods for Differential Equations
Biomathematics
Mathematical Laboratory
Research Skills

The project is a substantial piece of academic written work and will normally be based upon a topic closely related to modules on the programme and may include an extensive literature review. The Research Skills module provides an excellent preparation for the project module and students are supported in this module by an assigned academic supervisor and their peers. Assessment
The taught modules are assessed by a combination of written examinations and continuous assessment undertaken during the semester. Some modules may also involve practical tasks. The assessment of the project module is based upon the written work, feedback and participation during the module and a viva voce examination.

Examinations for Semester 1 modules take place in May and examinations for Semester II modules take place in January. Reassessment takes place in August. Students are required to attend the Institute and be available for examinations.

Comment

Location: City Centre: Grangegorman

Assessment method

Assessment
The taught modules are assessed by a combination of written examinations and continuous assessment undertaken during the semester. Some modules may also involve practical tasks. The assessment of the project module is based upon the written work, feedback and participation during the module and a viva voce examination.

Examinations for Semester I modules take place in January and examinations for Semester II modules take place immediately following the end of teaching in May. Reassessment takes place in August. Students are required to attend the Institute and be available for examinations.