University College Dublin

MA Mathematics


Graduate Taught (level 9 nfq, credits 120)


The M.A. in Mathematics is specifically designed to provide students with solid mathematical knowledge. Students acquire a much sought after qualification that can be applied to a wide variety of careers.


Wide selection of taught modules incorporating many areas of mathematics.


Exposure to state-of-the-art mathematical topics.


Opportunity for independent study in an area or application of interest through a minor thesis under the guidance of an individual supervisor.


The MA contains two streams – Mathematics or Applied and Computational Mathematics. Both streams offer an attractive alternative to the more standard 24-month pathway of the Higher Diploma followed by the MSc in Mathematical Sciences. On successful completion of the programme you will have the knowledge, experience and confidence to pursue a PhD in mathematics, or a related discipline, have attained an advanced and modern mathematical and computational training, developed excellent presentation skills and acquired a much soughtafter qualification that can be applied to a wide variety of careers in the quantitative, financial, and IT sectors.


Vision and Values Statement


This programme is aimed at graduates whose level of mathematical training is high, but below that of a four-year honours BSc degree in Mathematics, and who have demonstrated mathematical flair. It enables them to reach in sixteen months a level of mathematical knowledge broadly equivalent to that of MSc graduates. In the first part of the programme, students study background material appropriate to a four-year BSc, thereby enabling them as the course progresses to study mathematics at the graduate level. Additionally, the programme aims to equip the students with the skills necessary to carry out research at the frontier of mathematical knowledge.We expect our students to gain a thorough understanding of algebra and analysis at the graduate level, as well as a broad understanding of areas of modern mathematics under active research.We expect our students to become autonomous learners and researchers capable of setting their own research agenda. They will be capable of solving relevant problems in the language of mathematics. Our graduates will be suitably qualified for research at the PhD level in an area of mathematics, and will be valued for their technical knowledge and research skills. Equally, our graduates will be in demand by employers for their ability to use the tools they have learned to explain, describe and predict. We value students whom already have some mathematical training who are motivated to take this understanding further. We aim to provide a teaching and learning environment that develops confidence and independence through a wide variety of interactive formats, both inside and outside the classroom.


Programme Outcomes


Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the foundations of mathematics, including graduate algebra and analysis


Demonstrate familiarity with the areas of mathematics currently under active research


Undertake excellent research at an appropriate level, including survey and synthesize the known literature


Use the language of logic to reason correctly and make deductions


Approach problems in an analytical, precise and rigorous way


Explore and manipulate abstract concepts


Apply mathematical reasoning and techniques to formulate and solve problems


Model real-world problems in a mathematical framework


Analyze and interpret data, find patterns and draw conclusions


Work independently and be able to pursue a research agenda


Give oral presentations of technical mathematical material at a level appropriate for the audience


Prepare a written report on technical mathematical content in clear and precise language