About the course

The MSc by Research is an advanced research degree which provides the opportunity to investigate a project in depth and write a thesis which makes a significant contribution in the field. The research project is however designed to take less time than a Doctorate degree (normally two years, though it is possible to complete the requirements in a single year). It is not intended as a first step towards a DPhil, but rather as an alternative to a DPhil. Few students opt to apply for the MSc by Research unless there are limitations on the time or funding available.

There are no associated lectures, classes or written examinations. Your project can be in any of the subject areas for which supervision is available. The department’s research covers the entire spectrum of mathematics, with subject areas including:

Algebra (primarily group theory and representation theory)

Geometry

Topology

Mathematical biology and ecology

Industrial and applied mathematics (including fluid and solid mechanics, geosciences, mathematical physiology, methodologies, and networks)

Numerical analysis.

You will be asked to outline your research interests when you apply by listing at least one but no more than three of the fields of research above on your application form. More information about the Research Groups in the Mathematical Institute can be found on the department's website. Full instructions for completing this section of the application form can be found in the How to apply section of this page.

You will be expected to acquire transferable skills as part of your training, which will require you to attend courses, lectures, workshops and colloquia. You will have the opportunity to develop other valuable skills and to contribute to the teaching work of the department, both by marking students’ work and later by leading classes of around eight to twelve students.