Program Overview

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MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing

The MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing is a one-year master's course providing training in the application of mathematics to a wide range of problems in science and technology.

About the Course

The course places emphasis on the formulation of problems, on the analytical and numerical techniques for a solution, and the computation of useful results. The intended learning outcomes of the MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing are to gain knowledge of:

• core methods of applied mathematics and numerical analysis
• computer programming of mathematical algorithms
• mathematical modelling
• more advanced topics in modelling, methods and numerical analysis
• how to undertake a short research project in an area of applied mathematics
• how to communicate mathematics effectively, both orally and in written form

Course Structure

The course consists of both taught courses and a dissertation. To complete the course, you must complete 12 units. You will accumulate four units in core courses, two units in special topics, two units in case studies, and four units in the dissertation.

Attendance

The course is full-time and requires attendance in Oxford. Full-time students are subject to the University's Residence requirements.

Resources to Support Your Study

As a graduate student, you will have access to the University's wide range of resources, including libraries, museums, galleries, digital resources, and IT services.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Mathematical Institute, and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff.

Assessment

Assessment takes place throughout the course. To complete the course, you must complete 12 units.

• Core courses: Each one-unit core course on mathematical methods or numerical analysis is assessed by written examination taking place in the second half of Trinity term.
• Special topics: Each one-unit special topic culminates in an assessed written report.
• Case study: Each one-unit scientific computing case study is taught in Michaelmas term and is assessed by a written report submitted at the beginning of Hilary term.
• Dissertation: You will produce a dissertation (contributing four units) during Trinity term and the long vacation, and you will have an oral examination on this in mid-September.

Graduate Destinations

Recent destinations include further research into mathematics and related fields, as well as roles in a variety of industries, including data science, mathematical consultancy, finance, software engineering, and scientific research.

Entry Requirements

• Proven and potential academic excellence: A first-class undergraduate degree with honours in a subject with significant mathematical content.
• Degree-level qualifications: As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent.
• GRE General Test scores: No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.
• Other qualifications, evidence of excellence, and relevant experience: Publications are not expected.
• English language proficiency: This course requires proficiency in English at the University's higher level.

Funding

For entry in the academic year, the collegiate University expects to offer over 1,100 full or partial graduate scholarships across a wide range of graduate courses.

Costs

• Annual course fees: The fees for this course are charged on an annual basis.
  • Home: ｣16,220
  • Overseas: ｣43,730
• What do course fees cover?: Course fees cover your teaching, as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies.
• How long do I need to pay course fees?: Course fees are payable each year, for the duration of your fee liability.
• Additional costs: There are no compulsory elements of this course that entail additional costs beyond fees and living costs.

College Preference

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. The following colleges accept students on the MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing:

• Balliol College
• Brasenose College
• Christ Church
• Corpus Christi College
• Exeter College
• Jesus College
• Kellogg College
• Lady Margaret Hall
• Linacre College
• Lincoln College
• Magdalen College
• Mansfield College
• Merton College
• New College
• Oriel College
• Pembroke College
• The Queen's College
• Reuben College
• St Anne's College
• St Catherine's College
• St Cross College
• St Edmund Hall
• St Hilda's College
• St Hugh's College
• St John's College
• St Peter's College
• Somerville College
• University College
• Wadham College
• Wolfson College
• Worcester College
• Wycliffe Hall

How to Apply

• Before you apply: Our guide to getting started provides general advice on how to prepare for and start your application.
• Application fee waivers: An application fee of ｣75 is payable for each application to this course. Application fee waivers are available for certain applicants.
• Do I need to contact anyone before I apply?: You are welcome to make contact with the Course Director before you apply in order to find out more about the course.
• Completing your application: You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents.

Admission Status

Open to applications for entry in

Deadlines

• 12:00 midday UK time on:
  • Friday 14 November 2025: Applications more likely to receive earlier decisions
  • Wednesday 28 January 2026: Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships
  • Tuesday 3 March 2026: Final application deadline for entry in

Further Information and Enquiries

This course is offered by the Mathematical Institute. Advice about contacting the department can be found in the How to apply section of this page.