Program Overview

MASt in Mathematics (Mathematical Statistics)

Overview

The MASt in Mathematics (Mathematical Statistics) is a nine-month taught master's course in mathematics, commonly referred to as Part III. It is an excellent preparation for mathematical research and a valuable course in mathematics and its applications for those who want further training before taking posts in industry, teaching, or research establishments.

Course Structure

• The course is designed to cover advanced parts of the subjects that are not normally covered in a first-degree course, but which are an indispensable preliminary to independent study and research.
• Students have a wide choice of the combination of courses they take, though naturally, they tend to select groups of cognate courses.
• Examples classes and associated marking of (unassessed) example sheets are provided as complementary support to lectures.
• The main emphasis is on lecture courses, and assessment is almost entirely based on written exams, which are taken at the end of the academic year starting in the last week of May, alongside a mathematical essay, normally due in early May.

Learning Outcomes

After completing the MASt (Part III), students will be expected to have:

• Studied advanced material in the mathematical sciences to a level not normally covered in a first degree.
• Further developed the capacity for independent study of mathematics and problem-solving at a higher level.
• Undertaken an extended essay normally chosen from a list covering a wide range of topics.
• Acquired general transferable skills relevant to mathematics as outlined in the Faculty Transferable Skills Statement.

Admission and Application

• Students admitted from outside Cambridge to the Part III are admitted to the Master of Advanced Study (MASt).
• Cambridge students continuing from the Cambridge Mathematical Tripos for a fourth-year are admitted to the Master of Mathematics (MMath).
• The requirements and course structure for MASt and the MMath are the same.
• Applications to study in either of the Mathematics Departments will be considered on a case-by-case basis and offer of a place will usually include an academic condition based on Part III results.

Key Information

• Duration: 9 months full-time
• Study Mode: Taught
• Degree: Master of Advanced Study
• Department: Department of Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics
• Start Date: October 1, 2026
• Application Deadline: February 3, 2026
• Funding Deadline: January 7, 2026 (Course Funding Deadline), October 15, 2025 (Gates Cambridge US round only)

Similar Courses

• Mathematics (Pure Mathematics) MASt
• Mathematics (Theoretical Physics) MASt
• Mathematics (Applied Mathematics) MASt
• Mathematics MPhil
• Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics PhD