Mathematics

The research-oriented Master's programme in Mathematics enables students to reach the forefront of knowledge in one of the following major fields of pure and applied mathematics:

• algebra, number theory and logic
• analysis and differential equations
• discrete mathematics
• geometry and topology
• numerical mathematics and scientific computing
• stochastics

The two-year programme offers basic and advanced lecture courses and seminars taught in English.
Participants finish the programme with a Master's thesis.
Students with a strong interest in applications of mathematics in other sciences are encouraged to study a secondary subject. Moreover, students have the possibility of honing their practical skills in an internal or external internship.
The Master's programme is offered by the Mathematical Institute, the Institute for Applied Mathematics, the Research Institute for Discrete Mathematics and the Institute for Numerical Simulation. Bonn is regarded as one of the best places in Europe for a mathematical education, a fact underlined by the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics, a Cluster of Excellence resulting from a federal competition.

Educational organisation

The two-year programme offers basic and advanced modules in a large number of areas within mathematics and is completed with a Master's thesis. Students compose a study plan according to their own interests. General and exemplary study plans can be found on our website.
The modules are divided into the following categories:

• lecture course modules
• graduate seminar modules
• practical training course modules
• Master's thesis and Master's thesis seminar

Lecture courses are often accompanied by problem sessions or tutorials.
In graduate seminars the topic is taught in presentations given by the participating students who learn how to prepare and give a mathematical talk.
Practical training courses can be either practical teaching courses, external internships, or one of the various practical programming courses.
For the Master's thesis the typical preparation time is 12 months. The preparation is accompanied by the Master's thesis seminar, where the students give talks about their progress.
Students interested in applications of mathematics in other sciences or industry are encouraged to take a secondary subject.

Study abroad unit(s)

Students have the possibility of spending a semester abroad, for instance by participating in the ERASMUS programme or other exchange programmes.

Internships

Internships are an optional part of the programme (practical training course).

Forms of assessment

Lecture course examinations are either written or oral. They typically earn 5 to 9 CP.
A graduate seminar is rated at 6 CP. In graduate seminars, the participant's talk is the seminar examination.
Practical training courses (9 CP) are examined by the designated examiner of the course.
The Master's thesis (30 CP) is graded by the adviser and another mathematics professor.

Course objectives

After completing the programme, students will be able to work on mathematical problems independently and apply their mathematical knowledge in new situations. Training in this skill is gained in particular by preparing talks for graduate seminars and from independent work on the Master's thesis.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English language skills, e.g. with a TOEFL certificate. Our requirement for the TOEFL is 550 points (paper-based), or 215 points (computer-based), 79 points (internet-based). Our requirement for IELTS is a score of 6.0.

Academic requirements

For being admitted to our Master's programme in Mathematics, you have to:
1. hold a Bachelor's degree in mathematics, or an equivalent degree with good grades (comparable to the German grade 2.5 or better),
2. prove that you earned 120 ECTS credit points from mathematical modules and
3. prove your knowledge of English.
Furthermore, non-European applicants may be invited for a qualifying test.

Enrolment fees

Currently 270 EUR per semester
Fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport within North Rhine-Westphalia.

Costs of living

Approx. 800 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

Job opportunities

Students of the Master's programme in Mathematics can apply for various student assistant posts after their arrival in Bonn. Typical jobs include library help, programming or teaching assistantships. Please note that proficiency in German may be a requirement.

Funding opportunities within the university

The Bonn International Graduate School in Mathematics offers a Qualifying Scholarship for their PhD programme. These scholarships are intended to attract students with an excellent Bachelor's degree in mathematics from outside Germany who wish to prepare for the PhD programme by taking courses from our Master's programme. Students have the option of completing a regular Master's degree in this context if they so wish.
http://www.bigs-math.uni-bonn.de/application/funding-possibilities/

Arrival support

We will send information in advance on how to plan your arrival in Bonn.

Services and support for international students

Assistance in finding accommodation and with administrative formalities is offered by the Department of Mathematics or the university's International Office. Depending on the number of applicants, a pre-term German language course may be organised. Furthermore, the International Office offers a "study-buddy" system.
International students are assigned to a professor from their mathematical area of interest as a mentor to help with orientation within the mathematics curriculum and with study plan preparation.

Accommodation

Accommodation in a student residence can be arranged for international students. German students interested in accommodation in a student residence should apply directly to the Studentenwerk (http://www.studentenwerk-bonn.de).