Mathematics

The Mathematics undergraduate program at the University of St Andrews offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to develop students' understanding of mathematical theory, problem-solving skills, and analytical thinking. Throughout the course, students engage with a broad range of topics including pure mathematics, applied mathematics, algebra, calculus, geometry, number theory, and mathematical analysis. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, finance, data analysis, and research. Students benefit from the expertise of distinguished faculty members and cutting-edge research facilities, fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and innovation. The curriculum is structured to allow flexibility, enabling students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career aspirations. In addition to classroom learning, students engage in independent research projects, group work, and seminars that enhance their critical thinking and communication skills. The program also encourages international perspectives and collaboration, with opportunities for study abroad and participation in global mathematical conferences and workshops. Graduates of the Mathematics program at St Andrews are well-equipped with quantitative and logical skills that are highly valued across multiple sectors. With a duration of three or four years depending on the chosen path, the program ensures a thorough preparation for professional careers or postgraduate study. The university's supportive academic environment, combined with state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant student community, makes the Mathematics undergraduate program at St Andrews an excellent choice for aspiring mathematicians and problem solvers.

The programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a dissertation (15,000 words) over the summer months. Most modules for the MSc in Mathematics are traditional semester-long lecture courses with end of semester exams, but some modules have a large element of continuous assessment. Class sizes range from 10 to 60 students, depending on the module.

The School of Mathematics and Statistics is well equipped with computing facilities (including a large parallel computing cluster) and an on-site library.

For an MSc in Mathematics, students take at least 90 credits at 5000-level Mathematics and Statistics modules. The remaining 30 credits can be taken from the School's 3000-level and 4000-level modules. At least 90 credits of the total of 120 credits of the taught part should be Pure Mathematics or Applied Mathematics modules.

Optional postgraduate-level modules

• Advanced Symbolic Computation
• Advanced Topics in the History of Mathematics
• Advanced Statistical Inference
• Estimating Animal Abundance
• Statistical Modelling
• Data Analysis
• Advanced Data Analysis
• Applied Multivariate Analysis
• Advanced Analytical Techniques
• Advanced Computation Techniques
• Advanced Fluid Dynamics
• Advanced Solar Theory
• Advanced Financial Mathematics
• Advanced Combinatorics
• Semigroups
• Topics in Groups
• Measure and Ergodic Theory
• Lie Algebras
• Topics in Geometry and Analysis
• Advanced Bayesian Inference
• Galois Theory
• Mathematical Biology 2
• Independent Study Module
• Professional Skills for Mathematical Scientists

Dissertation

During the final part the course, from June to mid-August, students complete a 15,000-word dissertation to be submitted by the end of August. Dissertations are supervised by members of academic staff who will advise on the choice of subject and provide guidance throughout the progress of the dissertation.

If students choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma. By choosing an exit award, you will finish your degree at the end of the second semester of study and receive a PGDip instead of an MSc.

Requirements

• Postgraduate candidates will be expected to hold a Russian Bachelor’s degree - Diplom Bakalavra/ Bakalavr Diploma or a Specialist Degree issued by the Russian Federation -  Specialist Diploma / Diplom Specialista.  In either case, students should have completed their degree with an average mark (grade) of 4 or higher on the Russian 5-point marking scale.  Students with higher level qualifications such as Magistr, the Kandidat Nauk, would also be considered for postgraduate study.
• CV
• Letter of intent (300 to 500 words)
• Two original signed academic references
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates 
• IELTS 7.0

Scholarships

• Russia Global Education Program (GEP)
• Accommodation Award
• Chevening Scholarships 
• Thomas and Margaret Roddan Trust Bursary 

Mathematics at the University of St Andrews is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both pure and applied mathematics. The programme offers a variety of modules that encompass fundamental topics such as calculus, algebra, geometry, and differential equations, as well as advanced areas including mathematical analysis, topology, and mathematical logic. Students have the opportunity to develop strong analytical, problem-solving, and computational skills crucial for careers in academia, industry, finance, data science, and technology sectors. The course structure is thoughtfully designed to integrate lecture-based learning with tutorials, practical sessions, and independent research projects, encouraging critical thinking and independent learning. Throughout their studies, students benefit from a vibrant academic community, state-of-the-art facilities, and access to seminars and workshops led by leading mathematicians. The program also emphasizes the importance of mathematical communication and teamwork, preparing graduates for diverse professional environments. Students may have options for specializations or pathways such as pure mathematics, applied mathematics, or statistics, allowing them to tailor their degree to their interests and career goals. The university's supportive academic staff and resources foster an engaging and challenging educational experience. Graduates of the program are well-equipped with mathematical competencies and transferable skills, opening doors to careers in research, education, finance, technology, and government agencies. The program’s duration is typically three years for an undergraduate Bachelor's degree, with options for extensions, joint degrees, or postgraduate study. Overall, the Mathematics program at St Andrews aims to cultivate a deep understanding of mathematical principles and their applications, encouraging innovation and intellectual growth in a dynamic academic environment.