Scientific Computing: Utrecht University

About the programme

Scientific Computing is a fast-growing, highly interdisciplinary field that brings together methods from numerical analysis, high-performance computing and various application fields; from climate and weather prediction to the evolution of the economy and stock market.

Utrecht University's Mathematical Institute is known nationally and internationally for the high quality of its staff, both in terms of teaching and scientific research. Accordingly, Scientific Computing provides an inspiring study environment. During the programme, students have intensive contact with researchers who enjoy an extensive network of contacts from which students may benefit, for example by attending lectures from visiting mathematicians or by obtaining interesting internships at companies or research institutes.

Career Opportunities

Graduates will have sufficient expertise in Scientific Computing to work in a research and development division in industry, business and many other sectors in a variety of positions, such as scientific programmer, software consultant or researcher.

• Examples of jobs of recently graduated students in Mathematical Sciences are:
• Software developer at Ortec Logistics, working on route planning algorithms;
• Scientific Programmer at the University Medical Centre Utrecht, working on visualisation of CT-scans;
• PhD students in various fields, such as geophysics, medical informatics and scientific computing;

Other career opportunities are:

• Software developer at a stock exchange trading company
• Researcher at a bank's riskmanagement department

Entrance Requirements

Applicants are therefore expected to hold one of the following degrees:

• a BSc with a major in Mathematics
• a BSc with a major in Physics
• a BSc with a major in Computer Science with a strong component in mathematics
• a BSc with a major in Science with a strong component in mathematics

Proficiency in English

All other applicants, including applicants who hold a Dutch HBO diploma (diploma of higher professional education), must provide proof of proficiency in English. To do so, you are required to take one of the following English language tests:

• IELTS, Academic Module. Minimum score: 6.5 overall band, at least 6 for writing. IELTS is the test preferred by Utrecht University.
• TOEFL, Internet based. Minimum score: 93. Institutional scores are not accepted. The TOEFL institution code for Utrecht University is 9062.
• Cambridge Certificates
  • Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English at least a B grade.
  • Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English at least a C grade.