Applied Mathematics: University of Groningen

About the programme
Applied Mathematics is concerned with the development and exploitation of mathematical tools for the analysis and control of technological problems. Mathematical modelling of the problem at hand plays a basic role, followed by (numerical) analysis and (computer) simulation. Interaction with other disciplines is essential.
The Master’s degree programme in Applied Mathematics in Groningen consists of two specializations. The first is Systems, Control and Optimization. This specialization deals with the mathematics behind designing stable controllers for satellites, purification plants or more general technical processes. The second specialization is Computational Science and Numerical Mathematics. The emphasis is on modelling, analysis and simulation of fluid flow problems. Although the applications can be quite diverse, the basic mathematical methods are much the same.
Career prospects
A Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics opens up many job opportunities. During the Master’s programme you will learn to think in a logical, systematic, and problem-oriented way in a multidisciplinary environment. After having finished the programme you will be able to apply mathematics to a technical problem, and hence to work at the interface between theory and practice. These qualities are highly appreciated by employers. Job opportunities are available in industrial companies, research institutes, as well as in universities. Examples of companies looking for applied mathematicians include Gasunie, Philips, Stork, Shell, Corus, KPN and small engineering bureaus. Examples of research institutes are the National Aerospace Laboratory (NLR, the picture on these pages comes from the NLR), WL/Delft Hydraulics, KNMI and TNO. You can start a university career with working as a PhD student, which means working for four years on a research project and writing a thesis. After having successfully defended this thesis, you will be awarded a PhD degree. Afterwards you can continue an academic career or start a career in industry.
Admission requirments

• A Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics
• The Admission Board will decide wether you can be admitted to the Master’s programme. The Board can decide that you have to take some Bachelor’s courses in Applied Mathematics before being admitted to the Master’s programme.
• Sufficient English proficiency is required. Language requirements include an IELTS test score of 6.5 or a TOEFL test score of 580 (paper-based), 237 (computer-based) or 92 (internet-based, iBT).