MSc Pure Mathematics: The University of Manchester

Course description

This programme aims to provide you with a rigorous training in a range of topics in pure mathematics, including: analysis, algebra, dynamical systems and ergodic theory, geometry and topology. It aims to prepare you for either the PhD programme or to work in industry as a professional mathematician.

Course aims

This one-year taught postgraduate programme leads to the degree of MSc by examination and dissertation. The aim of the programme is to provide training in the range of topics in pure mathematics, to encourage a sophisticated and critical approach to mathematics, and to prepare students who have the ability and desire to follow careers as professional mathematicians in industry or research.

Module details

Students attend taught course units from the beginning of the academic year until late Spring. Written examinations are taken at the end of January for the first semester course units, and the end of May for the second semester course units. The remaining months are spent preparing a dissertation on an advanced topic in pure mathematics, normally of current research interest, chosen by each student in consultation with his or her supervisor.

The MSc programme can also be offered part-time, taken over a period of two years. There is some flexibility in the precise arrangements for this programme, but students would normally attend one or two lecture courses each semester for three or four semesters, before commencing work on their dissertation.

Topics covered in lecture modules include: group theory, representation theory, dynamical systems and ergodic theory, measure theory and dimension, functional analysis, algebraic topology, differential topology, hyperbolic geometry, Lie algebras, and number theory.

Career opportunities

The programmes will prepare students for a broad range of careers in the financial sector requiring high quantitative and mathematical skills. The programme would also provide an excellent background for students wishing to pursue advanced postgraduate research in this area.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview: The entry requirement to the programmes is normally a good honours degree in mathematics, computer science or a mathematically-related discipline or an equivalent overseas qualification in a mathematical subject.

English language: Students whose first language is not English require a minimum score of IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 570 (paper-based) with not less than 5.0 in the TOEFL essay section of the test or 90 (ibtTOEFL).