What's it like to study for an MSc Mathematics at Surrey?

Choose Surrey and you’ll be joining a diverse, international community of students with a shared love of mathematics, and learning from academics who are committed to helping you reach your goals.  

Our MSc Mathematics class sizes are relatively small, meaning you get plenty of individual time and attention. And our staff run a relaxed, open-door policy so you can always drop in to chat about anything you need. 

We learn together, we grow together - but ultimately, it’s your academic qualification and future success we’re invested in. 

Our MSc Mathematics courses

• MSc Mathematics
• MSc Financial Data Science

Mathematics at Surrey

Mathematics is a subject founded on established theories and principles, and it’s how these rules relate to the real world which is the focus of your study. 

Our MSc Mathematics programme is studied full-time over one academic year, comprising of two semesters. In Semester 1, you can choose to study up to four modules out of eight options; in Semester 2, you’ll study up to four modules out of nine options.  

These will be followed by an extended research project conducted over the summer under the supervision of a member of staff, which culminates with you writing your MSc dissertation. 

The taught courses and dissertation topics available to you are closely aligned with some of the activities of the research groups within the School of Mathematics and Physics. These include: 

Research groups 

Our School of Mathematics and Physics runs six research groups including the Fundamental Mathematics Group and the Mathematics at the Interface Group. 

Led by Dr Cesare Tronci, the Fundamental Mathematics Group focuses on both pure and applied mathematics, and covers areas including algebra, analysis, differential equations, geometry and their offshoots. 

Professor Phillip Aston oversees our Mathematics at the Interface Group, which researches a diverse range of topics such as applied mathematical modelling, data analytics and statistics, and mathematical physics including quantum field theory and gravity. 

In addition to our research groups, you can find networking and career opportunities at the University owned Surrey Research Park. The Park is home to over 200 businesses large and small, covering a range of sectors, and conveniently located next to our Manor Park campus. 

Surrey Mathematics graduates 

Our MSc Mathematics graduates are primed to launch their careers in any number of exciting industries and are especially well suited to: 

In addition to these more conventional areas, an advanced Mathematics degree can open a more diverse range of opportunities including game design, astronomy or meteorology. Our MSc also provides good preparation for doctoral studies and many past students have progressed to study at PhD level.  

Surrey alumni are highly sought after by employers in a wide range of fields. Our latest statistics show that 94% of our mathematics postgraduate students are in employment or further study, with an average starting salary of over £37K (Graduate Outcomes 2024, HESA). 

Life outside the classroom 

Ask any of our students what they love most about being here, and they’re almost certain to talk about our award-winning campus. 

“The campus is awesome – it’s environmentally friendly, with lovely trees lined up by the roads and green areas everywhere. It’s just like living in a small community – it has grocery stores, coffee shops, eateries, bars, night clubs and a farmers’ market.”  Hadiza, Politics PhD student. 

When it’s time for a change of scenery, the thriving, historic town of Guildford is only a short walk away, and surrounded by beautiful countryside for those who like to hit the hiking trails. Plus, the big city lights of London are just over half an hour away by train, with Gatwick airport within easy reach for international travel. 

If you like to stay active, then the University owned Surrey Sports Park is the place for you. Featuring world-class facilities, the sports park is home to professional sports teams including Harlequins FC rugby and Surrey Storm netball, plus of course our very own Team Surrey sports teams. Surrey students benefit from a range of discounted, flexible membership options. 

Careers support 

No matter what stage of your career you’re at, our highly experienced, award winning careers team can provide you with invaluable support and information when you’re looking for your next opportunity. 

“Surrey has an enviable record in the graduate jobs market, with consistently large numbers of graduates going into high-skilled jobs when they leave.” Alastair McCall, editor of The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide. 

As a graduate from the University of Surrey, you’ll receive careers support for up to three years after you complete your studies. In addition, you’ll have lifetime access to Surrey Pathfinder, your digital hub giving you 24-hour access for careers appointments and event bookings, jobs and interactive development tools. 

As a Surrey alumni, you’ll join a global community of more than 148,000 graduates in 185 countriess, giving you lifelong membership to yet another valuable career, social and community network! 

Financial support and scholarships 

We have a range of scholarships and bursary options which could help during your time at Surrey.  

University of Surrey Rankings 

You can find more information about Surrey by checking out our postgraduate digital prospectus. If you have any questions about our admissions process, please send us a message here. 

We hope to see you in September!