Applied Mathematical Sciences (2 years) MSc

Heriot-Watt is a leader in applied mathematics research and education. Our faculty is at the forefront of many areas, including mathematical biology and ecology, machine learning, data science, financial modelling, and more.

This 2 year master's programme aims to provide students with the cutting-edge mathematical and statistical skills needed for success in today's data-driven world. Through a diverse curriculum and real-world projects, students will gain a solid theoretical foundation as well as hands-on experience applying mathematical concepts to tackle complex challenges across industries.

Whether your interests lie in mathematical biology and ecology, artificial intelligence, big data analytics or other emerging fields, this programme will prepare you with the sophisticated analytical abilities and computational tools to launch an impactful career.

The 2-year MSc breakdown
The first year (Stage 1) of this two year MSc Programme is a pre-masters year that will equip you with a solid, theoretical and practical foundation in applied mathematics. The second year (Stage 2) is the same as our current one-year MSc Programme in Applied Mathematical Sciences which is designed to equip students with the modern, transferrable mathematical skills to prepare them for careers in industry and research.

International students: please note our minimum IELTS entry requirement is 5.5 in all sections. The whole two year programme only requires one visa. We encourage applications from a broad range of technical backgrounds.

The Maxwell Institute of Mathematical Sciences
We are part of the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, a joint research institute
bringing together within a single body the research activities of:

• The Department of Mathematics at Heriot-Watt University.
• The Department of Actuarial Mathematics and Statistics at Heriot-Watt University.
• The School of Mathematics at the University of Edinburgh.
• We are part of the Edinburgh Research Partnership in Engineering and Mathematics, alongside the University of Edinburgh, which consists of five joint research institutes and a joint graduate school.

Our Expertise
Your learning in the MSc Applied Mathematical Sciences (2 years) programme will be informed by the expertise of our research-active academics, whose work encompasses the following areas:
• Machine Learning: Designing and applying cutting-edge machine learning algorithms for real-world problems.
• Data Science and Mathematical Modelling: Leveraging big data analytics and mathematical modelling for business insights, as well as in use within the natural and social sciences.
• Mathematical Biology: Using mathematical techniques to model biological processes and disease.
• Operations Research: Optimizing systems and processes in logistics, manufacturing, and services.
• Applied Statistics: Applying statistical learning theory and data analysis for inference.

Your learning environment
With MSc Applied Mathematical Sciences (2 years) you'll excel in an exceptional learning environment:
• Innovation Hubs: As a student, you'll have access to data-driven innovation hubs including the National Robotarium and the GRID, home to the Maths Gym. These hubs offer exceptional opportunities to engage with fellow students and academics; enhancing your academic journey.
• Departmental Expertise: Heriot-Watt's Department of Mathematics has been excellent in applied mathematics for over four decades. Our programmes will expand mathematical skills and apply them to real-world challenges, including those in sustainable finance.
• Research Excellence: In the recent Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), we ranked first in Scotland for Mathematical Sciences research and 3rd in UK.