Operational Research (MSc)

You’ll need a 2: 1 degree in a subject with some quantitative training, such as: 

• computer science 
• economics 
• engineering 
• mathematics 
• physics 
• statistics 

Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country. 

Got a question?

If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.

Your studies on the full-time course will last 12 months, from September to the following September. 

For the first 8 months (semesters 1 and 2) you'll focus on the taught part of your course.  

Each semester is made up of a combination of modules that everyone on the course takes, and modules that we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options. 

For the remainder of the course, you’ll work independently on your research project and dissertation. You’ll have one-to-one meetings with your supervisor during this time to discuss your progress. 

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Learning

The learning activities for this course include the following: 

• lectures 
• classes and tutorials 
• coursework 
• guest speakers 
• computer workshops 
• individual and group projects 
• independent learning (studying on your own) 

Assessment

We’ll assess you through: 

• coursework 
• a dissertation 
• essays 
• individual and group projects 
• written exams 

Dissertation

You’ll research and write a dissertation on a topic in operational research, working with an industry partner or a member of academic staff. 

The project is a chance for you to develop your research skills and show specialist knowledge of a particular area of operational research. 

You’ll have regular support meetings with your supervisor throughout the process. 

Academic Support

We'll assign you a personal academic tutor, and you'll have access to a senior tutor.

With this degree you’ll be ready to work as an operational researcher or operational research analyst in a range of organisations.

Industries you could go into include: 

• government 
• defence  
• financial services  
• health 
• manufacturing  
• oil 
• transport and travel  

Throughout the course you’ll have opportunities to network with companies such as: 

• Shell 
• British Airways 
• AA 
• Defence Science and Technology Laboratory 
• HM Revenue & Customs 

You’ll also be in a great position to continue your researches at PhD level. 

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
• a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK/EU students pay £9,250.
• International students pay £18,812.

Check fees for other versions of this course.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and all examinations.

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK and EU nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries  may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.

You can apply directly through our online form by using the apply button on this page.

Application deadlines

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

You'll also need to send 2 academic references. 

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

• academic achievements
• relevant professional experience
• personal statement
• academic references

We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000