Almost one third of maths student go on to further study, in many cases this is in one year taught and MSc programmes. There are a huge variety of one year postgraduate programmes on offer to suit your career aspirations; whether you want to further your academic study, study a more vocational qualification or completely change your area of expertise and complete a conversion course, there is something for you.
Role:
Mathematics year long postgraduate qualifications are almost exclusively taught, with often an element of project work. (If you are looking to conduct original research then you should look in the PhD section of this guide) A mathematics MSc will allow you to specialise in a particular area of mathematics or apply your skills more vocationally. At Southampton the following, one year courses, are offered by the School of Mathematics:
- MSc/PG Dip in Actuarial Science
- MSc in Operational Research
- MSc in Operational Research and Finance
- MSc in Statistics with Applications in Medicine
If, however, you wish to branch out to different areas of study, you could do a conversion course, subjects include: law, graduate medicine, IT and computer science, social work, and teaching.
Skills required:
- Passion and strong competency for the subject area
- Ability to work independently
- Communication and presentation skills
Advantages:
- Opportunity to expand your mathematical knowledge, apply your maths skills to the real world or, in the case of conversions, branch out into new areas.
- Can provide a boost to your employability; many employers look favourably on, or indeed, demand candidates with masters degrees.
- Masters degrees can provide a pathway to a PhD.
Things to consider:
- Although funding does exist, it is certainly not guaranteed. You may have to pay for your fees and living expenses.
- Most courses are twelve months long and often include a three month summer project.
- Masters degrees are by their nature difficult, so make sure you are doing it for the right reasons.
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