Mathematics of Systems (MSc leading to PhD)

The Mathematics of Systems programme takes the form of a 1+3 year MSc and PhD. The full-time MSc year is dedicated to developing a broad portfolio of mathematical techniques and partaking in small research problems with a strong emphasis on applied questions and practical approaches. The PhD years train you into an independent researcher developing and using new mathematics to solve real-world systems challenges under the guidance of two supervisors and in the context of real-world systems problems coming from our external partners or others, in health, industry and finance.

Course Overview

The MathSys 1+3 year programme trains students in the advanced quantitative skills and applied mathematical modelling critical to address today’s challenges in biomedicine and health sectors, modern industry and the digital economy. MathSys is a Centre for Doctoral Training funded by the EPSRC, with support from external partners and the University of Warwick. It is dedicated to tackling real-world problems that require developing novel mathematical methods for multi-scale, machine-learning and hybrid modelling.

MathSys is an inclusive CDT with a strong creative and collaborative ethos, and benefits from its own dedicated facilities. We will train you to think broadly and combine cutting-edge mathematical skills with the ability to understand and model real-world systems, analyse complex data sets, work well in multidisciplinary teams and be excellent communicators. Our core funding provides stipends and fees for 10 students per year (under UKRI funding restrictions) on a competitive basis, including one fully-funded international studentship.

Teaching

A 1+3 year MSc and PhD.

The full-time MSc year is dedicated to developing a broad portfolio of mathematical techniques and investigating two research problems, with a strong emphasis on applied questions and practical approaches.

Assessment

Terms 1 and 2 comprise taught modules assessed through exams and vivas, and optional modules are usually taken in Term 2. The student cohort then addresses 3-4 research problems motivated by external partners in groups of 4-5. After the Research Study Group project, each student pursues their own Individual Research Project supervised by a Warwick academic. Both research projects are evaluated by written and presented work.

Upon successfully completing the MSc year (or equivalent training), students may progress to a three-year PhD supervised by a Warwick academic and a representative of an external partner organisation. The CDT has a portfolio of available projects; however, the PhD project can also be determined by the student, with the proviso that it involves the application of mathematics to a real-world problem and that a suitable supervisor can be found.

Careers

Graduates have pursued roles such as: actuaries; finance and investment analysts and advisers and university researchers.

Our department has a dedicated professionally qualified Senior Careers Consultant offering impartial advice and guidance together with workshops and events throughout the year. Previous examples of workshops and events include:

• Maths Careers Fair
• Careers in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
• Warwick careers fairs throughout the year
• Mathematics at work – The practical application of Maths in the workplace
• Placement and graduate opportunities at the Government Actuary’s Department

Minimum requirements First Class Honours degree or very strong 2:i (or equivalent) in Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, Computer Science or other degree with high mathematical content.