Program Overview
Skip to main content MSc Applied Mathematical Sciences Find out how to apply More on this subject Key information Heriot-Watt University was ranked 2nd in Scotland by the National Student Survey 2025 and 5th in the UK by the Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026. Level Postgraduate Taught Delivery type Full Time, Part Time Degree qualification MSc Mode of delivery On-Campus Duration 1 year Location Edinburgh Start date September The MSc in Applied Mathematical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University is one of the premier programmes of its kind in the UK. For over 40 years, Heriot-Watt has been a leader in applied mathematics research and education. Our faculty is at the forefront of many areas, including Mathematical Biology and Ecology, Material Science, Mathematical Physics and more. This flexible master's programme aims to provide students with the cutting-edge analytical and statistical skills needed for success in today's data-driven world.
Key Program Features
- Immersive On-Campus Experience: In-person seminars, laboratory sessions, and professional networking at Heriot-Watt University.
- Expert Faculty: Taught by research-active academics and practitioners with deep expertise in Interdisciplinary Studies.
- Diverse International Cohort: Study alongside students from around the world, broadening your global professional network.
- Research-Informed Curriculum: Content grounded in the latest academic research and real-world industry practice.
- Dissertation / Capstone Project: Culminating independent project applying your expertise to an original research question or industry challenge.
- Dedicated Career Support: Access to career coaching, employer networking events, and job placement assistance.
- 12 months Duration: Part-time and accelerated options may be available — enquire with the admissions office.
Career Opportunities
Potential career paths
- Data Scientist - Analyse data to uncover insights and trends to inform business strategy and decision-making.
- Business Analyst - Use data modelling and statistical analysis to solve problems and improve business processes.
- Operations Researcher - Apply mathematical optimization techniques to complex logistics and resource allocation problems.
- Quantitative Analyst - Build mathematical models to analyse financial markets, price assets, and quantify risk.
- Statistical Modeller - Develop predictive models and perform statistical inference on data.
- Machine Learning Engineer - Design, implement and deploy machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence applications.
- Financial Engineer - Create mathematical models, algorithms and frameworks for derivative pricing, risk management, and investment.
Program Curriculum
Course content
The MSc in Applied Mathematical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University is one of the premier programmes of its kind in the UK. For over 40 years, Heriot-Watt has been a leader in applied mathematics research and education. Our faculty is at the forefront of many areas, including Mathematical Biology and Ecology, Material Science, Mathematical Physics and more.
This flexible master's programme aims to provide students with the cutting-edge analytical 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 various industries.
Whether your interests lie in mathematical modelling, 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.
Your learning in the MSc Applied Mathematical Sciences 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: Leveraging big data analytics and statistical modelling for business insights.
- Mathematical Modelling: Constructing and analysing mathematical models for the natural and social sciences.
- Mathematical Biology and Ecology: Using mathematical techniques to model biological processes, disease and ecosystems.
- Operations Research: Optimizing systems and processes in logistics, manufacturing, and services.
- Applied Statistics: Applying statistical learning theory and data analysis for inference.
With MSc Applied Mathematical Sciences you'll excel in an exceptional learning environment:
- Innovation Hubs: As a student, you'll have access to data-driven innovation hubs like the GRID, home of the HW Maths Gym .The GRID offers exceptional opportunities to engage with fellow students and academics
- Departmental Expertise: Heriot-Watt's Department of Mathematics has been a pioneer in applied mathematics for over four decades. Our programmes will sharpen your mathematical skills and teach to real-world challenges, including those in sustainable finance.
- Research Excellence: In the recent Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), we ranked first in Scotland and 3rd in UK for Mathematical Sciences research.
The Maxwell Institute of Mathematical Sciences
Admission Requirements
Entry requirements
UK & EU: A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree or non-UK equivalent containing some maths and/or statistics content.
OS: A minimum of a 2:1 honours degree or non-UK equivalent containing some maths and/or statistics content. Applicants must have covered subjects such as: Real Analysis, Multivariable Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations, Probability and Statistics.
Applicants that have not completed the modules above will be considered for the 2 year programme.
We welcome applications from international students and accept qualifications from around the world. Please refer to the entry requirements for your country for more details.
If your first language is not English, we'll need to see evidence of your English language ability.
The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.
If you do not have IELTS 6.0, we offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement for this programme prior to commencing your studies.
Please see our detailed English language requirements .
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
GBP 14080
Fees and funding
UK students Full time : £10,864 ; Part time: £5,432 International students Full time £20,456; Part Time: £10,228
Scholarships and bursaries
Postgraduate scholarships and bursaries We aim to encourage well-qualified, ambitious students to study with us and we offer a wide variety of scholarships and bursaries to achieve this. Over £6 million worth of opportunities are available in fee and stipend scholarships, and more than 400 students benefit from this support.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Fees and funding
UK students Full time : £10,864 ; Part time: £5,432 International students Full time £20,456; Part Time: £10,228
Scholarships and bursaries
Postgraduate scholarships and bursaries We aim to encourage well-qualified, ambitious students to study with us and we offer a wide variety of scholarships and bursaries to achieve this. Over £6 million worth of opportunities are available in fee and stipend scholarships, and more than 400 students benefit from this support.
About Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University
City of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Heriot-Watt University is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields. The...
University Profile- Language English
- Duration 12 months
