Applied Mathematics

Applied mathematics is concerned with the development and use of mathematical tools to understand and model the real world, from the equations that describe fluid flow and heat transfer to the mathematical structures that underlie quantum mechanics, financial markets, and biological systems. Where pure mathematics is primarily concerned with the internal logic and structure of mathematical ideas, applied mathematics asks how those ideas can be brought to bear on physical, biological, and social phenomena, developing the models, algorithms, and analytical methods that make mathematics indispensable across science, engineering, and quantitative analysis.

At St Andrews this five-year MMath (Hons) programme in Applied Mathematics develops your mathematical ability to the highest level, training you to understand complex patterns and structures and to develop the analytical and computational tools with which to investigate them. You will study differential equations, mathematical modelling, fluid mechanics, mathematical biology, statistical mechanics, numerical methods, and the mathematical foundations of physical theories, developing both analytical depth and the computational skills that modern applied mathematics requires. The programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to engage with applied mathematics in an international academic context.

Applied mathematics graduates are among the most versatile and employable of all science graduates. Careers in research, finance and banking, engineering, aerospace, defence, environmental modelling, data science, consulting, and the civil service are all common destinations. The mathematical rigour and problem-solving ability developed through the degree are valued wherever quantitative thinking is at a premium.

Many graduates pursue postgraduate study or doctoral research in applied mathematics or a specific application area, and some move into academic careers in mathematics, physics, or engineering. The MMath qualification gives graduates a strong foundation for doctoral study and for the most demanding quantitative professional roles.