Course summary
At the forefront of mathematical biology research, Heriot-Watt University boasts distinguished researchers, including Jonathan Sherratt, Mariya Ptashnyk, Damian Clancy, Andy White and Kevin Painter, pushing boundaries in this challenging field. Our postgraduate programme in Mathematical Biology, Ecology and Medicine provides comprehensive training in mathematical analysis and modelling techniques to address complex challenges in the life sciences. On this programme you will engage with high-level courses designed by experts to offer the latest knowledge and skills to analyse biological systems through mathematical and data-driven methods. The highlight of the programme is a summer research project tackling cutting-edge topics aligned with our expertise in areas such as, • wound healing • pattern formation • epidemics • cancer research • semi-arid ecosystems Our Expertise Our MSc programme unites an academic team whose research and teaching covers a wide range of interconnected topics within mathematical biology, ecology, and medicine. These topics include: • Mathematical Ecology: Leaders in the field of ecological modelling, exploring the complex dynamics of ecosystems and species interactions. • Computational Tools and Modelling: Applying advanced computational techniques to model biological and ecological systems, uncovering insights into intricate processes. • Mathematical Biology and Medicine: Innovative approaches to understand disease dynamics, population biology, and mathematical foundations of medical research. • Data Assimilation: Experts in assimilating data into mathematical models to improve forecasting and understanding of biological and ecological systems. Your learning environment With MSc Mathematical Biology, Ecology and Medicine 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 for Mathematical Sciences research. This underscores our commitment to excellence in applied mathematics fields like optimization, computation, statistics, and analysis that drive innovation across industries.
Modules
There are four mandatory courses and four optional courses, totalling 120 credits. The mandatory courses concern specific aspects of mathematical modelling in biology ecology and medicine, while the optional courses concern either background material in mathematical analysis, numerical simulation and statistical methods, or complementary material in biological sciences and computer science. Choice of optional courses will be done in consultation with the programme director and will be subject to his/her approval. Mandatory September -Mathematical Ecology -Modelling and Simulation in the Life Sciences -Modelling and Tools Optional September -Optimisation -Numerical ODEs -Statistical Methods Mandatory January -Mathematical Biology and Medicine -Data Assimilation Optional January -Artificial Intelligence -Partial Differential Equations -Numerical Analysis (PDEs) -Bayesian Inference & Computational Methods Mandatory May -Masters Project and Dissertation
Assessment method
You will be assessed by coursework, exams, and your research project, and will receive support and feedback throughout the programme.
Entry requirements
UK & EU: A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree or non-UK equivalent containing substantial maths and/or statistics content. OS: A minimum of a 2:1 honours degree or non-UK equivalent containing substantial maths and/or statistics content. Applicants must have covered subjects such as: Real Analysis, Multivariable Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations, Probability and Statistics at 60% or above. Other degrees considered: Electrical / Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Economics. Applicants that do not meet the entry criteria 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. English language requirements 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.
English language requirements
Applicants whose native language is not English and who have not been educated previously in the English language must provide evidence of their English language ability to ensure they can cope with the demands of a Heriot-Watt programme taught and assessed in English. Further information about the English Language tests that we currently accept as proof of English Language ability including our own English Language programmes, can be viewed on our website.
HWU English Language Requirements
https://www.hw.ac.uk/study/entry/english-language-requirements.htm
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £10528 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £10528 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £10528 | Whole course |
| Wales | £10528 | Whole course |
| International | £19816 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
For part-time, the tuition fee is:
£5,264 for UK Nationals and £9,908 for International Applicants.
Sponsorship information
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.
Provider information
Heriot-Watt University
Riccarton
Edinburgh
EH14 4AS