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Mathematical Biology at University of St Andrews - UCAS

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2024 - 20252025 - 2026
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Course summary

This MSc prepares students with a background in mathematics and related fields for a PhD in Mathematical Biology or a research career in the biomedical sector. A wide range of topics are covered including mathematical oncology, ecological modelling, medical statistics, and population dynamics. The MSc in Mathematical Biology consists of two semesters of taught courses run by the School of Mathematics and Statistics, followed by a dissertation undertaken over the summer months. There is a growing worldwide demand for students with these skills in mathematical biology academic research, as well as in the life sciences industrial sector, including biotechnology, biomedical, healthcare and pharmaceutical companies. Highlights

  • You will take a course of study tailored to your interests.
  • You will be exposed to modern and relevant ideas in mathematical biology.
  • You will be prepared to pursue a PhD and academic career in mathematical biology.
  • You will acquire the qualifications and skills for a career in the biomedical sector.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

  • Spatial Models and Pattern Formation in Mathematical Biology: explores applications of partial differential equation to real world biological and medical problems, e.g. cell migration, pattern formation in animal coat markings, spread of infectious diseases, and more.
  • Stochastic Dynamics in Biology: provides an introduction to stochastic mathematical modelling with a focus on applications in biology, such as gene regulation, and the dynamics of cell- or animal populations.
  • Mathematical Oncology: using a wide range of methods and techniques we develop and study mathematical models addressing biomedical questions in cancer growth, metastasis and treatment.
  • Advanced Computational Techniques: studies several ideas and techniques that underpin modern numerical treatment of processes described by partial differential equations.
Semester 1 - optional Students choose two optional modules from this list:
  • Applied Statistical Modelling using GLMs
  • Calculus of Variations in Biological Modelling
  • Computing in Mathematics
  • Introductory Data Analysis
  • Modelling Wildlife Population Dynamics
  • Population Genetics
Semester 2 - optional Students choose one optional module from this list:
  • Advanced Analytical Techniques
  • Design of Experiments
  • Estimating Animal Abundance and Biodiversity
  • Fluid Dynamics
  • Medical Statistics
  • Population Dynamics Models in Mathematical Biology
Dissertation MSc students complete a dissertation during the final three months of the course to be submitted near the end of August. Dissertations are supervised by members of teaching staff who will advise on the choice of subject and provide guidance throughout the progress of the dissertation.  If students choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma. By choosing an exit award, you will finish your degree at the end of the second semester of study and receive a PGDip instead of an MSc. Further information is available via the "Course contact details" section at the bottom of this webpage.

Assessment method

Most modules for the MSc in Mathematical Biology are semester-long lecture courses with end-of-semester exams, and some modules have a large element of continuous assessment.

Entry requirements

A good 2.1 undergraduate Honours degree in Mathematics, Statistics or a closely related subject area. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the University international entry requirements. If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See the University's approved English language tests and scores for this course.

English language requirements

For the current English Language requirements please visit the English language requirements for postgraduate students on the University of St Andrews website.

English language requirements for postgraduate students

https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/subjects/entry/language-requirements/postgraduate/

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this 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 the most current information on course fees please visit https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/postgraduate/taught/.
Mathematical Biology at University of St Andrews - UCAS