The structure of the course centres around a dissertation in which theory and application come together in a logically coherent manner, complementing one another in the process of mastering a repertoire of mathematical, computational and statistical techniques. The acquired skills are assembled into a plan for solving problems originating within various applications. We also accept dissertations which are of a more theoretical bent provided the level of the mathematics involved is of a sufficient level. Once a plan for dissertation has been formulated, three supporting study units are selected to help the student acquire the techniques and theoretical underpinnings of relevant areas at a sufficiently deep level.

The Course shall be open to applicants in possession of one of the following qualifications: (a) the degree of Bachelor of Science with at least Second Class Honours in an area of study deemed by the Board to be relevant to the proposed area of study and obtained in the 10 years previous to registration for the Course or (b) the Bachelor of Science with Third Class Honours in an area of study deemed by the Board to be relevant to the proposed area of study and obtained in the 10 years previous to registration for the Course, provided that the applicants have obtained other qualifications, including relevant experience, following their first cycle degree. The Board may, at its discretion, require such applicants to follow a preparatory programme as specified below. The Board, at its discretion, may also recommend the admission of applicants in possession of a Bachelor of Science with at least Category II in an area of study deemed by the Board to be relevant to the proposed area of study and obtained in the 10 years previous to registration for the Course, provided that the admission of such applicants shall be made conditional on the result of an interview and in such cases they shall be required to follow a preparatory programme as specified below. The Board, at its discretion, may also recommend the admission of applicants with a first cycle degree deemed by the Board to be relevant to the proposed area of study and obtained in the 10 years previous to registration for the Course, provided that the admission of such applicants may be conditional on the result of an interview and in such cases they may be required to follow a preparatory programme as specified below. Applicants whose first degree was obtained more than 10 years previous to registration for the Course may also be admitted following an interview to ascertain their capability to follow the Course. The Board may, at its discretion, require such applicants to follow a preparatory programme as specified below. Preparatory Programme The preparatory programme shall comprise study-units to which not less than 30 credits and not more than 60 credits are assigned and shall also be governed by the Principal Regulations. Students shall be required to successfully complete the preparatory programme with an average mark of 55% or better prior to their registration for the Course.