Mathematics
Winter intake start date
2027-02-01
Winter intake deadline
2026-10-15
How does a bank check whether your digital signature is a valid one? Do planets move in stable orbits or will they eventually collide? How can a 3D-sphere within the 3D-figures be characterized? If you're driven by deep theoretical questions and excited by the power of abstraction, the Master's degree in Mathematics at the University of Groningen offers the ideal environment to explore advanced mathematics through research and real-world relevance.
What to expect from the Master's programme in Mathematics
✔ Explore advanced topics like analysis, algebra, topology, and mathematical physics
✔ Join internationally recognised research groups and work alongside expert mathematicians
✔ Develop skills in abstract thinking, problem solving, and mathematical modelling
This two-year international Master's programme in Mathematics is embedded within five strong research groups at the University of Groningen, covering a broad range of mathematical fields. You will specialise in one of five areas, gain hands-on research experience, and learn how to approach complex problems through clear reasoning, abstract thinking, and deep theoretical understanding. Alongside your core studies, you'll build transferable skills in academic writing, communication, and scientific reasoning.
You'll also learn how to determine whether a problem can be solved using existing mathematical theory or if new methods need to be developed, which is a crucial ability in both research and innovation-driven industries.
Cambridge C1 CAE or Cambridge C2 CPE Certificate with a min. score of 180
IELTS (Academic): overall score 6.5 (min. 6.5 in every category)
TOEFL iBT*: overall score 90 (min. 21 in Reading, Listening, and Speaking, 24 in Writing)
TOEFL iBT*: overall score 4.5 (min. 4 in Reading and Speaking, 4.5 in Listening, 5 in Writing)
Bachelor's degree in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics. This is merely an indication of required background knowledge. The admissions board determines whether the specific contents of this/these course(s) meet the admission requirements of the master programme for which you applied.
The Admissions Office will advise the Board of Admissions on your application, after which the board will decide if you meet the admission requirements in terms of general level of previous education and specific background knowledge.
Job prospects
A Master's degree in Mathematics opens up many job opportunities. During your Master's programme you will learn to think in a logical and systematic way. These qualities are highly appreciated by employers. Students of our Master programme have found employment at banks, insurance companies, the consultancy branch and research and development departments of companies like Philips, Unilever, TNO, Gasunie, Ericsson and CGI.
With a Master's degree in Mathematics you can also pursue a scientific career as a PhD student at a university. This means working for four years on a research project and writing a thesis. After successfully defending this thesis, you will be awarded a PhD degree. Afterwards you can continue your career at a university or start a higher-level career in a company.
Job examples
- Work for multinationals such as TNO and Philips
- Start an academic career
- Analyst at bank or insurance company
- Consultant
