Mathematics KU Leuven

Overview

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This master is a research-based master’s programme in which you can specialise in various fields of both pure and applied mathematics.  You are trained to be a mathematician with a broad view on the scientific domain on the one side, and a thorough knowledge of a number of specialised disciplines within mathematics.

You choose one of the two profiles – Pure Mathematics or Applied Mathematics (54 ECTS) – and one of the two options – Research Option or Professional Option (30 ECTS). The Option for Education is only available in the Dutch Master.

The profile allows you to specialise either in pure mathematics (algebra, geometry, analysis), or in applied mathematics (statistics, computational mathematics, fluid dynamics). Researchers in pure mathematics focus on algebraic geometry, group theory, differential geometry, functional analysis, and complex analysis. Researchers in mathematical statistics deal with extreme values, robust statistics, non-parametric statistics, and financial mathematics. Research in the applied mathematics group is in computational fluid dynamics and plasma astrophysics.

There is one common course: Mathematics of the 21st Century (6 ECTS).

To complete the programme, you will carry out a research project that results in a master’s thesis (30 ECTS).

Career perspectives

Mathematicians are in high demand across the work field. As a graduate mathematician, you can find employment in industry and in the banking, insurance, and IT sectors. There are also openings in academic institutions, government agencies and think tanks, private companies, research centres and industrial companies and departments.  

Many graduates who choose the research option pursue a career in research and start their PhD in mathematics, mathematical physics, astrophysics, engineering, or related fields.