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Mathematics

What’s on offer for postgraduates?

Mathematics postgraduate student profile

Anyone interested in postgraduate study in the mathematics field is certain to know a good deal about it already.

A fair proportion of mathematics postgraduates are doing research work and many of these are from the large pool of mathematics graduates who go directly on to further study. There are postgraduate coursework programs as well, many in applied mathematics and statistics. A strong academic record in the area is often a prerequisite for entry.

If you are thinking about a research degree you probably have a particular interest in one area of mathematics. Because mathematics covers a number of different specialisations it will be necessary to look at the strengths and interests of the faculties/departments and supervisors at the institutions you are considering.

It is not always the case that institutions with a big, established research program will be best. However, some of the older faculties or schools do have a longer tradition of research in the mathematics field. This does not mean that the academics are better but it could mean you are likely to find a critical mass of research students and better access to resources and scholarships. But as always, check out the specifics, including the strengths and weaknesses of possible supervisors.

The experience and rewards

Visit the University Ratings section for mathematics course ratings or to see how mathematics rates in the Fields of Study Compared table.

Postgraduates in this field gave their overall course experience poor ratings and considered teaching quality to be below average, according to the national Course Experience Questionnaire. As the government expresses concern about dwindling mathematics enrolments, employment prospects for postgraduates in this field continue to be good, earning a four-star rating. Graduate salaries also rate very well against other fields.

For more information

Depending on your particular bent, you may find specialisations of interest dotted across fields including accounting, computing and information systems, and science.

Gareth Peters — PhD in Mathematics and Statistics

Why did you decide to pursue postgraduate studies?
I was always deeply interested in mathematical sciences and physics. The motivation of exploring when phenomena arose, how they arose and the development of models to explain diverse phenomena were always of interest to me. I undertook several short summer research projects ... these helped me to develop a real sense of excitement for science, whilst at the same time understanding the discipline required to become a good scientist. It was therefore natural from this perspective to pursue postgraduate studies, and the more difficult question really became, how does one obtain a good project and supervisor? In this regard I was very lucky to have experienced supervision from several academics whose joint input has really benefited my development.

How do you balance your study with other commitments?
I believe the key to success in graduate school involves striking a balance between research, activities outside the office and family.

Would you recommend postgraduate studies to someone in a similar position to you, i.e. someone working in your field, or wishing to enter your field?
I would recommend postgraduate studies to people who are disciplined, creative thinkers and willing to work hard to learn and read literature and to develop new ideas rigorously. To perform well in postgraduate research you must be disciplined as you are really your own boss and you are responsible for directing your research plans. This is both exciting and daunting at the same time, however if you treat this seriously the rewards can be tremendous, both from a personal development perspective and from a professional perspective.

What did you gain from your PhD?
A PhD has taught me several things. Other than exploring in great depth a research field and contributing novel ideas to this field, it has also taught me discipline, perseverance and persistence. I have gained valuable time management skills and people skills as a result of several collaborations I have formed during the years I have spent in postgraduate studies. In addition, it has allowed me to travel to many places to live for extended periods, including the UK, Switzerland, France, Spain, Italy, Canada, the US and Japan.

How did your postgraduate qualifications assist you in getting a job?
They were critical, providing me with the sufficient background to meet the level of technical expertise required to perform these jobs.

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