Key information
- Level
- Postgraduate Taught
- Delivery type
- Full Time
- Degree qualification
- MSc
- Mode of delivery
- On-Campus
- Duration
- 1 year
- Location
- Edinburgh
- Start date
- September
Precise and efficient scientific computations are vital for interdisciplinary collaborations. It IS crucial that these computations are stable, efficient, and lead to accurate solutions for complex challenges across diverse fields.
Our master's programme is designed to equip students with the skills needed to conduct effective computer simulations for a wide range of practical mathematical, physical, chemical, and industry-related problems.
As part of this programme, students will actively participate in research projects that place a strong emphasis on computational aspects. These projects encompass a diverse range of captivating topics, all of which are relevant to real world applications, including but not limited to:
- Simulation of Granular Flow and Growing Sand-piles
- Finite Element Discretisation of Ordinary and partial differential equations
- Domain Decomposition
- Computational Spectral Theory
- Mathematical Modelling of Micro-electron Mechanical Systems
By honing your computational skills through this programme, you will be well-positioned to take advantage of the many exciting career opportunities available. The programme provides cutting-edge knowledge and practical experience to help students transition successfully into professional roles involving large-scale simulations, modelling, and machine learning models.
The Future Shapers scholarship
The Future Shapers scholarship is looking for students who want to use research to create solutions to solve major global challenges. This has been established for 2026 by one of our generous donors and is a testament to the talent and world-shaping potential of our University's students and researchers. We are offering 12 scholarships across our 4 research areas, worth 50%, 75% and 100% of your tuition fee respectively.
Apply nowYour student experience
Within our MSc in Computational Mathematics and Data Analysis, our academics bring a wealth of expertise to enhance your educational journey. Their research and teaching intersect the realms of computational and applied mathematics, including:
- Data Science for Healthcare: Leveraging data analytics, machine learning, and statistical methods to advance medical diagnostics, treatment planning, and healthcare efficiency.
- Financial Modelling: Applying mathematical and computational techniques to analyse financial markets, risk assessment, and investment strategies.
- Artificial Intelligence in Robotics: Exploring the convergence of AI and robotics to develop innovative automation and autonomous systems, from self-driving vehicles to industrial automation.
Course content
September Intake - Edinburgh
Year 1
Mandatory September
- Modelling and Tools
Optional September
- Optimisation
- Modelling and Simulation in the Life Sciences
- Numerical ODEs
- Statistical Methods
Mandatory January
- Data Assimilation
- Numerical Analysis (PDEs)
- Artificial Intelligence
Optional January
- Partial Differential Equations
- Bayesian Inference & Computational Methods
Mandatory May
- Masters Project and Dissertation
Disclaimer
The courses mentioned above may change between now and the time that you study. For more information, please view our Terms and Conditions.
Programme Video
Computational Mathematics, MSc video playlist
Student testimonials
See moreI chose to study Computational Mathematics and Data Analysis as it was related to my undergraduate degree in mathematics. With Heriot-Watt having a reputation for postgraduate resources, I wanted to pursue a more technical career, so I chose an applied mathematics course in the hopes of improving my career prospects.
Fees and funding
| Status | Full Time |
|---|---|
| UK | £10,864 |
| International | £20,456 |
- Status: Your residency status is usually defined as the country where you have been ordinarily resident for the three years before the start of your course.
- International: 'International' includes applicants from European Union countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled status in UK. (This does not include students from the Republic of Ireland - see above).
Entry requirements
We have standard entry requirements for all of our courses that you will have to meet.
Year 1
Entry is aimed at graduates with strong mathematical knowledge and skills. A 2:1 honours degree in mathematics, statistics or a related subject with a substantial mathematical content is desired. We will accept 2:2 with relevant academic subjects and relevant professional qualifications. Motivation and a willingness to work hard are also important pre-requisites.
We welcome applications from international students and accept qualifications from around the world. Please refer to the entry requirements for your country for more details.
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, we'll need to see evidence of your English language ability.
The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.
If you do not have IELTS 6.0, we offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement for this programme prior to commencing your studies.
Please see our detailed English language requirements.
Why Heriot-Watt
We have been producing career-ready graduates since 1821. With our roots as the world’s first Mechanics Institute, Heriot-Watt is a pioneering university with a global reach.
At Heriot-Watt, learning goes beyond the lecture theatre. We tackle real world challenges through extraordinary research – from climate change to protecting our oceans, to advancing life-saving medical breakthroughs and shaping the next generation of AI. We are also committed to developing forward-thinking design and sustainable business practices that impact industries worldwide. On our campuses you’ll find some of the world’s most advanced facilities, while our strong industry links set you up for career success. This is why almost 90% of our graduates are in employment or further education (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).
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