Overview
Mathematics underpins many scientific and technological advances—from climate modelling and fluid simulation to optimisation of power grids, neural networks and cryptography. This international, English‑taught MSc programme emphasizes applied mathematics while preserving the rigorous theoretical foundations needed to develop new methods and algorithms. Graduates are prepared to tackle practical research problems across science, engineering, data science and finance.
What you will study and why it matters
The curriculum combines abstract mathematical training with hands‑on modules in data science, optimisation, numerical methods and stochastics, so you learn both the theory and how to apply it to real‑world challenges. Many courses are shared with neighbouring programmes (e.g., Computer Science, AI, Data Science, Engineering, Physics), enabling early collaboration with students from other disciplines and providing opportunities to work on interdisciplinary projects in areas such as energy systems, AI and sustainable technologies.
Context and flexibility
Located at a technical university in a region undergoing a transition from coal to renewables, the programme benefits from strong interdisciplinary links with research and degree programmes focused on decarbonisation and future energy systems. A distinctive element is the option to choose a number of courses from Economics or from other science and engineering programmes (for example Physics or Computer Science), allowing you to tailor the degree toward industry, research or applied roles. Language courses are also available to boost your employability in international settings.
Key facts and features
This two-year (four-semester) master's course is worth a total of 120 credit points and is organised to balance core mathematical training, elective study, practical applications, and transferable skills. The programme combines a set of compulsory seminar modules and the master's thesis with a substantial block of elective coursework and application-focused modules, allowing you to build both depth in a mathematical specialisation and breadth in applied areas.
Core components include discipline-specific seminars and a research-oriented master's thesis as the capstone. Elective modules give you room (44–54 credits) to deepen particular mathematical fields, while the applications modules (18–28 credits) are designed for applying mathematical methods to real problems or interdisciplinary projects. A small general studies module (6 credits) supports academic and professional skills.
You must hold a first professionally qualifying degree (at least a Bachelor’s) with a substantial mathematics component. The prior degree should include at least 180 credit points in mathematics or in a programme closely related to mathematics.
Whether a degree from another institution is acceptable depends on the content and scope of your mathematics coursework. In practice, your degree will be judged acceptable if its mathematics curriculum is comparable in breadth and depth to the Bachelor’s programmes in Mathematics or Business Mathematics offered at BTU Cottbus‑Senftenberg.
Admission requirements (summary)
Winter Semester (International)
15 May 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 August 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 February 2027
Graduates are prepared for careers that require strong mathematical modelling and computational skills — for example roles in data science, quantitative finance, simulation and numerical analysis, optimisation and algorithm development, as well as positions in energy systems, engineering or technology companies. The programme’s applied orientation and interdisciplinary links make it suitable for industry roles that bridge mathematics with computer science, AI and engineering.
The degree also provides a solid foundation for academic research: many alumni go on to doctoral studies or research roles at universities and research institutes. Optional language training and the international environment further support mobility and employment opportunities across Europe and beyond.