Overview The research-focused Master's programme offers advanced training across a broad spectrum of modern mathematics. Instruction and study areas include algebraic geometry; algebra, group theory and geometric group theory; applied and functional analysis (including operator theory and free probability); quantum groups and quantum information theory; mathematical data analysis; numerical methods for partial differential equations and inverse problems; and stochastics with applications in financial and insurance mathematics. The programme is taught in English and is designed to prepare students for research or career paths requiring deep mathematical skills.
Research environment and collaborations Students are encouraged to engage closely with the department’s active research projects—for example, the transregional collaborative research centre “Symbolic Tools in Mathematics and their Application” (SFB-TRR 195). A new Master’s specialisation in quantum information theory is being developed jointly with the Departments of Computer Science and Physics, highlighting strong interdisciplinary opportunities. The department also maintains close ties with the Department of Computer Science and the Max Planck Institute for Informatics in areas such as discrete mathematics, complexity theory and computational geometry, providing additional options for research supervision and collaborative projects.
Indicative application items (confirm exact requirements on the official programme page)
This master's curriculum is built to let you focus directly on the mathematical research area that interests you. Rather than following a rigid set of prescribed courses, you select a personalized combination of core courses, advanced (specialist) courses and seminars. That flexible structure makes it easy to deepen theoretical foundations while also pursuing specialized topics that prepare you for doctoral research or specialist professional roles.
Seminars are a central element of the program and give you regular opportunities to present results, critique current research, and engage in academic discussion—skills important for both research and industry. The overall design supports intensive study but also accommodates students who need more time: part‑time study is explicitly possible, allowing you to balance studies with work or other commitments.
Key modules and learning outcomes
Program requirements (summary)
Admission requirements
You must hold a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics or a closely related field to be considered for the Master of Science in Mathematics. Degrees from other disciplines may be evaluated for equivalence, but a strong mathematical background is expected.
In some cases the program can offer a provisional (preliminary) admission if your prior studies leave gaps in core undergraduate mathematics. Such provisional admissions require you to complete specific missing Bachelor-level courses (the “missing lectures”) as a condition of admission.
The examination board is responsible for the final admission decision and will specify any supplementary conditions or required coursework. If anything about your qualifications is unclear, contact the examination board or admissions office for guidance and for details about acceptable documentation and deadlines.
Key points (bullet list)
Winter Semester (International)
15 May 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 November 2026
The programme prepares graduates for research careers and doctoral study as well as for analytical and technical roles in industry. Typical pathways include academic research or PhD programmes, positions in data analysis and computational modelling, and roles in finance, insurance or technology companies where advanced mathematical and quantitative skills are required. The programme's close ties to computer science and research institutes also support transitions into interdisciplinary areas such as computational geometry, complexity theory and quantum information.