Mathematics and Physics - Master

Modern technology and our understanding of the World we live in is based on the scientific description of natural phenomena and advanced mathematical modelling. Scientists and engineers are trained to uncover and investigate these phenomena, and in return apply our knowledge to develop new technology.

Objectives, content, and organisation of the study programme

This programme provides you with skills in mathematics, physics and statistics on an advanced level. You will be able to solve highly advanced mathematical problems, analytically and numerically. You will be able to apply fundamental physics to complex systems both at the macroscopic and the microscopic level. You will have a large toolbox of computational, experimental and data analysis methods, and be able to address problems throughout natural sciences, but also in the context of finance, health science, social sciences and management. Mathematics and physics are crucial to overcome the challenges posed by the Green Transition. The subject’s key role as basis for our understanding of nature and future technology must be a pillar of Lifelong Learning for a future where adaptability is a key competence.

Mathematics and Physics graduates readily find employment as specialists in various industries, filling roles in technical design and innovation, data analysis, mathematical modelling and management. In both the public and private sector, Mathematicians and Physicists are sought after for research and development teams, in particular for tasks that require very advanced mathematics, deductive and problem-solving skills, high precision and deep understanding.

Some Mathematicians and Physicists choose to further specialise through a Ph.D. degree, others establish themselves with a career in education, at high-school level, in higher education or in public dissemination.

The first 6 semesters of the programme encompass all the core skills that a Mathematician and a Physicist need. These include Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electromagnetism, Astrophysics and Quantum mechanics, as well as Statistics, Advanced Calculus, Abstract Algebra, Differential equations, and Numerical methods.

After passing the first three years (first six semesters), the student reports transfer to master's level (semester 7). In addition, the student also chooses to specialise in either mathematics or physics.

The Master's thesis project in semester 9-10 offers the opportunity to apply the acquired skills to a specific, often very challenging problem in contemporary mathematics or physics. This will expose the student to some of the most advanced methods and ideas in mathematics (algebraic and differential geometry, topology and functional analysis), to modern methods in data analysis (statistical simulations, signal processing, machine learning, AI), and to ongoing efforts to probe the fundamental properties of the Universe, using some of the most complex technology in the world (CERN, ESRF, Gravitational waves, supercomputing).

Details on teaching and learning methods, required literature, evaluation methods, and assessment criteria are provided in each course description.

The University of Stavanger strives to deliver all study programs as planned; however, it reserves the right to make adjustments should there be insufficient resources and/or student enrollment to ensure implementation. Over time, it is expected that both the academic content and the range of courses will evolve in response to developments within the discipline, advancements in technology, and broader societal changes.