At postgraduate level, mathematics becomes a tool to shape innovation across science, technology, and society.
Changes to science masters’ degrees from 2027
From 2027, our science masters' degrees are changing. The Master of Science will be renamed to the Master of Science (Thesis). A new degree, the Master of Science (Coursework), will also be introduced.
Why study postgraduate Mathematics?
Mathematics is the language of patterns, logic, and problem-solving. Postgraduate study lets you explore complex concepts and develop expertise that drives innovation across many areas.
At Otago, you’ll engage deeply with advanced mathematical ideas and learn how to apply them to challenging problems. This study equips you with skills in critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and quantitative insight – abilities highly valued in science, technology, finance, engineering, and beyond. Working closely with leading researchers, you’ll apply mathematics to important questions, shaping both your future and the wider world.
Career opportunities
Postgraduate mathematics study at Otago equips you with skills that open doors across many industries. Whether you pursue academic research or apply your knowledge in practical settings, your problem-solving ability and analytical expertise will stand out. Careers you might consider include:
- Data scientist or analyst
- Quantitative researcher in finance or economics
- Operations researcher or logistician
- Academic or university researcher
- Mathematical modeller in science or engineering
What it’s like to study at this level
Studying mathematics at a postgraduate level in Otago means deep independent research combined with collaboration and expert support.
The department offers personalised supervision, seminar discussions, and connections to research networks. You’ll develop your skills by solving challenging problems, presenting your work, and contributing new knowledge. Practical and interdisciplinary projects help you link theory with tangible outcomes and impact.
This is for you if ...
A strong undergraduate degree in mathematics, statistics, or a closely related field is essential. You should have a solid foundation in mathematical reasoning and enjoy exploring abstract concepts and problem-solving.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Mathematics as an undergraduate at Otago.
Otago Mathematics: Research, resources, and real results
You'll have access to advanced computing resources and specialised mathematical software. Our research strengths span mathematical and numerical relativity, algebra, analysis, geometry, and mathematical physics—areas where theory meets real-world impact.
Whether you're pursuing an academic career or applying mathematics to real-world challenges, you'll benefit from small classes, dedicated supervision, and a research community committed to both theoretical excellence and practical applications.
Choose a study option
Whether you are advancing your career with our specialised graduate qualifications or pursuing in-depth research and expertise through our postgraduate programmes, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Postgraduate qualifications
Honours, masters’, PhDs, and other advanced degrees for graduates. Just one additional year of study will earn you a valuable postgraduate degree. Or perhaps you want the depth of a full year of research-only time during a master’s or to step up to a PhD.
Bachelor of Arts with Honours (BA(Hons))
A four-year degree focusing on advanced study and culminating in a research project in the final year
Bachelor of Science with Honours (BSc(Hons))
A four-year degree focusing on advanced study and culminating in a research project in the final year
Postgraduate Certificate in Science (PGCertSci)
A coursework programme, typically consisting of three papers, that can be completed with full-time (one-semester) or part-time (full-year) study
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Subjects (PGDipArts)
A two-semester programme of structured coursework, and in some cases supervised research, extending the knowledge and skills gained from the bachelor’s degree
Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci)
A one-year programme which builds on an undergraduate science degree, encompassing coursework and a chosen research topic
Master of Arts (Thesis) (MA(Thesis))
A one- or two-year degree entailing a major research project, culminating in a thesis
Master of Science (Coursework) (MSc(Coursework))
The Master of Science (Coursework) is a taught master's, designed to provide an intensive, structured learning experience.
Master of Science (Thesis) (MSc(Thesis))
A two-year degree with a wide range of subject options. The MSc(Thesis) may be taken by a combination of coursework and thesis, or by thesis only.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Engage in original research leading to a doctoral thesis, supported by comprehensive academic and social networks
Graduate qualifications
Our graduate qualifications are crafted to transition students from foundational studies to advanced, specialised knowledge.
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Programme details
Compare programmes for this subject.
| Papers |
|---|
| MATH 490 Dissertation |
| Four 400-level MATH or STAT papers including at least three MATH papers |
| Prerequisites: At least five 300-level papers including at least four 300-level MATH papers |
| Papers |
|---|
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The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Subjects (PGDipArts) programme in Mathematics is the same as the programme for the degree of Bachelor of Arts with Honours (BA(Hons)).
| Papers |
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| Thesis |
|---|
Note: Students who have not completed a Bachelor of Arts (BA(Hons)) in Mathematics or a Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Subjects (PGDipArts) in Mathematics must complete the required papers for the BA(Hons) in Mathematics prior to undertaking the thesis. |
| 120 Point Pathway Requirements |
|---|
At least 60 points from: MATH 421, 422, 423, 424, 425, 426, 427, 428, 429, 431, 432, 433, 434, 435, 436Up to 20 points from 400-level PHSI, COMP, DATA, STAT, ECON, COMO, FINC, ENRG 40 points from: |
| 180 Point Pathway Requirements |
|---|
At least 100 points from: MATH 421, 422, 423, 424, 425, 426, 427, 428, 429, 431, 432, 433, 434, 435, 436Up to 40 points from 400-level PHSI, COMP, DATA, STAT, ECON, COMO, FINC, ENRG 40 points from: |
| Papers and Thesis |
|---|
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Papers
View a list of all related papers below.
COMO papers
| Paper Code | Year | Title | Points | Teaching period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COMO101 | 2026 | Modelling and Computation | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| COMO204 | 2026 | Differential Equations | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| COMO303 | 2026 | Numerical Methods | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| COMO480 | 2026 | Research Project | 40 points | Not offered in 2026 |
MATH papers
| Paper Code | Year | Title | Points | Teaching period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MATH120 | 2026 | Mathematics for Scientists | 18 points | Summer School, Semester 1 |
| MATH130 | 2026 | Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 1 | 18 points | Semester 1, Semester 2 |
| MATH140 | 2026 | Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 2 | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH201 | 2026 | Real Analysis | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH202 | 2026 | Linear Algebra | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH203 | 2026 | Calculus of Several Variables | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH301 | 2026 | Introduction to Functional Analysis | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH302 | 2026 | Complex Analysis | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH304 | 2026 | Partial Differential Equations | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH306 | 2026 | Geometry of Curves and Surfaces | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH342 | 2026 | Modern Algebra | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH421 | 2026 | Analytic Number Theory | 10 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH422 | 2026 | Functional Analysis | 10 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH423 | 2026 | Measure and Integration | 10 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH424 | 2026 | Techniques in Applied Mathematics I | 10 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH425 | 2026 | Differential Geometry | 10 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH426 | 2026 | Techniques in Applied Mathematics II | 10 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH427 | 2026 | Advanced Algebra | 10 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH428 | 2026 | Optimization | 10 points | Not offered in 2026, expected to be offered in 2027 |
| MATH429 | 2026 | Introduction to General Relativity | 10 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH431 | 2026 | Topics in Advanced Mathematics | 10 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH432 | 2026 | Topics in Advanced Mathematics | 10 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH433 | 2026 | Topics in Advanced Mathematics | 10 points | Semester 1, Semester 2 |
| MATH434 | 2026 | Topics in Advanced Mathematics | 10 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH435 | 2026 | Topics in Advanced Mathematics | 10 points | Semester 1 |
| MATH436 | 2026 | Topics in Advanced Mathematics | 10 points | Semester 2 |
| MATH490 | 2026 | Dissertation | 40 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 25 June 2027) |
| MATH495 | 2026 | Master's Thesis Preparation | 40 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 25 June 2027) |
Contacts
Department of Mathematics and Statistics
Email maths@otago.ac.nz
Website otago.ac.nz/maths
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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2026 Calendar and supplementary material.
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