Mathematics is the systematic study of patterns – such as those expressed through quantity, space, and change. Mathematicians use these patterns to formulate conjectures, that are assessed through formal proofs. The equations and models Mathematics develops are used to help the Natural Sciences draw valid inferences from their observations, while the observations made by the Natural Sciences provide patterns for mathematical analysis. Masters degrees in Mathematics (MAst, MSc, or MMath) require an academic background in Mathematics, or a related field. Due to the importance of numeracy in so many sectors today, Masters in Mathematics have a wide variety of different professional applications – from finance, to programming and software design; from market research, to accountancy. Whether these professions require further certification or not, Mathematics provides an excellent bridge from undergraduate study into a student’s subsequent career development.
