Why study this course?
There is a growing worldwide demand for students with skills in mathematical biology academic research, as well as in the life sciences industrial sector, including biotechnology, biomedical, healthcare and pharmaceutical companies.
- Take a course of study tailored to your interests
- Explore modern and relevant ideas in mathematical biology
- Be ready to pursue a PhD and academic career in mathematical biology
- Acquire the qualifications and skills for a career in the biomedical sector
Teaching
A mix of lectures, small group tutorials, one-to-one discussion and practical computer sessions.
Class sizes
From 10 to 60 students.
Dissertation
An end-of-course three-month research activity with ongoing support culminating in a 15,000-word dissertation.
Assessment
A mix of exams, coursework, tests, presentations, research essays and a research project.
Modules
The St Andrews degree structure is designed to be flexible. You study compulsory modules delivering core learning together with optional modules you choose from the list available that year.
If you choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a postgraduate diploma (PGDip) instead, finishing the course at the end of the second semester of study.
Course information may change. Module information and course content, teaching and assessment may change each year and after you have accepted your offer to study at the University of St Andrews. We display the most up-to-date information possible, but this could be from a previous academic year. For the latest module information, see the module catalogue.
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- Spatial Models and Pattern Formation in Mathematical Biology: explores applications of partial differential equation to real world biological and medical problems, such as cell migration, pattern formation in animal coat markings, and spread of infectious diseases.
- Mathematical Oncology: using a wide range of methods and techniques we develop and study mathematical models addressing biomedical questions in cancer growth, metastasis and treatment.
- Advanced Computational Techniques: introduces important advanced applied analytic techniques, such as variational calculus, integral equations, solutions to differential equations by contour integrals, and the theory of steepest descent.
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- Population Dynamics Models in Mathematical Biology: explores applications of difference and ordinary differential equations mathematics to real world biological problems, such as harvesting of fish stocks, host-parasitoid systems, and predator-prey dynamics.
- Calculus of Variations in Biological Modelling: using variational techniques as a main tool, we develop mathematical models for various biological phenomena, including cell migration, protein structure, and limb regeneration.
- Stochastic Dynamics: introduces stochastic mathematical modelling with a focus on applications in biology, such as gene regulation, and the dynamics of cell or animal
populations.
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MSc students complete a dissertation during the final three months of the course to be submitted near the end of August. Dissertations are supervised by members of teaching staff who will advise on the choice of subject and provide guidance throughout the progress of the dissertation.
What it will lead to
Careers
The skills obtained during this MSc programme are highly valued for a PhD and further academic career in mathematical biology as well as for a professional research scientist career in the private sector.
These skills are sought after, among others, in advanced Research and Development positions in:
- pharmaceutical companies
- medical devices companies
- life-sciences industry
We are committed to supporting your career aspirations, whatever stage your career is at.
Our International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute can help connect you to our extensive global alumni community for advice and mentoring, as well as offering career coaching, bespoke workshops, employer connections, experiences, and application support.
Our Careers Centre can also support you with academic and professional skills development.
Elevate your career
Graduates from Mathematics and Statistics MSc programmes have gone on to work in a variety of organisations, including:
- Civil Service
- DEFRA
- King's College London
- World Bank
Further your education
Many graduates of the MSc programmes in the School of Mathematics and Statistics continue their education by enrolling in PhD programmes at St Andrews or elsewhere.
Go your own way
Our Entrepreneurship Centre offers training and start-up support, gives you access to experienced and expert mentors and an investor network, and one-to-one advice to help you realise your commercial potential.
Why St Andrews?
The School of Mathematics and Statistics has active seminars in:
- Applied Mathematics
- Mathematical Biology
- Pure Mathematics
- Statistics
Events
There are a number of different research groups held each week in the School of Mathematics and Statistics.
Statistics
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling seminars
- Statistics seminars
- National Centre for Statistical Ecology seminar series
Pure Mathematics
- Pure Mathematics colloquia
- Analysis Group seminars
Applied Mathematics
- Applied Mathematics seminars
Alumni
Whether you join us online or in person, when you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A 2.1 undergraduate Honours degree in Mathematics, Statistics or a closely related subject area.
The qualifications listed are indicative of standard requirements for entry. Some academic Schools may require applicants to achieve higher grades than the standard to be competitive. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University takes a holistic view of every application.
If your qualification does not appear in the list, it may not meet the typical requirements for entry to this programme. You may need a higher-level qualification to be competitive, for example, a Masters degree.
English language requirements
Some applicants may need to provide an English language test score to evidence their English language ability. Find out who needs to provide evidence of English language ability. Details of acceptable tests and scores are provided below.
Test scores are only normally accepted if obtained within two years of the programme start date.
Application requirements
- CV or résumé
- personal statement (optional)
- one original signed academic reference
- academic transcripts and degree certificates
Fees and funding
- UK: Tuition fees have yet to be set.
- Rest of the world: Tuition fees have yet to be set.
Application fee
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
- Postgraduate online information events
- The School can help with course content, teaching and other topics: ask the School
- Ask University Admissions about how to apply, fees, scholarships and other topics
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 20 August 2026