MSc Maths

MSc students undertaken in the mathematics school are by dissertation only. This is planned after careful discussions with the supervisor (possibly in conjunction with the MSc course coordinator/ chairperson of the governing committee/ head of school), and where the student s background is adequate. 

Research Proposal

In the first few months of registration, the student must prepare a research proposal (with the assistance of the supervisor) for submission to the faculty. This varies in length, but is typically one or two pages long, and gives an outline of the topic to be studied in the research report. Once it has been accepted, the student s candidature for the degree is confirmed.

Dissertation for the MSc

The dissertation should demonstrate the student's understanding of the research topic, his/her ability to do research and the context/history of the research area. The dissertation is examined by both the internal and external examiners

Conversion to PhD

In the case of very promising dissertations, consideration may be given to converting an MSc registration to a PhD. Further details can be obtained from supervisors and the Faculty of Science.

Full-time/Part-time

Students are encouraged to register full-time. Full-time students can complete the degree in 1 to 2 years, and part-time in 2 to 4 years.

Students from outside the University

Students who have not completed an honours degree in mathematics at Witwatersrand University will have to convince their supervisor/ course coordinator/ head of school that their background is sufficient. For example, our honours students have usually completed courses (at third year and honours level) in complex analysis, topology, measure theory, functional analysis, and algebra. If their background is insufficient, they may have to attend honours courses, or undertake special reading courses.

Choice of Supervisor/ Direction

The school has supervisors who can supervise research in the following areas (see list of research areas here)

For names of possible supervisors, students may consult the Postgraduate Course Coordinator, but may also approach possible supervisors without the coordinator's intervention. Students are encouraged to speak to several possible supervisors before choosing their direction. Because of other commitments, some of the topics may not be available for supervision in a particular year.