Postgraduate programmes
There are a number of active research groups working on problems in Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Statistics. Possible research areas in the department may be found in the Postgraduate Students area, or may be discussed with Dr Mark Hickman or Dr Marco Reale.
Apart from the University of Canterbury Scholarships, we may be able to offer some additional financial assistance in the form of part–time tutoring positions, and fees scholarships (at the NZ resident rate).
Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSc)
This is a one-year full–time course. The course may be taken by any BSc graduate with 90 points in 300-level courses approved by the Head of Department, and must include 60 points from MATH 310–399 or from STAT 310–399. A pass in eight one–semester courses chosen at the 400-level is normally required. Your choice requires the approval of the Head of Department. A completed Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSc) can be substituted for the course work year of a two-year Master of Science (MSc).
Master of Science (MSc) and Master of Arts (MA)
After obtaining your bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or Statistics, you may enrol for a master’s degree. The minimum period of study is two years full-time after a BSc/BA degree, or one year full-time after the respective Honours degree. The first year of the two–year master’s degree consists of at least eight one–semester 400-level courses. Again your choice requires the approval of the Head of Department. The second year (and also the one year masterate) consists of a thesis only. We almost always ask that you enrol for a BSc(Hons)/BA(Hons) or PGDipSc in your first year.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Having graduated with a good honours or msaster’s degree, you may enrol for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. You will work under the supervision of an academic staff member with whom you have a shared research interest. This normally involves at least three years full–time study. You must then present a thesis embodying the results of this research for examination.