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The MSci Mathematics (Mathematical Biology) at the University of Exeter combines rigorous mathematical training with specialised applications in understanding living systems, helping you analyse biological complexity using mathematical modelling, statistics and computation. It’s ideal for students curious about applying quantitative skills to biology, ecology, medicine and life sciences research, while gaining strong analytical and research experience.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
Your first year builds core mathematical foundations with compulsory modules such as Mathematical Structures, Mathematical Methods, Mathematical Modelling and Probability, Statistics and Data, introducing you to proofs, calculus, modelling techniques, and introductory statistics — all essential for advanced study with Foundations of Mathematics supporting any background gaps. These modules sharpen your logical thinking, problem‑solving and computational skills to prepare you for more specialised work later.
Year 2
In your second year you deepen your mathematical knowledge with Differential Equations and Vector Calculus and Applications, while choosing optional streams such as Real and Complex Analysis, Linear Algebra, Statistical Modelling and Inference and Modelling: Theory and Practice that help tailor your degree toward theoretical or applied pathways. You can also take up to 30 credits of elective modules from across the university to broaden your learning and interests.
Year 3
Third year introduces you to core mathematical biology topics such as Mathematical Biology and Ecology and Computational Nonlinear Dynamics, alongside Research in Mathematical Sciences, which enhances your research skills. This year also offers a rich selection of optional advanced modules from Theory of Weather and Climate to Stochastic Processes, Graph Theory and Statistical Inference letting you focus your studies on areas that align with your interests.
Final Year
Your final year brings advanced study with compulsory modules including Mathematical Modelling in Biology and Medicine and the major MSci Project, a substantial independent research experience where you explore a topic of your choice under academic supervision. A wide range of optional masters‑level modules such as Advanced Topics in Mathematical & Computational Biology, Data‑driven Analysis of Dynamical Systems and Uncertainty Quantification allows you to further specialise.
Focus areas:
Mathematical modelling of biological systems, ecological and medical applications, computational dynamics, statistics and data‑driven analysis.
Learning outcomes:
Graduates will develop advanced analytical thinking, strong mathematical modelling and computational skills, the ability to apply quantitative methods to biological and ecological problems, and experience in independent research.
Professional alignment (accreditation):
This degree meets the educational requirements for the Chartered Mathematician designation awarded by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), supporting your pathway to professional recognition in mathematical careers.
Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Exeter is ranked Top 20 in the UK for Mathematics in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026, and 84 % of its mathematics graduates are in or due to start employment or further study within 15 months of graduating, reflecting strong outcomes and demand for Exeter‑educated mathematicians.
This interdisciplinary MSci degree is designed so that you apply mathematical thinking directly to real biological and ecological systems — not just learn theory in lectures. Throughout the programme, you’ll work with computational tools and modelling techniques used in contemporary research, and your learning is closely connected to the research strengths of Exeter’s Mathematics and Biology communities. You’ll build practical skills in areas like mathematical modelling of life‑science processes, data analysis, and computational dynamics, giving you a real edge whether you pursue research, industry, or graduate study.
From the start you’ll engage in project‑style work and progressively develop independence through research‑focused modules, culminating in a substantial MSci research project where you apply your mathematical and computational skills to a real biological problem under academic supervision.
Practical & Experiential Features of the MSci Mathematics (Mathematical Biology)
Research‑Driven Final Year Project: Your MSci Project (45 credits) is a major independent research experience where you choose a biological application of mathematics, design and test models, and present your findings mirroring real research practice.
Applied Mathematical Modelling in Biology: You’ll take Mathematical Modelling in Biology and Medicine in your final year, giving you hands‑on practice building and analysing models of biological systems.
Computational and Simulation Skills: Modules such as Computational Nonlinear Dynamics introduce you to numerical methods and simulation tools essential for analysing complex living systems.
Project Work Across Levels: Several modules include structured project work and report writing, helping build academic research skills, communication, and independent problem solving early in your degree. Commercial and Industrial Experience (Optional): You can choose the Commercial and Industrial Experience module before your third year to gain paid work experience in a commercial setting while earning credit — a great way to test your skills in professional contexts.
Elective Flexibility: You can take up to 30 credits of electives each year from across the university, enabling you to tailor your experience with modules from biological sciences or computation that enhance your practical skillset.
Research‑Led Teaching Environment: You’ll be taught by faculty active in mathematical biology research, so examples, problems and projects reflect current scientific questions and practices.
Graduate outcomes summary: The MSci Mathematics (Mathematical Biology) at the University of Exeter prepares you for careers that blend deep mathematical expertise with biological insight, giving you the tools to tackle complex challenges in fields like computational biology, environmental analysis and life sciences data. Graduates typically move into roles such as Biological Data Analyst, Mathematical Modeller in industry or research, Environmental Analyst and Research Scientist:
Progression & Future Opportunities:
University services that will help you employ: Exeter’s Career Zone offers personalised guidance to help you build your CV, prepare for interviews and connect with employers from analytics, biotech and scientific sectors ensuring you’re confident stepping into the job market.
Employment stats & performance: Mathematics degrees at Exeter show strong outcomes, with 84% of graduates in or due to start employment or further study within 15 months after graduating, illustrating solid prospects whether you choose industry or research roles.
Industry exposure & professional experience: You can take an optional Commercial and Industrial Experience module to gain paid work experience in a real business setting during your degree, which enhances your practical skills and professional network.
Accreditation and long‑term value: This MSci is accredited to meet the educational requirements for the Chartered Mathematician designation from the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), boosting your professional credibility long‑term.
Graduation outcomes: Beyond specialist biological modelling careers, Exeter mathematics alumni go into diverse roles including Analyst Programmer, Business Analyst, Data Science Developer, Statistician and Software Engineer, reflecting the broad applicability of strong analytical skills.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSci, you could pursue doctoral (PhD) research in areas such as mathematical biology, computational biology, ecology modelling or interdisciplinary applied mathematics, setting you up for advanced research roles or academic careers. Alternatively, you might follow professional development pathways in data science, bioinformatics or environmental analytics to strengthen your expertise and increase leadership opportunities in science and industry.
The typical A-Level offer is: A*AA, IB: 38. Minimum percentage required (12 standard or HSC) 80%IELTS - 6.5 overall and no less than 5.5 in any sectionTOEFL - 90 with minimum scores of 20 in speaking and 18 for writing, listening and reading. PTE - 67 with no less than 59 in all communicative skillsDUOLINGO - 120 overall and no less than 120 in Literacy, 105 in Conversation, 120 in Comprehension and 90 in Production UK/USA/INDIA - For direct entry onto our Masters programmes you will be required to hold a relevant Bachelors degree with a grade equivalent to a UK Second-class honours (2:1 or 2:2)INDIA - First - 3.7/4.0INDIA - 2:1 - 3.0/4.0INDIA - 2:2 - 2.5/4.0USA - First-class Honours - 3.75+ / 4.0 GPAUSA - Upper Second-class Honours (2:1) - 3.2+ / 4.0 GPAUSA - Lower Second-class Honours (2:2) - 2.6+ / 4.0 GPAMathematiciansData analystData scientistInvestment analystResearch scientist (maths)
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