Mathematics (MSc) University of Göttingen
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Language of instruction
- English
- Tuition fees
- No tuition fees
- Next application deadline
- View details
- Language level required
- English: C1German: None
Programme overview
Quick facts
- Degree
- MSc
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Intake
- Winter and summer semester
- Joint degree / double degree programme
- No
- A Diploma supplement will be issued
- Yes
- Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
- No
Language of instruction
Mathematics courses are held in English. Some courses in the minor subject might be taught in German, depending on the subject. Participants can choose to write the Master's thesis in either language.
Programme description
Mathematics embedded in an interdisciplinary environment is key to technology and innovation. The diversity of this fast-growing and evolving field addresses the challenges of problem-solving that ultimately shapes the future. Based on its achievements in higher education and research, the Department of Mathematics at the Georgia Augusta University of Göttingen continually enhances the close alliance between research and teaching. Consequently, one of the main objectives of this Master's programme is to prepare young mathematicians to conduct independent research and to make valuable contributions in industry and commerce as well as in educational and research institutions.
Main features:
- Research-based teaching and learning – promoting research-related courses and occupationally-orientated training within a familiar atmosphere in which students are trained in conducting independent research
- Academic guidance and individual counselling – following the tradition tracing back to Lichtenberg, a professor of mathematics and physics at Georgia Augusta between 1770 and 1799, who said of Göttingen that people "are taught how to think rather than being continuously taught what they ought to think"
- Internationality and cooperation – enhancing students' ability to work in international networks and partnerships, extending and institutionalising the collaboration with research establishments in science, commerce and community in and around Göttingen, in Germany, and abroad
Students may choose one out of three tracks, each with its own focus:
- general research-oriented track
- mathematical physics
- mathematical data science
Programme structure
In this well-structured but highly demanding Master's programme, students start out by broadening and deepening their knowledge of mathematics acquired during undergraduate studies and are then introduced to new aspects of their field of specialisation including recent developments.
A special focus is set on approaching traditional mathematical themes from a modern perspective. Profound expert and methodological knowledge is provided through an extensive and comprehensive selection of lectures, seminars and lab courses, encompassing topics in pure and applied mathematics, including statistics as well as minor subjects such as business administration, computer sciences, economics, philosophy or physics.
In the mathematics programme, students choose lecture courses and seminars from various subjects such as algebra, analysis, geometry, number theory, topology, numerical analysis, optimisation, image processing, statistics, stochastics, and mathematical data science.
In addition, students improve their soft skills in order to strengthen their personal responsibility and to acquire additional competencies for their future professional life. During their fourth semester, students work under supervision, but independently, on a scientific project.
Part-time studies are possible.
Mode of study
- Fully on-site
International elements in the curriculum
The curriculum of this study programme includes international elements that support global perspectives and cross-cultural learning:
- Language training provided
- Training in intercultural skills
- International guest lecturers
- Integrated/optional study abroad unit(s)
Within the framework of the Erasmus+ programme, students can study abroad for one or two semesters at one of 26 Erasmus+ partner institutions in 14 European countries.
The Global Exchange Programme of the University of Göttingen enables students to spend one or two semesters studying or researching at one of almost 50 partner universities in 15 countries on five continents.
Integrated internships
Internships will be acknowledged as key competencies with 10 ECTS credits.
Application and admission
Application period(s)
- Applicants who are neither EU/EFTA nationals nor hold an EU/EFTA university degree
- Applications open in February for entry the following October resp. August for entry the following April.
- Deadline: 15 April for entry the following October resp. 15 October for entry the following April
- EU/EFTA applicants and applicants holding an EU/EFTA university degree
- Applications open in May for entry the following October resp. November for entry the following April.
- Deadline: 1 July for entry the following October resp. 1 January for entry the following April.
Academic admissions requirements
Academic admission requirements include a Bachelor's degree (preferably with honours) in mathematics. For details, see: www.uni-goettingen.de/en/473506.html.
Language requirements
German language requirements
English language requirements
Accepted certificates include
| Certificates | Minimum result |
|---|---|
UNIcert® English
|
Total: UNIcert® III
|
Cambridge English Qualifications
|
Total: C1 Advanced
|
IELTS Academic
|
Total: 7 / 9
|
TOEFL iBT Home Edition (since 2026)
|
Total: 5 / 6
Reading: 5 / 6
Listening: 5 / 6
Writing: 5 / 6
Speaking: 5 / 6
|
TOEFL iBT (since 2026)
|
Total: 5 / 6
Reading: 5 / 6
Listening: 5 / 6
Writing: 5 / 6
Speaking: 5 / 6
|
How to apply?
Costs and funding
Tuition fees per semester
No tuition fees
Semester contribution
Fees are approx. 460 EUR per semester. This usually includes a prepaid semester ticket which entitles students to use regional trains in Germany free of charge as well as regional buses. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals are available at reduced prices at university canteens.
Cost of living
The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books are about 800 to 1,000 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age. International students should note that it is not possible to study in Germany without sufficient financing.
Further information on the requirements for non-EU citizens (proof of finances) can be found on the Visa and Residence Permit page of the International Office.
Part-time employment
The university supports students in finding part-time jobs in local industries and businesses. A number of student jobs are also available at the university. They are announced on the following website: www.stellenwerk-goettingen.de.
Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or work contract.
Non-EU students are allowed to work for a maximum of 120 full days (240 half days) per year.
Scholarships and financing information
Living & services
Support for international students
- Welcome event
- Buddy programme
- Accompanying programme
- Specialist counselling
The International Office provides services for international students.
German students help newly arrived students to adapt to the university and the city in the first weeks.
An orientation week for international students provides information about university and city.
Study Buddy Programme: part of the project Integration and Diversity at Göttingen University (InDiGU)
Foyer International: activities for all students
German courses during studies (free of charge)
Support for specific needs
Studying with a disability
The University of Göttingen provides a wide range of support for studying with a disability.
https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/408350.htmlRefugee programme
The University of Göttingen provides a wide range of support for refugees.
https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/613211.htmlStudying with a family
The University of Göttingen provides a wide range of support for students with dependants or children.
https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/584414.html
Course-specific language courses available
Career advisory services
Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides workshops, online learning modules, and a qualification programme as well as digital career tools and a virtual community for international employment opportunities.
If you have a promising business idea or are interested in the topic of founding a company, start-up support is offered! The University of Göttingen accompanies you on your way to self-employment and supports you with advice, funding, qualification formats and network contacts.
Accommodation
The Accommodation Service of the International Office supports international students who are enrolled at the University of Göttingen in finding accommodation and serves as a point of contact for related queries. The Accommodation Service also publishes suitable offers from private landlords in Göttingen and collaborates with the Student Services ("Studierendenwerk"). As the number of available accommodation options in Göttingen is limited, it is highly recommended to contact the Accommodation Service as early as possible.
Contact
Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science
- Address
- Bunsenstr. 3-5, 37073 Göttingen