The BSc in Mathematical Science offers a highly flexible programme, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. They may choose to focus on pure mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, or combine elements from all three areas. Students also have the opportunity to take modules in bioinformatics, physics, chemistry, and biology, especially in the early years of the programme.

 

One of the programme’s key strengths is its flexibility. In the first two years, students gain a broad foundation in the mathematical sciences, enabling them to make well-informed choices about their areas of specialisation in the third and fourth years.

 

In year three, students have the option of applying to study abroad for one semester. In their fourth year, students complete a project under the guidance of a faculty member, through which they can develop research and mathematical writing skills, and presentation experience.

 

Year 1

• Mathematics
• Applied Mathematics
• Probability Models and Statistical Methods
• Introduction to Programming
• One of: Biology, Chemistry, Physics
• Mathematical Science Workshop Series

 

Year 2

Curriculum core consists of components from the following modules/pathways:

• Linear Algebra
• Discrete Mathematics
• Differential Forms
• Complex Analysis
• Probability
• Statistical Inference
• Mechanics
• Mathematical Methods
• Up to one-third of the second-year curriculum can be selected from a list of additional options, some offered from within the school and some available within other science disciplines, subject by first-year prerequisites.

Years 3 and 4

• Selection of specialised modules from chosen areas of the mathematical sciences. More details can be found at GY319 Mathematical Science here.
• Final-year project in subject area of your choice. 

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

• Remarkably flexible program of study.
• Develops problem-solving, numeracy and statistical skills highly sought after by employers.
• Equips graduates with a strong foundation for further academic study in the mathematical sciences.

Previous graduates have entered diverse careers spanning the public and private sectors, as well as education.

The reasoning skills and problem-solving abilities of Mathematical Science graduates are highly valued and the career opportunities are diverse, both in the public and private sectors.

Many graduates are employed in the financial and actuarial services, while others are working in the IT industry, particularly in programming and software development. Others work in the pharmaceutical industry, doing clinical research, and in secondary and tertiary education, and the civil service.

Employers often seek graduates who possess a strong set of transferable skills rather than in-depth knowledge of a specific industry. Key among these are problem-solving, critical thinking, statistical skills, programming, 

and numeracy. A degree in Mathematical Sciences equips students with these valuable skills, something employers recognize and value.

Graduates have a broad range of options for postgraduate work available to them. Opportunities include MSc or PhD programmes at University of Galway and further afield in all areas of the Mathematical Sciences. Interdisciplinary research options are also available.

In year three of the programme, students have the option to apply to study abroad in Semester 2.  The University has established numerous links with University throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. More information can be found the following link Study Abroad - University of Galway

The basic unit of teaching activity is the module. Most modules account for 5 credits (ECTS) and involve 24 lectures, with weekly tutorials and possibly laboratory sessions in addition. The usual format of delivery for a 5-credit module is that lectures are prepared and given by a member of academic staff, who also has overall responsibility for assessment and for the management and running of the module, including communication of essential information to students and responding to queries.  

How Will I Learn?

1. Lectures — Each module typically has 2 lectures per week for a period of 12 weeks delivered by a member of academic staff.
2. Tutorials — Lectures are typically supplemented by 1 tutorial per week. The tutorials frequently involve problem-solving sessions and are often overseen by postgraduate students.
3. Computer Practicals —  Some modules, particularly those involving computer programming, have computer practical sessions. They are typically supervised by academic staff or postgraduate students.
4. Project-based learning —Examples include the creation of short videos, poster exhibitions, and debating competitions. In the final year, students complete a substantial written mathematical project under the supervision of an academic member of staff.   
5. Technology-Enhanced Learning—Some modules incorporate technologies such as live polling, videos, and interactive computing in their lectures.  

Timetables can be found at the following link SchoolMaster  

How Will I Be Assessed?

1. Continuous Assessment— All modules in the programme contain a continuous assessment component, which typically accounts for about 30% of the overall marks. Continuous assessments can take the form of in-class tests, home works, online quizzes, posters, or statistical reports.
2. Examinations— Written formal exams take place before Christmas and in May. They typically account for between 60 and 70% of the overall marks for a module.
3. Project Work—In year four, students complete a written mathematical report that accounts for two modules.

Programme Director:
Dr Martin Meere
Lecturer
School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
College of Science and Engineering,
E: martin.meere@universityofgalway.ie
T: 091 493087

Minimum Entry Requirements

Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at O6/H7 Level in the Leaving Certificate, including Irish, English, Mathematics, a laboratory science subject (i.e., Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Physics with Chemistry (joint), Agricultural Science or Computer Science) or Technology, and any two other subjects recognised for entry purposes. Additional requirements: Minimum H4 in Mathematics or, alternatively, obtain a pass in the Engineering Maths Qualifying Exam (held in the University).

Additional Requirements

Students must obtain a minimum of Grade H4 in the Higher Level Leaving Certificate paper in Mathematics or, alternatively places available (which may vary in number year to year) may be allocated to candidates who have achieved the points requirement for the programme that year, and who attain a Pass in the Engineering Maths Qualifying Examination. The places available will be allocated in strict order of merit based points attained in the Leaving Certificate. Due to capacity constraints, not all candidates who achieve a pass in the examination may receive an offer.

Alternative Pathways

The Access Centre at University of Galway provides a number of alternative entry routes to undergraduate programmes. See below some useful links:

• QQI/FET/FETAC Places
• Mature Students
• Access and Foundation programmes
• HEAR Scheme
• DARE Scheme

Other Qualifications

If you are a school leaver presenting results other than Leaving Cert results, please review the entry requirements relevant to you:

• A Level students
• International Baccalaureate students
• EU students

For applicants whose first language is not English, it is important to check our English Language Requirements.

Admissions Office

Our Admissions Office provides additional detail relevant to CAO applicants including key dates, FAQs and instructions for non-school leavers.

Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants

Apply via the CAO. See the CAO Handbook for useful information on applying through the CAO.

Mature Applicants

Apply via the CAO by 1 February. To apply for a place as a mature student, you must be 23 years of age on or before 1 January of the year of entry. Further information available here.

QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants

Apply via the CAO. See our QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants page for information on places available and entry requirements,  

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
	All	€4,268	€3,000	€27,000	€140	€3,140	€7,408	€27,140

• Most EU students applying through the CAO will be eligible for the ‘Free Fees Initiative’. You can find out more here.
• If you are eligible for a means tested SUSI grant this may cover 100% of this Student Contribution Charge. If you are 100% eligible SUSI will pay the Student Contribution Charge of €3,000 on your behalf. 
• The Student Levy It is payable by all students and it is not covered by SUSI
• Where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing year fees. This applies to non-EU fees.
• You can find additional detail on the Fees Office webpage including FAQs and how fee status is assessed.

High-achieving undergraduate students are encouraged to apply for a range of prestigious scholarships that recognise academic excellence and support students in reaching their full potential. Click here for further Information.

 

Application Process

Students applying for full undergraduate degree programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), and who are liable for full non-EU tuition fees, should apply to University of Galway. Our application portal opens on the 1^st October each year for each the following September.  

Further Information

Please visit the international application webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.

Scholarships

Non EU students applying for programmes  within the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences maybe eligible to apply for a number of scholarships including our Merit and Excellence Scholarships.  For further information please visit here.