Mathematics University of Bonn

Most modules are offered in English. Very few lectures are held in German. Of course, it is possible to complete this programme only in English.

The research-oriented Master's programme in Mathematics enables students to reach the forefront of knowledge in one of the following major fields of pure and applied mathematics:

• algebra, number theory and logic
• analysis and differential equations
• discrete mathematics
• geometry and topology
• numerical mathematics and scientific computing
• stochastics

The two-year programme offers basic and advanced lecture courses and seminars taught in English. Participants complete the programme with a Master's thesis. Students with a strong interest in applications of mathematics in other sciences are encouraged to study a secondary subject. Moreover, students have the possibility of honing their practical skills in an internal or external internship.
The Master's programme is offered by the Mathematical Institute, the Institute for Applied Mathematics, the Research Institute for Discrete Mathematics and the Institute for Numerical Simulation. Bonn is regarded as one of the best places in Europe for a mathematical education. In 2006, the Excellence Initiative awarded Bonn with a Cluster of Excellence in mathematics, which was named Hausdorff Center for Mathematics in honour of Felix Hausdorff. It was successfully renewed twice: once in 2012 and in 2018 for seven years.

For the winter semester:
15 May or 15 August (domestic applicants)
15 January or 15 May (international applicants)

For the summer semester:
15 January

The two-year programme offers basic and advanced modules in a large number of areas within mathematics and is completed with a Master's thesis. Each student can create a study plan according to his or her own interests. General and exemplary study plans can be found on our website.

The modules are divided into the following categories:

• lecture course modules
• graduate seminar modules
• practical training course modules
• Master's thesis and Master's thesis seminar

Lecture courses are often accompanied by problem sessions or tutorials.
In graduate seminars, the topic is taught in presentations given by the participating students who learn how to prepare and give a mathematical talk.

Practical training courses can be either practical teaching courses, external internships, or one of the various practical programming courses.
For the Master's thesis, the typical preparation time is 12 months. The preparation is accompanied by the Master's thesis seminar, where the students give talks about their progress.

Students interested in applications of mathematics in other sciences or industry are encouraged to take a secondary subject.

Internships are an optional part of the programme (practical training course).

No tuition fees

The University of Bonn is a public university, meaning that it does not charge tuition fees. However, all students must pay the so-called social contribution (semester fee) of about 330 EUR per semester. It includes, among other things, a student transit pass for public transport and a statutory accident insurance.

The cost of living for students in Bonn is around 800 EUR to 1,000 EUR, with rent accounting for the largest share.

In order to be admitted to our Master's programme in Mathematics, you have to:

1. hold a Bachelor's degree in mathematics or an equivalent degree with good grades (comparable to the German grade 2.5 or better),
2. prove that you earned 120 ECTS credit points from mathematical modules, and
3. prove your knowledge of English.

Furthermore, non-European applicants may be invited for a qualifying test.

Applicants must provide proof of their English language skills, e.g., with a TOEFL certificate. Our requirement for the TOEFL is 550 points (paper-based), 215 points (computer-based) or 79 points (Internet-based). Our requirement for IELTS is a score of 6.0.

For the winter semester:
15 May or 15 August (domestic applicants)
15 January or 15 May (international applicants)

For the summer semester:
15 January

No

Students of the Master's programme in Mathematics can apply for various student assistant posts after their arrival in Bonn. Typical jobs include library help, programming or teaching assistantships. Please note that proficiency in German may be a requirement.

Students of the University of Bonn can apply for a room in a dormitory of the Studierendenwerk Bonn (further information: www.studierendenwerk-bonn.de/en/accommodation).

For further information on housing in Bonn, please visit our website: www.uni-bonn.de/housing.

The University of Bonn has a central Career Service (www.uni-bonn.de/careerservice) that offers a range of advice and support regarding career choices and job applications. Moreover, international students can join the iStart career programme (www.uni-bonn.de/istart), which teaches participants tangible knowledge and valuable skills that will enable them to write successful applications for jobs in Germany. The programme is geared toward giving students a successful career path both during and after their studies and thus making it easier for them to enter the job market.

The University of Bonn offers a range of different support programmes for international students. The Welcome Days before the start of every semester are an opportunity for new students from abroad to gather information on the most important issues, such as enrolment, registration with the local authorities, and opening a bank account. Getting to know fellow international and German students during recreational activities is another benefit of the Welcome Days.

The Study Buddy programme matches newly arrived international students (mentees) with a University of Bonn student (buddy) who helps them as they start their studies and adjust to life in Bonn. The buddies give tips, advice and assistance that make it easier for their mentees to become familiar with the university and get settled in Bonn.