MSc in Scientific Computing

The field of scientific computing addresses the mathematical modeling and efficient numerical computation of complex problems from technology, economics, and the natural sciences. Today's product research and development would be unthinkable without numerical simulations using computers. Specific applications of scientific computing range from crash tests to electromagnetic compatibility, optimization of fuel cells, calculating prices of financial derivatives, and the simulation of biological processes. This new international degree program in mathematics will enable the University of Bayreuth to prepare highly talented students for future challenges in the field of numerical simulation.

Why study Scientific Computing in Bayreuth?

The University of Bayreuth has performed well in the CHE University Ranking for years thanks to the strong supervision its students receive in the various subject areas. As a master's student, you will be enrolled in an intensive program of study in which small groups, first-rate instrumentation, and a friendly working atmosphere between students and instructors are the rule. Students love our charming campus. Everything you need is right at your doorstep, and it’s easy to get to know students from other subject areas.

There is also a rich student life outside of the lecture halls. Examples include the University’s orchestra, its big band, and the extensive University Sports program. In addition, life in Bayreuth is not nearly as expensive as it is in many other parts of Germany. The town and surrounding region also provide a great setting for student life, with plenty to do in your free time.

Over the past several years, numerical simulations of phenomena in technology and the natural sciences have been shown to be essential tools for accelerating development cycles in industry and businesses. Whereas researchers once had to meticulously study the properties of a product on the basis of prototypes, they are now simulated and optimized on computers. Demands on the capabilities of numerical simulation continue to grow with the need for models that are more and more precise, the incorporation of new problem areas such as data analysis (e.g. big data), and parameter-dependent problems and models with uncertain data. This was triggered by the relatively young and forward-looking research area of scientific computing.

The field addresses the entire solution chain, including modeling; mathematical, numerical, and statistical analysis; optimization; the implementation of algorithms on high-performance computers; and the visualization of results. However, little attention has been paid to training students in this development. Graduates of mathematics are generally still limited to a basic understanding of numerics and scientific computing. Due to the high demands of studying mathematics, there is usually not much time left over to transfer newly acquired knowledge to neighboring fields that represent intellectual challenges in their own right.

Structure and content

The objective of the international master’s program is thus to provide a specialized range of courses that leads highly qualified, hard-working students toward the development and mathematical analysis of highly efficient numerical methods. It is a crucial point that highly complex problems are brought to a less complex numerical approximation (on parallel computers) via an understanding of their mathematical core. The master’s program involves – and is motivated by – a number of courses in other subject areas (biochemistry, physics, computer science, and engineering), in which the simulation of demanding problems plays a crucial role. The program is geared toward students working at the intersection of mathematics, computer science, and physics. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to achieve and apply their specialized understanding of efficient methods for solving differential and integral equations and analyzing large sets of data, and to extend this know-how to other subject areas.

Thanks to its structure and selection of courses, the master’s program is well-suited to getting top students involved in current research on scientific computing at an early stage. In particular, the content is divided up so as to allow for a fast-track option for doctoral research. Financial support is available for research visits to international experts. Students complete internships and modeling seminars in close cooperation with high-tech companies alongside their studies. This enables a smooth transition to a challenging position in the field.

Doing a doctorate at the University of Bayreuth

The University of Bayreuth Graduate School supervises doctoral students of all subjects who are pursuing a doctorate in a structured program or at one of the University's seven faculties. We facilitate scientific exchange already in the earliest phase of independent research and complement the interdisciplinary education of doctoral students with additional teaching and training opportunities. Our aim is to create the perfect research and learning conditions for them.