Master’s Degree in Mathematics

Master’s Degree in Mathematics (LM-40)

Overview

The Master’s Degree in Mathematics is a two-year programme and represents the natural progression from the Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics. The primary objective of the programme is to produce graduates with an advanced level of expertise in mathematical disciplines. The knowledge acquired during these studies enables graduates to pursue careers in academia through scientific research, in secondary education through teaching, or within companies with high scientific and technological stakes.

To this end, the programme offers a wide variety of modules and is structured into three pathways (curricula): Theoretical, Applied, and Educational.

Programme Coordinator Prof. Giuseppe Di Fazio

Learning Objectives

The Master’s Degree in Mathematics at the University of Catania prepares highly qualified professionals in mathematical disciplines, capable of working in Scientific Research, education, or professional sectors requiring advanced skills for the understanding and development of mathematical applications.

The degree is organised into three curricula. The modules are divided into three learning areas: Advanced Theoretical Training, Applied Mathematical Modelling, and Interdisciplinary/Integrative Training. The distribution of these modules varies across each curriculum.

• The Theoretical curriculum prepares students for a career in research, typically pursued through a future PhD programme.

• The Applied curriculum focuses on mathematical modelling for economics or industry.

• The Educational curriculum combines modules oriented towards future teaching careers with general mathematical studies.

Students also have the option to propose individual study plans as an alternative to the three standard curricula.

The involvement of academic staff with expertise in diverse and advanced fields of modern pure and applied mathematics ensures a varied educational offering that meets student expectations. In addition to core mathematical modules, the programme includes interdisciplinary subjects such as Physics and Economics.

To accommodate the training of applied mathematicians, the curricula allow for a broad range of credits (CFUs) in specific scientific-disciplinary sectors. Graduates will possess a robust understanding of modern aspects of the discipline, current research topics, or significant applied methodologies. For a detailed description of the available pathways, please refer to the Study Plans page.

The Master’s programme requires students to acquire in-depth knowledge and methodologies in one or more specific areas of mathematics, fostering independent study through the extensive preparation required for the final thesis.

A variety of tools are employed to develop student knowledge and skills. The fundamental method consists of lectures combined with tutorials, some of which may be completed independently. Tutorials, individual research, and seminars within many modules promote greater autonomy and allow students to refine their communication skills, critical judgement, and independent problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, these tools enable the creation of personalised learning paths.

In several modules, the use of laboratories equipped with IT tools and scientific software—both in applied and theoretical courses—allows students to gain specific technical skills and independently experiment with the applications of their knowledge. Students are also encouraged to engage directly with mathematical literature and research, refining their ability to consult scientific texts and articles in both Italian and international journals. The independent drafting of the final dissertation serves as a definitive assessment of these skills and the mastery of standard scientific communication techniques in the mathematical field.

Career Opportunities and Employment Data

Professional Roles: Graduates in Mathematics find employment in research, teaching, and within corporate or industrial sectors. Those intending to pursue a career in research typically continue their education with a PhD. Those entering the education sector will take on roles as teachers in lower or upper secondary schools. Graduates employed by companies often hold qualified technical or managerial positions, leveraging the skills acquired during their studies, particularly those from the applied modules.

Core Competencies: Depending on the chosen curriculum, our graduates possess strong competencies in various mathematical fields. Specifically:

• Research-oriented students gain a solid general foundation allowing for specialisation in any area.

• Teaching-oriented students acquire the cultural and pedagogical depth necessary to address school curricula at all levels.

• Industry-oriented students possess specific technical skills, such as the ability to use advanced numerical methods, programming techniques, and optimisation algorithms.

Career Prospects: The Master’s Degree in Mathematics is designed for students aiming for a career in teaching, research, or professional activities within the communication and dissemination of Mathematics and Science. Graduates possess the necessary knowledge to operate in the industrial and service sectors, holding high-responsibility roles in the construction and computational development of mathematical models for various scientific, environmental, healthcare, industrial, financial, and public administration applications. Furthermore, graduates may progress to Doctoral (PhD) studies to dedicate themselves to research in either pure or applied mathematics.