Master Project Mathematics (T,E track)

URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/X_405037

Course Objective

The objectives of the master project are:
- to explore a mathematical research problem, or in case of an external project, to distill a mathematical problem formulation from the context of the host organisation,
- to study relevant papers from the (mathematical) literature, to combine those, and to add an original contribution,
- to put the results and conclusions in proper perspective, also in relation to results obtained by others,
- to present the research both in writing and in an oral presentation. The student is expected to show: -suficient mathematical maturity, -skills appropriate for a professional mathematician: technical mathematical skills, independence and initiative, originality and creativity and overview of the mathematical subject area.

Course Content

The Master's programme is concluded by an internal or external master project. An external project ("internship") is carried out within a business, industry or research facility other than the departments of Mathematics. For an internal research project, the student starts by identifying a research topic in consultation with his/her supervisor. This leads to a research plan, which is recorded in the 'master project planner' and a copy of this form is given to the master coordinator. The planner can be found on Canvas. The project itself usually starts with a literature study, leads towards the boundaries of mathematical knowledge, and ideally culminates in original research by the student. The work is carried out by the student individually, while there are weekly or biweekly meetings with the supervisor to discuss progress and scientific questions. The work is presented in a master thesis and in a final (oral) presentation. (mandatory).

Teaching Methods

Either the student performs individual research or the student is an intern at a host organization.

Method of Assessment

Assessment is based on attitude and execution (35%), the written masterthesis (50%) and the final presentation (15%). The form used for the assessment of a research project can be found on Canvas.

Literature

assigned individually

Target Audience

mMath

Additional Information

Please register for this course in VUnet, you then also have access to the information on Canvas. If you are planning to do an external project, please contact the MSc Mathematics coordinator at least four months prior to the start.

Entry Requirements

Before starting the project,
- the student in the Education track must have earned all other mathematics and elective credits of the programme except a shortfall of 8EC is permissible.
- the student in the Teachers track must have earned all other mathematics credits of the programme except a shortfall of 8EC is permissible.