-2
$\begingroup$

I am currently studying a bachelor's in (joint honours) Mathematics and Computer Science in the UK. I am intrigued by the sorts of problems present in theoretical computer science and I want to entertain the possibility of pursuing a PhD. However, I must first of course pursue a master's degree. The issue is I cannot find a master's degree with a focus in theoretical computer science in the UK (if you accept the notion of a master's degree being a specialist degree). In turn, I am not sure what sort of courses I should be looking for that would adequately prepare me for this field.

After browsing this forum for some time, I have found a mathematics background is paramount to theory. I will have what one may consider a formal background in mathematics by the time of graduation but I am not sure as to what exactly I should be doing. Would a pure mathematics master's be the best route?

Any insight or clarification into this would be appreciated greatly!

| cite | improve this question | |
$\endgroup$
  • $\begingroup$ I will have covered 60% of each subject as if you were to have taken a single honours route so I will definitely have at least all the basic CS courses as well as mathematics courses. In the UK, top universities like Imperial, Cambridge, Oxford and Edinburgh require a master's degree (or undergraduate integrated master's which would equate to the same). $\endgroup$ – someone111 Nov 30 '18 at 21:11
  • $\begingroup$ imperial.ac.uk/computing/prospective-students/courses/phd/… "Applicants are expected to have a First Class/Distinction Masters level degree, or equivalent, in a relevant scientific or technical discipline, such as computer science or mathematics. Candidates who have only a Bachelors degree will not normally be considered.." $\endgroup$ – someone111 Nov 30 '18 at 21:14
  • $\begingroup$ Okay, some places require indeed a 4 year (undergrad/integrated master's) degree. But not all, for example UCL writes "In common with other departments in the UK, we normally expect candidates wishing to embark on a research degree to have a bachelor’s degree with first or upper second-class Honours, and/or a distinction at Master’s level, in an appropriate subject." $\endgroup$ – Iddo Tzameret Nov 30 '18 at 21:30
  • $\begingroup$ Try looking for MPhil programs. MPhil courses at many British schools, like Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Birmingham, etc. certain allow you to do coursework and research in theory. $\endgroup$ – xrq Nov 30 '18 at 21:45
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ Have a look at the French MPRI. Loads of courses to choose from, and I believe English is always available. $\endgroup$ – Michaël Cadilhac Dec 1 '18 at 12:24
4
$\begingroup$

In many places (certainly most of USA and Canada) a master's is not required before a PhD. There it is fine, and probably recommended, to just apply directly to PhD programs from undergrad. I am not sure if the situation is the same in the U.K. or elsewhere in Europe. In any case, it's a good idea to meet with one of your math/CS professors to ask for advice on this process.

| cite | improve this answer | |
$\endgroup$
  • $\begingroup$ Thank you. That's probably what I should have tried out first. It just made sense to me since I've spent a considerable amount of time on this forum and so I thought I should probably ask those that have gone down the route I'm intending to. Please see my comments in regards to the situation in the UK. $\endgroup$ – someone111 Nov 30 '18 at 21:18

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.