Show/Hide navigation
University of Reading University of Reading
Mobile search categories
mask
CHOOSE A SUBJECT
2023/24
2024/25

MMath Mathematics and Meteorology

  • UCAS code
    GFC9
  • Typical offer
    ABC
  • Year of entry
    2023/24
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  4 Years
  • Year of entry
    2023/24
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  4 Years

Develop your independent research skills and gain an in-depth knowledge of the mathematics behind the Earth's weather systems and oceans on our MMath Mathematics and Meteorology degree.

Modern weather forecasting and climate prediction rely upon accurate numerical modelling of the atmosphere and oceans. This masters-level course will enable you to develop your mathematics skills whilst gaining a broad knowledge of meteorology and environmental physical science. You will spend roughly equal amounts of time on both subjects. The degree places a strong emphasis on developing independent research skills and is ideal if you are considering a career in the mathematical modelling of areas such as the atmosphere or fluid dynamic systems.

In mathematics you will study the theory and application of differential equations, underpinned with a knowledge of calculus, analysis and linear algebra. You will be given plenty of support to help you get the most out of your studies, including small group problem-solving tutorials and materials to help you manage the transition to university-level mathematics. Additionally, you can get involved with the Department's Staff Student Forums and the Student Teaching and Learning Group, which enable you to have a direct input into the student experience.

In meteorology you will explore the inner workings of weather systems from a physical and dynamic viewpoint. The course is theory-based and will cover subjects such as atmospheric physics, numerical methods, climate change, and weather and climate fundamentals. In the second year you will also take a skills module, which is designed to improve your transferable skills and enhance your employability. Many of our excellent teaching staff are world leaders in their fields and a number are Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) authors and Fellows of the Royal Society. We also have a Regius Professor of Meteorology and Climate Science. The University is one of only 19 institutes in the UK to have been awarded one of these prestigious positions by Her Majesty the Queen.

During the third and final years of the degree you can develop your knowledge by exploring areas of interest in greater depth. Half of the modules in this year are optional and include subjects from both areas of the course such as boundary layer meteorology, calculus of variations and oceanography. You will also complete a research project on a mathematical topic in the third year and an area of meteorology during the final year. A member of staff will support you in this work and, whichever research topic you pick, you can be sure of getting expert supervision.

It is also approved by the Royal Meteorological Society (RMetS) and is your first step towards becoming professionally accredited as either a Registered Meteorologist (RMet) or Chartered Meteorologist (CMet).

This course is approved by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications to meet the educational requirements of Chartered Mathematician status.

Placement

You may choose to carry out a summer placement in an area such as modelling or forecasting in order to gain an insight into industry and gain valuable experience.

Alternatively, you can opt to take the five-year version of this course, incorporating a year in industry. You will be given advice and support for finding the ideal placement, as well writing a CV and interview skills, by our dedicated placements officer.

For more information, please visit the Department of Maths and Statistics website.

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £9,250

New international students: £24,500

UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate tuition fees are regulated by the UK government. These fees are subject to parliamentary approval and any decision on raising the tuition fees cap for new UK students would require the formal approval of both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

This course will make you ideally placed to move into a career in mathematical modelling. For example, you could carry out flood modelling or pollution prediction for organisations such as the Environment Agency.

As a mathematics graduate, you can choose to work as a mathematician for public sector organisations, such as health authorities or the Office for National Statistics, or areas of the private sector including commerce and information technology. Furthermore, you can move into a range of related careers such as accountancy, financial analysis, engineering, computing or actuarial work.

Your meteorological knowledge will enable you to work as a forecaster or research scientist at a national organisation, such as the UK Met Office, or a commercial company. Financial businesses are increasingly employing weather forecasters to advise traders of the possible outcomes of the weather on prices of commodities, and a number of our graduates now work in this area.

Alternatively you can choose to further develop your skills by moving into research.