How to apply
All applications to the MPhil course must be made through the University Applicant Portal. Full information on the applications process is available on the Postgraduate Admissions website. Applicants are advised to read this information in full prior to initiating an application.
Applicants to this course should provide as part of their application evidence of their mathematical and computational ability. This is most important for applicants from the biosciences. This evidence could take the form of a brief overview of the mathematics/computing courses the applicant has taken at University level, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions, below.
Fees and Costs
Details of the fees and costs for this course are listed in the University Course Directory. Students are advised that the Department does not provide funding to cover any costs incurred as a result of carrying out their mandatory research project (eg. travel costs). Those students who undertake research projects outside of Cambridge will be expected to meet any additional costs themselves, unless arrangements can be made with the host organisation. If working away, the costs of returning to Cambridge in order to deliver the final assessed presentation will also need to be met by the student.
Funding opportunities
The Department does not currently have any studentships or funding opportunities to which students for this course may apply. Applicants are advised to investigate potential sources of funding as early as possible. Please note that funding applications as part of the University Postgraduate Funding Competition require application by an earlier closing date. Please submit your application, including all your supporting documentation, before the deadline in order to be considered.
Selection process
Applications are under review between September and April, and are normally reviewed in batches. Applicants are shortlisted for interview (usually held online, via Zoom) before a final decision is taken. In certain circumstances it may take some time for a final decision to be made and the outcome of your application may not be communicated to you until after the closing date for applications.
Further information and Frequently Asked Questions
Supporting Documents: References & Evidence of Mathematical and Computational Ability
Evidence of mathematical and computational ability could take the form of an overview of mathematics/computing courses the applicant has taken at University level. Applicants may wish to include evidence of projects where they have contributed.
References in support of an application should be from a maximum two academic referees who have known the applicant for a prolonged period (more than just a few weeks) and who know them well enough to comment on relevant skills / abilities.
Applicants with a background in Biosciences
MPhil students come from a range of backgrounds, mathematicians, computer scientists and those with Biomedical backgrounds. It is recommended that those with a Biological academic background gain experience by taking courses / working on projects with a strong mathematical computational element and programming, using R, Python. Your application and references should clearly evidence your quantitative skills, as well as your core expertise.
Please refer to the Course Overview presentation from Open Day 2021
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