Mathematics CDT Programme
The aim of the CDT is to offer advanced research training in all areas of mathematics of the highest quality and to prepare doctoral students for their future career. The breadth of expertise in the Department, together with a thriving culture of research, international visitors, seminars and workshops, makes the Department one of the best universities in the UK to undertake a postgraduate research programme.
Year 1
The first year of studies provides a foundation of essential mathematical and generic tools and serves to enable students to complete a successful and rewarding PhD.
- Taught modules: Students choose at least four modules from a broad range.
Every year there will be PhD level modules tailored to the needs of the CDT students. Students can also select MSc level modules, participate at hybrid graduate level courses offered by other universities via the Taught Course Centre, or attend modules from other departments or CDTs. - Project: An individual project is completed with a report close to the end of the first year.
It prepares for the PhD project and is on a topic which is agreed with the supervisor(s). This is an opportunity to engage with independent research as it is expected from research students. - Professional development: Training in transferable skills is provided by the Warwick Mathematics Institute and the Science Faculty.
All new PhD students are initially registered on the MPhil degree course. Subject to satisfactory progress with the above points, students are upgraded to the PhD degree course.
Later Years
From the second year, students use their acquired skills in earnest to tackle original problems. However, mathematical research is not always that straightforward. The first point of contact is the supervisor, who should be regularly met to discuss progress. There are many more opportunities to come up with new ideas and to broaden your skills:
- Progress: Students meet with a mentor (separate form the main supervisor) on a yearly basis to discuss their academic progress. This is also an opportunity of reflection, resolving issues, and identifying gaps in their broader development of becoming a researcher.
- Conferences and visits: Students have access to funding to participate in workshops and conferences, and to visit external experts. Moreover, Warwick enjoys an excellent reputation and attracts experts from all over the world to its conferences.
- Seminars: The research strength and breadth of the Mathematics Institute manifests in numerous seminar series with in-depth presentations by national and international scientists.
- Teaching: Opportunities to assist undergraduates in their learning also provide training in a variety of skills of relevance in academia and industry.
Students submit their theses at the end of their registration period and then defend their findings in a viva (oral examination).