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Postgraduate Study

The MPhil programme in Scientific Computing provides world-class education on high performance computing and advanced algorithms for numerical simulation at continuum and atomic-scale levels. The course trains early-career scientists in the use of existing computational software and in the underlying components of the simulation pipeline, from mathematical models of physical systems and advanced numerical algorithms for their discretisation, to object-oriented programming and methods for high-performance computing for deployment in contemporary massively parallel computers. As a result, course graduates have rigorous research skills and are formidably well-equipped to proceed to doctoral research or directly into employment. The highly transferable skills in algorithm development and high-performance computing make our graduates extremely employable in all sectors of industry, commerce and finance, including aerospace, manufacturing, energy, hedge funds and fintech.

The MPhil in Scientific Computing is suitable for graduates from any discipline of natural sciences, technology or engineering, who have good mathematical and computational skills.

The MPhil in Scientific Computing is offered by the Department of Physics as a full-time course and introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are:

  • To provide education in Scientific Computing of the highest quality at a graduate level and to produce graduates of the calibre sought by industry, the professions, and the public service.

  • To provide training for the academic researchers and teachers of the future.

  • To encourage and pursue research of the highest quality in Scientific Computing and its applications.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will have:

  • a comprehensive understanding of numerical methods and high-performance computing techniques applicable to their own research area;
  • demonstrated independent research capability in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
  • shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies; and
  • demonstrated self-direction in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.

Continuing

Students wishing to progress to PhD study after passing the Masters degree should reapply for admission to a PhD through the University admissions website, taking the funding and application deadlines into consideration.


Open Days

The Department of Physics participates in the University of Cambridge's Postgraduate Open Day.

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

  • Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

  • Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.


Departments

This course is advertised in the following departments:

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Key Information


12 months full-time

Study Mode : Taught

Master of Philosophy

Department of Physics This course is advertised in multiple departments. Please see the Overview tab for more details.

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Michaelmas 2026

Applications open
Sept. 3, 2025
Application deadline
May 14, 2026
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2026

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Course Funding Deadline
Jan. 7, 2026
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 15, 2025

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas , Lent and Easter .


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