Why study mathematics

Reasons for a Master in Mathematics at Vrije Universiteit

• Join a World-Class Mathematics Department that Drives Innovation and Societal Impact

  Our mathematics department is recognized both nationally and internationally for its pioneering research and educational excellence. We shape the future of science, technology, and industry:

  • Dynamical Systems Excellence: As the largest group of its kind in the Netherlands, our Dynamical Systems team is at the forefront of exploring everything from neurodynamics to climate systems, and the deep mathematical principles of theoretical physics. We are leading cutting-edge research that spans multiple scientific disciplines, pushing boundaries in both theory and real-world applications.
  • Biomedical Mathematics: Unique in the Netherlands, our Biomedical Mathematics program offers a one-of-a-kind curriculum that integrates Mathematical Statistics, Data Analysis, and Dynamical Systems. Students and researchers here tackle complex biomedical challenges with mathematical innovation, preparing graduates for impactful careers in healthcare, data science, and beyond.
  • Analytics, Optimization, and Statistics: Our groups in Analytics and Optimization, Probability, and Statistics are dedicated to solving the pressing issues of today’s world. Leveraging machine learning, optimization, and mathematical modeling, our researchers collaborate with top organizations like AUMC, TNO, ORTEC, and Deloitte, delivering cutting-edge solutions in healthcare, network systems, and business optimization.
  • National Leadership and Collaborations: We are proud to lead the organization of nationwide seminars in collaboration with universities across the Netherlands, including the Lowlands Dynamics Seminar, the Dutch Differential Topology and Geometry Seminar, and the Van Dantzig Statistics Seminar. These seminars foster a vibrant intellectual community and keep our department at the center of mathematical innovation.

• You are an active member of our dynamic and diverse research groups

  As a master's student, you are active part of our six research groups:

  - Algebra and Number Theory

  - Analytics and Optimization 

  - Biomathematics

  - Dynamical Systems

  - Geometry and Topology

  - Probability and Statistics

  These groups are highly collaborative. Whether it's the General Mathematics Colloquium or the Nutshell Seminar (run by PhD students), you'll be at the center of our vibrant and diverse research community composed by researchers from all over the world.

  We value your individuality and offer personalized guidance so you can dive into what excites you most. Engage with PhD students and postdocs in reading groups, attend weekly seminars with experts, and work closely with your supervisor on your thesis. If applied mathematics is your thing, why not take your thesis further with an internship at one of our partner companies?

• A teaching curriculum bridging the gap between theory and applications

  At our department we believe in a holistic view of mathematics. Our researchers weave together pure and applied topics and excel in fields like business analytics, big data, forensic statistics, mathematical chemistry, mathematical physics, systems biology, neuroscience, and complex systems. This is deeply reflected in our teaching curriculum with courses such as Advanced Machine Learning, Non-linear Dynamical Systems, Forensic Probability and Statistics, Applied Stochastic Modeling, Topological Data Analysis, Financial Mathematics, Coding and Cryptography, and many more. You can consult the Study Guide for the complete list of courses.

• A beautiful, centrally located campus in Amsterdam

  Amsterdam ranks very high among the best student cities in Europe, with top rank for cultural diversity - and top rank in the Netherlands. Our beautiful campus is in the modern district of Amsterdam Zuidas, the economic heart of the country. It is just a five-minute walk from the train station of Amsterdam Zuid, which is one of the main nodes of the metro and railway system in the Netherlands. This makes it extremely easy to commute daily inside and outside Amsterdam. There are plenty of opportunities to earn extra money by serving as teaching assistant for courses in the bachelor’s program.

• Easy access to Mastermath

  During the entire Master's programme, besides local courses, you can choose from 50+ courses in Mastermath – a nationwide programme offered jointly by nine Dutch universities.  Over 50% of these courses are offered in Amsterdam. The variety of choice is endless and you get in touch with students and lecturers from all over the country.