AIMS offers an intensive graduate level course over 10 months leading to a master's-level Postgraduate Diploma in the Mathematical Sciences, formally accredited by the Universities of Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and the Western Cape, taught in association with the Faculty of Mathematics of the University of Cambridge, and the Division of Physical Sciences at the University of Oxford. The course seeks to provide both a broad overview of cutting edge sciences and strong mathematical and computing research skills. The course is unique worldwide, offering students exposure to a range of cutting edge scientific topics and allowing them to make an informed choice as to their future specialisation.The goal is to develop well-rounded scientists, with excellent problem-solving skills, capable of creative thinking and genuine innovation. There is a strong grounding in generally applicable mathematical and computing methods.
Faculties from the nearby Universities of the Western Cape, Cape Town and Stellenbosch have been intimately involved in developing the AIMS course, ensuring it is well integrated with local undergraduate and masters courses, and with local postgraduate research opportunities.World-leading scientists and educators have volunteered to teach at AIMS. Their participation ensures an education of the highest international quality.
The course begins annually in August with graduation taking place at the end of June the following year.The course consists of three semesters: the skills courses, the review courses and the essay phase. Courses included in previous years included Bio-informatics, Structural and Molecular Biology, Ecology and Conservation Science, Demographics and Disease Modelling, Computation, Information and Communication, Astronomy and Astrophysics, Fundamental Physics, Pure Mathematics, and Environmental and geophysical fluid mechanics.
Completing a course of such scope and depth in just one academic year is possible only if it is highly intensive, so students must come prepared to work hard. The residential nature of the Institute allows far greater contact time between lecturers and students than normally available in a University setting. Courses are student-centered but very demanding. As a rule, students study two subjects at a time every two or three weeks, with morning lectures and related afternoon problem solving and computing sessions. Additional tutorials and special lectures may be held in the evenings.
To apply for admission to the Diploma programme please go to the Apply section to complete and submit the required forms.
Lecturers can propose courses for the following academic year.
Information on the course curriculum can be found on the course page.