Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, and Real-world Systems (MARS)

MSci Hons

  • UCAS code G1I7
  • Entry year 2026
  • A level requirements A*AA
  • Duration Full time 4 years
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We welcome applications from the United States of America

We've put together information and resources to guide your application journey as a student from the United States of America.

Overview

Top reasons to study with us

  • 10

    10th for Mathematics

    The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide (2026)

  • 11

    11th for Mathematics

    The Complete University Guide (2026)

  • 100% of our research impact rated outstanding (REF2021)

Mathematics powers Artificial Intelligence (AI) and underpins the systems that shape our world. From models that predict climate change and track diseases, to social media algorithms and generative AI like ChatGPT, mathematics is at the heart of every major innovation.Graduate talent is needed to drive these advancements, and this degree provides you with the analytical, problem-solving and reasoning skills to make an impact in a wide range of sectors.

You will build a strong mathematical foundation, just as you would in a traditional maths degree, whilst also gaining theoretical understanding and hands-on experience of AI, machine learning and real-world modelling.
Working on projects inspired by government and industry, you’ll tackle challenges like predicting floods, stopping infection spread and preventing cyber attacks.

With a degree in Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-world Systems (MARS), you will have the tools to forge a successful career in technologies that will dictate our futures.

What to expect

Our four-year MSci Hons Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-world Systems (MARS) degree begins by building upon your understanding of mathematical methods and concepts through a mix of lectures and workshops. You will explore a wide range of topics, from differential equations, multivariate calculus for AI and data science, probability and statistics to logic, proofs and theorems. In addition, you will study mathematical modelling and programming, learning the principles of scientific computing and gaining experience working with the R and Python programming languages. You will also learn to apply one of the most fundamental tools in modern AI research, the deep neural network, to real world datasets.

As you progress into Years 2 and 3, you will delve deeper into a range of specialist optional modules and core concepts in linear algebra and probability. You will learn to translate contemporary issues into mathematical problems, and using multivariate calculus and mathematical analysis, you will gain an understanding of the algorithms that have revolutionised machine learning and AI. These tools, along with statistical methods, will help you investigate more advanced mathematical models and their solutions.

To further develop your skills there is the opportunity to apply your knowledge to real-world problems through exciting, industry-inspired projects, where you’ll work both independently and as part of a team.

Master’s-level training

In Year 4, you will be able to widen your knowledge and skills by selecting from a pool of Master's-level modules.These advanced modules consolidate knowledge gained throughout the programme while extending your skills to a higher level and introducing you to open problems at the forefront of research and industry.

You will also complete a major industry-linked research project, guided by your interests and supervised by an active researcher. This will cement your learning, provide you with valuable experience and position you for a career in industry or academia.

Personal development

You will develop valuable transferrable skills such as data analysis, problem-solving, analytical thinking and quantitative reasoning, all of which make you highly desirable to future employers. These skills are honed by working in collaboration with fellow students, ruminating on theories and testing them out, delivering presentations and communicating your research results.

Build your portfolio

Throughout your degree you will develop a portfolio showcasing how you’ve applied mathematical, machine learning and AI techniques to real-world problems. With support from your academic tutor, the document will evolve as you learn how to highlight your skillset, providing you with a powerful tool to show employers.

A supportive community

To help you transition from A level to degree-level study, the School of Mathematical Sciences hosts weekly workshops, problem-solving classes, and one-to-one sessions. If you wish to engage with mathematics beyond that, the MathSoc hosts a weekly Maths Café that includes access to academic support and a casual space to chat with other students.

3 things our students want you to know:

  • Lancaster has received £13million from Research England to become a leader in the mathematics underpinning AI, so you’ll be part of a community delivering solutions to problems in health, engineering, cyber security and the environment. This means that what you learn is always evolving and keeping pace with innovation
  • Our computing and maths societies put on industry talks, guest lectures and career development opportunities
  • Mathematical sciences at Lancaster are incredibly collaborative. You will bounce ideas around with experts, or with students from all years. Our thriving postgraduate research student community has been right where we are, asking the same questions, and there’s even opportunities to talk with them and learn from them

Careers

As a Lancaster graduate, you will enjoy excellent employment prospects. Your MSci Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-world Systems (MARS), along with your problem-solving skills, analytical abilities and AI expertise, will make you highly desirable to employers in almost every industry and sector. The types of roles you may progress into include:

• Data scientist
• Data analyst
• Risk analyst
• Climate modeller
• Software engineer
• Scientific programmer
• Actuary
• Machine learning engineer
• Mathematical engineer

Opportunities may arise in sectors such as:

• AI, software development and software engineering
• Finance, insurance and investment banking
• Engineering
• Environment and climate science
• Healthcare and biomedical research
• Government
• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Robotics and automation
• Cyber security

Your transferable skills will also allow you to expand into roles in marketing, management, teaching and consultancy. Or you may choose to continue your studies and pursue research at doctoral level.

Entry requirements

These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. This section will tell you whether you need qualifications in specific subjects, what our English language requirements are, and if there are any extra requirements such as attending an interview or submitting a portfolio.

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Help from our Admissions team

If you are thinking of applying to Lancaster and you would like to ask us a question, complete our enquiry form and one of the team will get back to you.

We also have more details on our website about:

International foundation programmes

Delivered in partnership with INTO Lancaster University, our one-year tailored foundation pathways are designed to improve your subject knowledge and English language skills to the level required by a range of Lancaster University degrees. Visit the INTO Lancaster University website for more details and a list of eligible degrees you can progress onto.

Contextual admissions

Contextual admissions could help you gain a place at university if you have faced additional challenges during your education which might have impacted your results. Visit our contextual admissions page to find out about how this works and whether you could be eligible.

Course structure

Detailed module information for this undergraduate programme will follow shortly. However, if you have any questions please contact the department.

Fees and funding

Home undergraduate fees for 2026/27 are subject to UK Government approval. They will be confirmed later in the year.

Our annual tuition fee is set for a 12-month session, starting at the beginning of each academic year.

Our Undergraduate Tuition Fees for 2026/27 are:

Home International
TBC n/a

Fees and funding information

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Scholarships and bursaries

You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.

You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status:

Unfortunately no scholarships and bursaries match your selection, but there are more listed on scholarships and bursaries page.

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We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.

Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries.

Important information

The information on this site relates primarily to the stated entry year and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.

The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.

More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information.

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We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. Find out more about our  Charter and student policies.

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