Mathematics contains a profusion of different kinds of ideas leading to the discovery of new geometric universes, new areas of functions, new algebraic structures, all of which are linked to one another by very strong links which, overall, create great simplicity, richness and  beauty.

In the research focus, the programme combines general training in the key areas of basic mathematics with more advanced training in one of the Department’s research areas: functional analysis, differential equations, variation calculus, the geometric theory of measurement, algebraic groups, category theory, the theory of integrable systems and its links with complex algebraic geometry, noncommutative geometry, algebraic topology and knot theory.
This training leads to the acquisition of skills such as abstraction, analysis and modelling of complex situations, the sense of precision and rigour in reasoning, self-assessment and ability to communicate, including in English. These skills can be put to good use in many different professions. 

In the teaching focus, the programme combined general training for secondary school teachers with specific training in mathematics, highlighting the connection between theory and  practice ; there is also the possibility of additional training in mathematics or teaching another scientific subject. These additional training courses expand the range of skills for future teachers.

The Master in Mathematics at UCL is jointly organized with a similar programme at the Facultés Universitaires Notre-dame de la Paix (FUNDP) in Namur. Both the overall structure of the programme as well as students’ progression are basically the same at both universities. However, the training activities are grouped in specific special subjects at each university.

The Department would like to encourage future researchers to establish contact with other research teams in neighbouring universities. Exchanges are also designed to provide additional training for certain areas of research.
Students doing either focus will have the opportunity to do an Erasmus, Mercator or other kind of exchange, lasting one semester. For the teaching focus, the exchange must take place in the second semester of the first year. For the research focus, it musts take place in the second semester of the first year or during the second year.