Faculty of Engineering Science
Leuven, Belgium
Master of Science in Mathematical Engineering
Mathematical models and techniques
Mathematics is the hidden technology behind nearly all aspects of modern life. Without mathematical
tools, there would be no internet search engines, no weather forecast, no digital photography,
no security in banking. Mathematical models and techniques play an important role in automatic pilot technologies, the design of quieter and more fuel-efficient cars and aeroplanes,
the optimisation of wind farms, financial products, the development of drugs, medical scanners,
and much, much more. At first sight, these applications have little in common, but they all process
a large amount of data or are based on complex models that require large computer resources
and advanced algorithms. Mathematics is becoming critical in many applications because of
increasing model complexity and higher demands from customers and the environment.
DURATION
2 years (full-time), 120 ECTS
APPLICATION DEADLINE
1 March (for non-EEA citizens)
1 June (for EEA citizens)
ACADEMIC CALENDAR
1st semester: 3rd week
of September > end of
January (exams in January)
2nd semester: 2nd week
of February > July (exams
in June)
www.kuleuven.be/academiccalendar
“The Master of Science in Mathematical Engineering was the perfect
background for my work at BASF.
As an automation engineer, I optimise
and control processes using mathematical techniques. Handling massive
amounts of data – also called “big
data” – and optimising processes
are my daily business. As an automation security expert, I protect the
BASF plants worldwide against hacking
and virus attacks. Data mining allows
us to track suspicious activities on
our networks. Strong encryption
algorithms help us protect our
intellectual data. As a chief engineer,
I coach people and I work in a team
to develop business cases and
to implement and follow up
new projects.”
(David Ariens, automation engineer
at BASF Antwerp)
Mathematical tools for engineers
The Master of Science in Mathematical Engineering at KU Leuven offers a broad and profound
knowledge of mathematical tools for engineers. You will have the opportunity to develop your
skills to design and use novel mathematical engineering techniques and conduct your own
research under the guidance of top experts well known in the international research community.
Programme
PROGRAMME
120 ECTS
COURSE
ECTS
CORE PROGRAMME (COMPULSORY)
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39
System Identification and Modelling
Numerical Simulation of Differential Equations
Methods and Algorithms for Advanced Process Control
Optimisation
Nonlinear Systems
Project Mathematical Engineering
Scientific Software
Case Studies
MASTER’S THESIS (2ND PROGRAMME STAGE)
24
ELECTIVE COURSES (CHOOSE FROM THE FOLLOWING TRACKS)
30
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Industrial Process Control
Data Mining
Scientific Computing and Simulation
Cryptography
Statistics
Visualization
GENERAL INTEREST COURSES
FREE ELECTIVE AND OTHER COURSES
9-12
18-15
Students complete their programme up to 120 ECTS
For detailed descriptions of the courses and for the course timetable, please consult
www.kuleuven.be/ma/mmael/programme.
Application procedure
KU Leuven uses an online application system. You can download and submit your application
form via www.kuleuven.be/application.
Students with a Flemish degree can consult www.kuleuven.be/studentenadministratie.
KU Leuven. Inspiring the outstanding.
KU LEUVEN
FACULTY OF ENGINEERING SCIENCE
Campus Arenberg 1 box 2200
3001 LEUVEN, Belgium
www.kuleuven.be/english
This master’s programme is designed for holders of a bachelor’s degree with a basic training
in mathematics and engineering sciences who are interested in mastering an engineering
approach that bridges mathematical models and design methods in industry and services.
By the end of the programme you will have acquired expertise in modelling, data analysis,
and numerical simulation to:
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develop algorithms and software for complex simulations and optimisation,
use these techniques for industrial and medical applications as well as services,
design a virtual prototype of a system or a product,
independently solve a problem in a research laboratory or a business context.
Admission requirements
To be eligible for Master of Mathematical Engineering you must have obtained an academic
bachelor’s degree in the field of engineering or a bachelor or master in mathematics or physics.
You also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency.
Good knowledge of the English language is essential. Unless you are of Anglo-Saxon origin,
you will be asked to submit a TOEFL or IELTS certificate. If you have already completed an
English-language academic programme at an Anglo-Saxon university, your degree will be
considered sufficient proof of your English proficiency.
Discover KU Leuven
Founded in 1425, the University
of Leuven (KU Leuven) has been
a centre of learning for almost
six centuries. Today, it is Belgium’s
largest and highest-ranked university
as well as one of the oldest and most
renowned universities in Europe.
As a leading European research
university and co-founder of the
League of European Research
Universities (LERU), KU Leuven offers
a wide variety of programmes in English
supported by high-quality interdisciplinary research. Within the field of
science, engineering, and technology,
KU Leuven offers profiles organized in
five faculties: Science, Engineering
Science, Bioscience Engineering,
Engineering Technology, and
Architecture. Boasting an outstanding
central location in the heart of Europe,
KU Leuven offers a truly international
experience, high-quality education,
world-class research and cutting-edge
innovation.
Programme admission: www.kuleuven.be/ma/mmael
General admission: www.kuleuven.be/admissions
Tuition fees
The tuition fee for the 2016 -2017 academic year is € 890 for EEA students and € 6000 for
non-EEA students. The tuition fees for future academic years can be slightly higher as a
result of indexation. Please consult the website for the most recent information:
www.kuleuven.be/tuitionfees.
Opportunities for student exchange
The Erasmus programme gives you the opportunity to complete one or two semesters at
a participating European university. Student exchange agreements are also in place with a
number of Japanese and American universities.
We encourage you to learn more about industrial and research internships abroad by contacting
our Internship Coordinator. These studying abroad opportunities and internships are complemented by the short summer courses offered via the Board of European Students of Technology
(BEST) network.
Career perspectives
Many small, dynamic, young companies are active in the field of mathematical engineering.
But even big players in materials, chemistry, automotive, aerospace, biomedical industries,
as well as finance, are increasingly interested in mathematical engineering thanks to the everincreasing complexity of mathematical models and more stringent environmental standards and
comfort expectations. Many of our young graduates start their careers in the R&D departments
of high-tech companies or matriculate into one of the university’s PhD programmes.
Contact:
www.kuleuven.be/ma/mmael
KU Leuven is a founding member of
the League of European Research Universities
Karl Meerbergen, Programme Director
[email protected], tel. + 32 16 32 79 59
v.u.: Isabelle Van Geet, Minderbroedersstraat 8, 3000 Leuven
Your profile
Last update: September 2016. Changes may have been made since the printing of this fact sheet. Please see www.kuleuven.be/internationalprogrammes for any updates.
Master of Science in Mathematical Engineering