Bachelor Mathematics
The Basis of Exact Science
Mathematics is the language in which our era’s technical and scientific knowledge is formulated. It is also an indispensable tool in computer science, insurance and the economy. However, its actual core is pure mathematics: the intensive study of abstract structures and geometrical objects, and the discovery and description of the laws that govern them.
Educational objective and career profile
The principal aim of a degree in Mathematics is a broad education in the fundamentals of mathematics that allows graduates to independently acquire further knowledge for their future professional work.
Mathematicians work in many different fields. They conduct research and teach at universities, universities of applied sciences and secondary schools. They work for insurance companies and, increasingly, in banks, industry, software development, planning and business optimisation, or as statisticians in the public sector.
A distinct talent for abstract thought is always essential for studying and working with mathematics.
Bachelor's degree programme (180 credits)
The study of mathematics at ETH Zurich differs from degree courses at other institutions of higher education because it dovetails closely with physics. The first year of study is nearly identical in the Mathematics and Physics degree programmes and, after the first year, it is possible to switch in either direction.
The first two years of the Bachelor’s degree programme cover the fundamentals of mathematics, physics and computer science and advanced knowledge in various mathematical disciplines. From the third year, there are no longer any compulsory courses. Instead, students can choose from a wide range of core subjects, electives and seminars.
Largely common first year for undergraduates in Mathematics and Physics:
Analysis, Linear Algebra, Numerical Analysis, Physics, Computer Science
Specialised courses from the second year onwards:
Algebra, Topology, Probability and Statistics, etc.
Core and elective courses from the fields of Pure Mathematics and Applied Mathematics
Seminars, Bachelor’s thesis
For detailed information go to the pages in German Mathematik
Master's degree programme (90 credits)
Students on the Master’s degree programme decide whether to study Mathematics or Applied Mathematics.
In Mathematics, core subjects and electives can be selected from the fields of pure or applied mathematics.
In Applied Mathematics, some courses must be taken from applied fields (e.g. financial and insurance mathematics).
In addition, one application area must be selected (e.g. theoretical physics). Students decide only at the end of the programme which degree title they will apply for.
Core and elective courses, seminars, semester papers Master’s thesis (5 months)
Master’s degree either in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics
Follow this link for all consecutive and specialised Master's degree programmes