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Operational Research (MSc)

Award
Master of Science
Typical Offer
2:1 degree View full entry requirements
Duration
1 year
Course Type
Full-time
Campus
Highfield
Next course starts
September 2025
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Operational Research (MSc) startingSeptember 2025 for1 year

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About this courseEntry requirementsCourse structureModulesLearning and assessmentCareers and employabilityFees, costs and fundingHow to applyRelated courses

About this course

Develop the analytical skills for success in business and industry on this Operational Research MSc at the University of Southampton. You’ll work with multinational organisations on real-life case studies as you develop the knowledge to solve complex challenges. Prepare for a rewarding career in industry or research.

Operational Research is the application of scientific methods to the study of complex organisational problems.  

As an operational researcher, you’ll play an important role in business and industry, providing analytics and guidance to management teams. If you’re good at maths, enjoy problem-solving and have strong communication skills, this could be a rewarding area for you. 

On this UK master’s course you’ll learn the key skills and knowledge to provide effective solutions to organisational issues. 

You’ll study topics such as revenue management and forecasting, and learn techniques to improve organisational efficiency and productivity. 

You’ll work closely with industry throughout, and have the chance to develop your research skills in a commercial setting as you work on your dissertation over the summer. Our industrial liaison team will help you find a project that suits your skills and career plans. 

On this course you’ll learn: 

  • the mathematical, computational and communication skills needed for the practical application of operational research
  • an appreciation of related disciplines important in operational research
  • how to use operational research tools in a wide range of applications
  • research methods and current issues in operational research 

You’ll also benefit from regular seminars featuring guest speakers from a wide range of organisations.

Flexible study

If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:

  • a part-time master's - study the same course content over 2 or more years

Your modules and fees may vary if you choose a different study option.

Course lead

Professor Alain Zemkoho is your course leader. ReadProfessor Zemkoho’s profile to learn more about his work.

Course location

This course is based atHighfield.

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.

Entry requirements

You'll need a 2.1 degree in a quantitative subject which has a high maths content and you must have high grades in maths modules.

Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country. 

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:

IELTS score requirements

overall score
6.5
reading
6.0
writing
6.0
speaking
6.0
listening
6.0

If you do not meet the English language requirements through a test or qualification, you may be able to meet them by completing one of ourpre-sessional English programmes before your course starts.

If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing apre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Pre-masters

If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus.Learn more about the programmes available.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

Course structure

Your studies on the full-time course will last 12 months, from September to the following September. 

For the first 8 months (semesters 1 and 2) you'll focus on the taught part of your course.  

Each semester is made up of a combination of modules that everyone on the course takes, and modules that we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options. 

For the remainder of the course, you’ll work independently on your research project and dissertation. You’ll have one-to-one meetings with your supervisor during this time to discuss your progress. 

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Modules

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.Find out why, when and how we might make changes.

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

Year 1 modules

Youmust study the following modules :

Advanced Operational Research Methods

The module introduces more advanced operational research (OR) techniques that can be used to solve a wide range of problems in business and management including scheduling, networks, inventory control and queueing theory. It is split into two parts coveri...

Analytical Consultancy Skills

The first case study is run by a company over one day and focuses on the modelling of a problem that is of current interest. The second case study runs over four days and requires a complex problem to be solved. The techniques used to tackle the problems ...

Data Mining and Analytics

The module provides an introduction to data analytics and data mining. It will combine practical work using R and SQL with an introduction to some of the theory behind standard data mining techniques.

Introduction to Python

This module aims to teach students the fundamentals of writing structured computer programs, applicable using any high level programming language. However, students will be shown the special features of Python that makes this language especially useful fo...

OR Methods for Data Scientists

This module introduces key operational research (OR) techniques. It is split into two sections focusing on deterministic and stochastic OR techniques respectively. The methods taught on the module are useful tools for solving practical management and logi...

Statistical Methods for OR Modelling

The main aim of the module is to provide the students with necessary knowledge of statistics and stochastic processes to carry out simple statistical procedures and to be able to develop simulation and other models widely employed in OR. The model is spli...

Youmust also choose from the following modules :

Computational Machine Learning and Optimisation

This module will introduce you to some of the main approaches used for data analysis and machine learning. Students will gain knowledge and understanding of different computational machine learning methods, and gain skills in applying them to analyse dat...

Computer-based statistical modelling

The aim of the course is to provide a modern view of computer-based data analysis, from the statistical point of view. The course is intended for students with a solid basic background in probability, statistical methods, and computing, and who aim to bu...

Financial Portfolio Theory

The module aims to introduce the students to the basics of portfolio theory. Beginning with a summary of the reasons why both private investors and large institutional investors might wish to own share portfolios, the module progresses to consider how ris...

Flexible Regression

This module will introduce and develop flexible statistical modelling methods that allow for general and complex forms of data to be modelled, extending ideas already encountered in earlier modules on linear and/or generalised linear modelling. The two ma...

Forecasting

The module will introduce students to time series models and associated forecasting methods.

Integrated Logistics

Logistics studies the optimal planning and control of materials, information, and cash-flows through the processes of transformation, transportation, and storage within a system. Integrated logistics studies the management of the logistics across multipl...

Operational Research and Data Science Case Study 1

This module, alongside a second module Operational Research and Data Science Case Study 2, will form an option in Part II of MSc Operational Research, MSc Operational Research with Finance, and MSc Data and Decision Analytics. Both modules will have 30 CA...

Operational Research and Data Science Case Study 2

This module, alongside a second module Operational Research and Data Science Case Study 1, will form an option in Part II of MSc Operational Research, MSc Operational Research with Finance, and MSc Data and Decision Analytics. Both modules will have 30 CA...

Project

Students are allocated a project with an external organisation or on a topic devised by a member of staff in the Operational Research or Management Sciences group at the University of Southampton.

Project Management

The global and rapid growth of managing by projects in every sector, industry, and company type has led to the development of pan-sector theories and bodies of knowledge in project management. The specific nature of projects as temporary and unique activi...

Project Risk Management

Project risk management has evolved significantly over many years, but there are conflicting views about what constitutes best practice. This course provides an overview of best practice as outlined in the course text with a critical comparison of alterna...

Revenue Management

The module provides an introduction to the theory and practice of Revenue Management

Learning and assessment

Learning

The learning activities for this course include the following: 

  • lectures
  • classes and tutorials
  • coursework
  • guest speakers
  • computer workshops
  • individual and group projects
  • independent learning (studying on your own) 

Assessment

We’ll assess you through: 

  • coursework
  • a dissertation
  • essays
  • individual and group projects
  • written exams 

Dissertation

You’ll research and write a dissertation on a topic in operational research, working with an industry partner or a member of academic staff. 

The project is a chance for you to develop your research skills and show specialist knowledge of a particular area of operational research. 

You’ll have regular support meetings with your supervisor throughout the process. 

Academic Support

We'll assign you a personal academic tutor, and you'll have access to a senior tutor.

Careers and employability

Employability skills

This degree will allow you to develop and evidence subject-specific and targeted employability skills. This includes the required skill set for a range of future careers, further study, or starting your own business.

The skills you can expect to focus on and gain from this course include:

  • Research
  • Critical thinking
  • Self-management
  • Communication
  • Problem solving

The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.

Download skills overview
Women discussing in library tablet

Career pathways

Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:

Education,

Engineering,

Finance,

Banking,

Accountancy,

Government,

Insurance,

IT,

Business consultancy,

Marketing,

Market research,

Health,

Research,

Not-for-profits/charities.

Wider career opportunities:
  • Business analyst
  • Compliance officer
  • Academic researcher
  • Financial manager
  • Management consultant
  • Meteorologist
  • Quantity surveyor
  • Policy officer
  • Actuary
  • Accountant
See more
Example job titles of Southampton MSc Operational Research graduates*:
  • Data analyst
  • Data scientist
  • Consultant
  • Data engineer
  • Government analyst
  • Transport planner
  • Operational researcher
  • Revenue analyst
See more

Job prospects for MSc Operational Research graduates

£33k
Average professional salary
93%
In a skilled profession or further study
98%
Graduate employment rate
Source

*Example graduate job titles and job prospect statistics taken from The Graduate Outcomes Survey, which gathers information about the activities and perspectives of graduates 15 months after finishing their course.

Work experience opportunities

Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.

Careers services and support

We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes: 

  • work experience schemes
  • CV and interview skills and workshops
  • networking events
  • careers fairs attended by top employers
  • a wealth of volunteering opportunities
  • study abroad and summer school opportunities 

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter,Futureworlds, is open to every student.

Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.

More about careers support

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

  • UK students pay £9,250.
  • EU and international students pay £25,400.

Checkfees for other versions of this course.

Deposit

If you're an international student on a full-time course, we'll ask you to pay £2,000 of your tuition fees in advance, as a deposit.

Your offer letter will tell you when this should be paid and provide full terms and conditions.

Find out about exemptions, refunds and how to pay your deposit on ourtuition fees for overseas students page.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.

Find out how to pay your tuition fees.

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton, you could be eligible for a10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course.Find out if you're eligible.

Southampton Mathematics Postgraduate International Scholarship

A scholarship of £3,000 is available to international students studying for a postgraduate master’s in Mathematics.

Find out more about the Southampton Mathematics Postgraduate International Scholarship, including eligibility and conditions.

Other postgraduate funding options

A variety ofadditional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out aboutfunding you could get as an international student.

How to apply

  1. Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
  2. Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. .
  3. Search for the course you want to apply for.
  4. Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
  5. Pay the £50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions,check terms and conditions).
  6. Submit your application.

For further details of our admission process,read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications.

Application deadlines

UK students

The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time.

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

International students

The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 26 August 2025, midday UK time.

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

Application assessment fee

We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.

This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.

If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on ourterms and conditions page.

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

  • your knowledge of the subject area
  • why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
  • how you intend to use your qualification

References are not required for this programme.

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will aim to send you a decision 6 weeks after you have submitted your application. 

If we offer you a place, you will need to accept the offer within 30 working days. If you do not meet this deadline, we will offer your place to another applicant.

Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

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