Course summary

This course is great preparation for a career in research, whether you want to work on solutions to abstract mathematics problems or apply your problem solving skills to challenges in industry. There is a wide variety of options to choose from across pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and probability and statistics. In your final year, you’ll complete a major research project. We have a small but focused number of modules in the first year, that cover all the essentials you’ll need for the rest of your degree. You can develop programming skills using Python and R, which can be applied to lots of jobs that involve data, and learn to use the typesetting software LaTeX, which mathematicians and statisticians use to present their work. In your second year, you’ll continue to build a powerful toolbox of mathematical techniques, which you can apply to increasingly complex problems. There is less compulsory maths and more options, so as well as calculus and algebra, you can study topics including differential equations, the mechanics of motion in fluids and solids, statistical modelling and computer simulations. Some module options include more project work. This gives you the chance to put your mathematics skills into practice in different contexts and scenarios that you might encounter when you start work after graduation. A module on careers development gives you the chance to find out about different career paths, learn about potential employers, write an impressive CV and sell yourself at job interviews. By your third year, you’ll have the skills, knowledge and experience to explore many different areas of mathematics. We’ll give you lots of optional modules to choose from, so you can study the topics that are most useful to the career path you want to take or that you enjoy the most. You’ll have a similar range of options to choose from in your final year. You’ll also spend a third of your time working on your own research project. You’ll choose a topic in an area of mathematics that interests you, and work closely with one of our staff who is an expert in the field. You’ll write up your findings and give a presentation about what you’ve learned.