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Mathematics

Courses in Mathematics

Joint degree combinations allow you to engage with two subject areas, opening up different opportunities as you develop complementary skills sets and experience in two areas.

Why study Mathematics?

You’ll study core mathematical concepts and problem-solving, developing your analytical skills and ability for logical thinking. You’ll gain the capacity to analyse and solve problems in many different contexts. The attributes and insights you’ll gain can be applied to a variety of roles including finance and statistics, across a range of professions and industries.

What will I learn?

You’ll become familiar with fundamental mathematical concepts and apply this knowledge in a variety of contexts. You’ll also gain experience in problem solving using various techniques and appropriate software packages. In addition to core mathematical skills you will also develop advanced skills in analysis, teamwork, communication, report writing and presentation skills.

During the first two years, the emphasis is on developing essential knowledge and techniques in mathematics. In year 1, you will cover key mathematical and modelling skills and an introduction to the fundamentals of logic and mathematical structures. In year 2, you will study vector and multivariable calculus, numerical methods and linear mathematics.

The final year provides opportunities to study topics more deeply or to apply mathematics in new areas.

Placements

During your second year, you will have the opportunity to undertake a placement in an area of specific personal interest, which a member of staff will help you to find.

Who will teach me?

Staff research activity informs the content and development of our courses. Our staff have experience in applying mathematical modelling techniques in diverse contexts including acoustics (loudspeaker design), bubble formation in fluids (damage to underwater structures) and the human spine (understanding medical conditions).

Career options

Successful mathematical graduates who can apply their analytical and logical abilities to practical purposes are equipped for roles in a wide range of industries including finance, logistics and operations management, project management and statistics, in the private or public sector. You may also progress to further study for roles including accountancy or teacher training.

Key people

"For me, mathematics is about understanding patterns, connections and structures. Mathematicians use the power of pure reason both to explore abstract mathematical worlds and to apply their ideas to real world situations. It is especially pleasing when abstract mathematics finds an unexpected application; a classic example of this is the use of number theory in the encryption of data that is now used as a standard for transmitting information securely over the internet. Educationally, mathematics is fantastic for developing precise reasoning skills which is one reason why mathematics graduates are sought after. Personally, it is a real joy when students share an appreciation of the beauty and elegance of the subject."

John Taylor, School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics

Module in focus

Discrete Mathematics and Algebra

This module explores many of the fundamental ideas that form the language of modern mathematics, including the notion of proof that distinguishes mathematics from other disciplines.

You’ll begin by exploring the symmetries of shapes. This leads naturally to the idea of a mathematical structure – called a group – that unifies many diverse examples in, for example, arithmetic and geometry. This leads to the ideas of sets, logic, functions and relations. Vectors in two and three dimensions are considered both geometrically and algebraically.

Finally you’ll examine groups again, this time applying the knowledge gained in the module.

Facilities

Sophisticated computer software is used for modelling and computer algebra.

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