There are a range of different Maths degrees offered at our top five universities, while it is important to choose the correct degree to suit your future plans. So, which university offers which degree combinations? Let's take a look.
University of Cambridge
When studying Maths at Cambridge students are thought to be studying with the crème de la crème of the Mathematics world. Indeed Cambridge is ranked number one in the UK as the best university to study for a Maths degree. So what type of Maths courses does Cambridge offer? Options are very varied here especially once students have finished their first years study.
Year one sees students study for one of two options. The first option is Pure and Applied Mathematics. Students who want to stick with Maths will select this option. Option two is Mathematics with Physics for students who might like to study Physics once they have completed their first year. Students don't have to make a firm decision as to which course they wish to follow as they can change their mind after the first year and switch to the alternative course.
Year one students take eight subjects concerning the fundamentals of Maths. Those who have chosen Maths with Physics will replace two subjects with part 1A Physics with Natural Sciences. In year two there are seventeen options to consider. Optional computer projects are also a consideration at this point. Year three offers more choices again, while those wishing to progress to year four, which is optional, will need a certain level of success and ability gained from the three previous years. More in depth detail is available from the Cambridge website.
University of Oxford
The University of Oxford offers four different Maths Degrees for students to study namely
- Mathematics
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Mathematics and Philosophy
- Mathematics and Statistics
All these courses are recognised to be some of the best in the UK nee the world therefore students need to consider which one is best suited for them taking into consideration the line of work they intend to go into.
Mathematics
This Applied Mathematics course uses Maths to explain occurrences that happen in the world. Such topics as exploring quantum theory, exploring relativity or looking at how the stock markets work are just some of the topics that will have Maths students enthralled. This course encourages the mathematical brain so that students can learn to construct theorems and proofs, while using logic to discuss and so solve problems.
Mathematics and Computer Science
This is a joint degree combing Maths appreciation with the art of understanding Computer Science. Mathematics is fundamental to computing, while computing these days is fundamental to maths making the two co-exist comfortably. This course concentrates on areas of the two subjects that are applicable to one another pushing forward the bridge between theory and practice. A better understanding of Maths will be gained by computer scientists making them familiar with areas where computers may solve difficult problems. It also demonstrates to mathematicians where computers are useful plus where their use is limited. This is a two year course where in the first year students will receive a good basic grounding in both skills, while the second year students may join in industry sponsored practical design.
Mathematics and Philosophy
Many do not think that these two subjects obviously go together but they have more in common than first thought. Logic is a major component of both Maths and Philosophy and this bridges the gap between the two making one pretty useful for the other. The Philosophy Department at Oxford is one of the largest in the world with five hundred graduates a year choosing to study the subject. Philosophy is compatible with many other subjects including of course Maths.
Mathematics and Statistics
Statistics are everywhere as piles and piles of data are produced all over the world every hour of every day by those who are looking at any number of subjects. This data needs to be compiled and analysed therefore state of the art statistical methods need to be applied in order to produce accurate conclusions from the data produced.
Advanced mathematical ideas in conjunction with up to date computational techniques need to be used by people who know how to apply them correctly. A Maths and Statistics degree studied at Oxford will arm students with the skills they need to do well in this field. Oxford is leading in the field of statistical research in population genetics and evolution that will unlock the secrets of human genetic variation and disease. Applied probability and network analysis also feature.
University of Warwick
Warwick University offers many different Maths degrees either solely covering maths or combining maths with another subject. Along with the Pure Mathematics degrees students may wish to consider a combined degree such as
Mathematics and Business Studies
Modules included on this course feature topics from the Warwick Business School and the Warwick Mathematics Institute. Students will learn from world leading experts at two of the most prestigious schools in the world. Students will study Pure Mathematics and Applied Mathematics used in problem solving aspects of Biology, Computing, Climate Science and Finance. Further modules include Management, Finance, Marketing, Industrial Relations and Entrepreneurship. Please visit the Warwick website to ascertain if this is the course for you.
Mathematics and Economics
This course is best suited to students who are interested in Pure Mathematics with a view to applying their skills to the world of Economics. Students will study economic theory and quantitative economics by way of five modules per term.
Mathematics and Physics
Students will be taught Maths and Physics jointly by two departments that have a superb reputation worldwide. Both departments are renowned for their research and development qualities, while the courses will teach students how to think both like a physicist and a mathematician. Both areas study a range of subjects that are familiar to both albeit they approach the subjects from different angles. These two subjects connect to and complement one another, while the course duration is three years.
Alternative Courses
- Mathematics and Philosophy
- Mathematics and Statistics
Durham University
Durham University offers two types of Maths degree which are Mathematics or Mathematics with European Studies. The Maths degrees include
- Full Time Three Year Course
- Full Time Four Year Course
Mathematics with European Studies
The Mathematics with European Studies degree is a four year programme that involves two years studying in Durham, one year studying in a European country then a fourth year back in Durham. In the first year students will study four compulsory Maths modules along with two optional modules.
Year two involves studying two compulsory modules plus four optional modules while looking to specialise in specific areas. The third year which is spent studying abroad will take the same path as the Durham course except students will be studying in an EU country. Choices of universities abroad include
- Berlin
- Granada
- Bochum
- Mons
- Bologna
- Strasburg
- Fribourg
- Duisberg
- Chambery
Year four students are back in Durham in order to complete the degree to its conclusion.
University of Bath
Those wishing to study for a Maths degree at Bath University have a choice of four different degrees. These degrees are
- Maths and Physics
- Mathematical Sciences
- Computer Science and Maths
- Economics and Maths
Maths and Physics
Maths and Physics degrees here include Maths and Physics four year degree, Maths and Physics with one year abroad five year degree, Maths and Physics three year degree and Maths and Physics four years with placement. Here students will master the generality of logic, proof from Mathematics as well as the principles of physics, while being taught by award winning lecturers.
Mathematical Sciences
There are a number of options to choose from for students who wish to study for a Mathematical Sciences degree at Bath. Three and four year courses are available with courses combining a study year abroad or an industrial placement. Physical, social and management sciences are the major content of these courses, while a high proportion of graduates gain employment within six months of completing one of these degrees.
Computer Science and Maths
The Computer Sciences and Maths degrees available here include a three year course, a four year course, a four year course with placement, a five year course, a five year course with placement and a five year course with a study year abroad. Computer Sciences and Maths study here covers the foundations of computation, multimedia and graphics, software and systems engineering, human/computer interaction and intelligent systems.
Economics and Maths
Economics and Maths degree courses offer two options namely a three year course and a four year course with placement. Students can expect to receive a firm grounding in economic theory along with mathematical skills that concentrate on encouraging analytical, quantitative and conceptual skills. Study programmes are modular with lectures, classes and seminars featuring heavily.
