BSc (Hons) Mathematical and Computer Studies
When can you start this course? |
UCAS code |
Fees |
Course length |
Entry requirements
 |
You can also start this course in January |
Why choose this course?
- It's a modern vocational course which combines mathematics with computing and information systems allowing you to tailor your study programme to suit your own interests and needs
- It's been approved by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA)*
- You'll study in our modern well-equipped computing facilities - take the video tour at www.derby.ac.uk/computing/tour
- The optional placement year provides you with valuable work experience
- Our friendly and supportive lecturers make learning fun!
About the course
You'll learn the tools and techniques of mathematics, statistics and computing and how to apply them to the solution of real life problems.
Employer links are integral to your learning experience. Industrial support for the Mathematics Group Project enables you to experience working as a professional mathematician on a real complex problem specified by industrial managers. These links provide opportunities for discussion and feedback both on this module and other aspects of your programme of study.
You'll have the option of taking a placement year in your third year, or of continuing straight to the final year. Our students often say that the placement year is the most rewarding part of the course. It's an opportunity to work alongside professionals in your chosen subject area and see at first hand how the knowledge and skills you've learnt are put in to practice. Our Placements Officer will help you find a position and support you throughout the placement period.
As more and more employers are now asking for work experience, a CV with placement experience on it will really stand out when you're applying for your first job as a graduate.
A significant component of the final year is a project undertaken as Independent Study. This is a key element of your course and provides a unique opportunity to develop your own particular personal interests and abilities in a fashion that suits you. You'll be guided throughout your project by an Independent Study Supervisor.
If you are working part time while studying - in an appropriate environment such as the application of analytical skills to business or engineering problems, you are encouraged to gain recognition of this learning by including up to three Negotiated Modules in to your programme of study. Contact the Programme Leader for more information.
Find out more about what subjects and modules you'll be studying...
At the beginning of each year, you'll choose a programme of study from the mathematics, computing and information systems subject areas.
You can select optional modules to tailor your degree to your individual needs and interests.
During your final year all taught modules studied must be chosen from those in the Mathematics and the Computing subject areas with at least two modules chosen from each of these disciplines. Your choice will depend on your own personal interest and areas of specialism highlighted during your second year and/or your work placement.
Modules
Stage 1
Modules you have to take (core):
 Basic Mathematical Techniques What will I cover in this module?
The module provides opportunity for you to gain an understanding of the basic mathematical techniques of algebra and calculus. It is intended to provide a sound foundation for further study of mathematics for any learner without A2 level mathematics (or equivalent). It is an appropriate module for any learner undertaking undergraduate study in a subject which demands a high level of numeracy. Computer-based assessment is both formative and summative.
On completion of this module you will be able to:
1. Demonstrate the ability to carry out algebraic and calculus processes
2. Apply algebra and calculus to mathematically based problems
You'll cover:
• Algebra: the rules of algebra and their application. The use of computer based algebraic packages, for example DERIVE.
• Series: Arithmetic, and Geometric series and their sums; sum of series of integer terms, use of sigma notation.
• Properties of exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions, and their graphs, using a computer-based investigation.
• Calculus: differentiation and integration; first and second derivatives of basic functions; product rule, quotient rule, and function of a function; integration by substitution, partial fractions and by parts.
• Application of differentiation to motion and turning points; application of integration.
• Solution of simple first order differential equations with applications.
How much work will I need to do each week?
Lectures
18 hours
Tutorials/Practicals &nbs
p; &nbs
p; &nbs
p; 18 hours
Directed/Independent study 114 hours
Total
150 hours
You will be introduced to the basic algebraic and calculus techniques through a series of lectures. The lecture programme will be supported by tutorials, practicals, and a programme of directed study which will include formative computer-based assessment. How will I be assessed?
100% Coursework Reading list
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Computational Mathematics What will I cover in this module?
This module will help you to develop an understanding of the fundamental concepts of discrete mathematics and develop modelling skills, e.g. using sets, relations, logic and matrices Practical application of concepts and methods applicable to areas of computing such as graphics, software engineering, formal methods, logic programming and databases are included. Computer-based assessment is both formative and summative.
Upon successful completion of the module you will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of discrete mathematics and those concepts and methods which are highly applicable to computing.
You'll cover:
• Numbers and operations. Set theory. Functions and Data types.
• Structures - sequences, graphs, trees.
• Introduction to matrices and vectors, matrix transformations.
• Propositional logic, Predicate logic, Relational algebra.
• Basic algebra and calculus.
How much work will I need to do each week?
The lecture programme will be strongly supported by tutorial sessions and formative computer-based assessment. Tutorials will provide opportunity to practise and develop skills and develop understanding of concepts introduced during the lectures.
Lectures &nbs
p; &nbs
p; &nbs
p; &nbs
p; 18 hours
Tutorials/Practicals &nbs
p; &nbs
p; 18 hours
Directed/Independent study 114 hours
Total
150 hours
How will I be assessed?
100% Coursework Reading list
• Discrete Mathematics for Computing. Rod Haggerty; Addison Wesley. 2002
• The Essence of Discrete Mathematics, Neville Dean; Prentice Hall.1997.
• The Essence of Logic, John Kelly, Prentice Hall 1997.
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Introduction to Databases What will I cover in this module?
This module will introduce you to the fundamental concepts underpinning modern database systems used in industry. Students will gain mastery of standard techniques to identify system requirements and design a simple, yet realistic, database system. This module acts as a foundation to further modules in information systems and databases, and is assessed entirely through coursework.
On completion of this module, you should be able to:
1. Understand and apply fundamental database modelling techniques.
2. Develop a sound understanding of the basic concepts of database technology.
3. Be able to design and implement a realistic database system using entity modelling and normalisation techniques.
You'll cover:
• Database fundamentals
• Applications of database systems
• Entity-Relationship modelling
• Normalisation
• Physical design
• Use of database management software
How much work will I need to do each week?
Laboratory sessions will allow you to gain experience in designing databases, using database management software, and implementing databases based on their own and others' designs.
Lectures: &nb
sp; &nb
sp; 12 hours
Labs: &
nbsp; &
nbsp; &
nbsp; 12 hours
Directed Study: 126 hours
Total &
nbsp; &
nbsp; &
nbsp; 150 hours
How will I be assessed?
100% Coursework Reading list
• Rolland, F., 1997, The Essence of Databases, Prentice Hall
• Date, C. J., 2003, An Introduction to Database Systems, 8th ed., Pearson Education
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Programming Principles What will I cover in this module?
This module introduces you to the fundamental principles, concepts, and practice of computer programming, and develops the skills needed to design, implement, and test computer programs. No prior computer programming experience is assumed, and all practical work is done using an industry-standard programming language and software development environment.
On completion of the module, you should be able to:
1. Design, develop, and test small scale computer programs.
You'll cover:
• Introduction to programming
• The development environment
• Statements, sequence, selection, and iteration
• Types, values and variables
• Input and output
• Source code documentation
• Testing and debugging
• Expressions and operators
• Arrays
• Functions, parameters and arguments
• Built-in functions
• User-defined functions
• Files
How much work will I need to do each week?
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, and clinics, with strong emphasis on using hands-on and tutorial-based sessions to explore the indicative content.
Lectures:
12 hours
Lab-based practicals: &
nbsp; 24 hours
Student managed learning: 114 hours
Total:
150 hours
How will I be assessed?
100% Coursework Reading list
• Gaddis, 2009, Starting Out With Python, Pearson Publishers
• Chegwidden and Gaddis, 2005, Starting Out with C#, Scott Jones Publishers
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
And choose two options from:
| Algorithms and Data Structures What will I cover in this module?
The module will analyse the definition and design of common algorithms, particularly those with associated
data structures. It will also investigate their implementation and evaluate their performance and complexity.
As such, the module will require to implement and/or use these algorithms in programs which they will write
in an appropriate high-level language. The module has both a large practical component (which will be assessed
by means of coursework) and a theoretical component (which will be assessed by an in class test).
On completion of the module, you will be able to:
1. Define and implement common algorithms and data-types in an appropriate programming language
2. Analyse problems and select optimal algorithms for programming scenarios.
You'll cover:
• Memory and its use
• Representing the efficiency of algorithms
• Recursion
• Static data structures such as arrays and records/structs
• Dynamic Allocation strategies
• Analysis of data structures such as lists, stacks, queues, and trees, with the common algorithms associated with them
• Analysis of the performance and efficiency of algorithms for common tasks such as sorting and searching.
What modules do I need to have taken already?
 How much work will I need to do each week?
Lectures             Â
     12 hours
Tutorials             Â
     24 hours
Private/directed study  114 hours
Total               Â
        150 hours
How will I be assessed?
70% Coursework, 30% Exam Reading list
• Savitch W (2009) Absolute C++ (4rd Ed), Addison Wesley
• Horowitz C, Sahni & Anderson-Freed, (1993) Fundamentals of Data Structures in C., Freeman
• Drozdek A (2004) Data Structures and Algorithms in C++, Brooks/Cole
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Application Development What will I cover in this module?
This module builds on the concepts introduced in Programming Principles, and aims to cover the theory and practical techniques needed to develop usable, robust, and reliable end-user software applications.
On completion of the module, you should be able to:
1. Design, develop, and test computer applications of moderate complexity, using a professional approach.
You'll cover:
- The software development life cycle
- Debugging tools and approaches
- Graphical user interfaces
- Object oriented programming including classes, methods, inheritance, interfaces
- Introduction to containers
- Class libraries and library routines
- User defined types
How much work will I need to do each week?
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and clinics, with emphasis on the practical aspects of developing robust, reliable computer programs. Lectures:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
           12 hours
Lab-based Tutorials:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 12 hours
Clinics  :           Â
             12 hours
Student managed learning:Â Â Â 114 hours
Total:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
              150 hours How will I be assessed?
100% Coursework How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Client-Side Web Development What will I cover in this module?
This module is an introduction to the concepts involved in the design and implementation of client-side scripting for web pages. It will provide a further understanding of fundamental programming constructs and enable you to create client-side solutions to real-world problems in a web-based setting.
Upon successful completion of the module the you will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental programming constructs when used in client-side scripting environments.
2. Design and implement client-side solutions to problems in a web-based setting.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the use and application of objects in web programming.
You'll cover:
• Internet Animation
• Programming constructs: Names, Variables and Literals, Event Handlers, Operators, Types (Conditional, loops), Functions, Arrays
• Objects and Methods
• Objects in the context of the document object model (DOM)
• Cookies
• Introductory principles of program design
• Testing and debugging.
• Embedding JavaScript within HTML documents.
• Use of client-side versus server-side programming.
• Browser support.
• Java Applet life cycle How much work will I need to do each week?
This module will be presented using lectures and practical sessions.
Lectures: &nb
sp; &nb
sp; &nb
sp; 12 hours
Practicals: &
nbsp; &
nbsp; 24 hours
Directed/Private study 114 hours
Total &
nbsp; &
nbsp; &
nbsp; 150 hours
How will I be assessed?
100% Coursework Reading list
- Deitel P.J., and Deitel H. M. (2008), Internet & World Wide Web How to Program, Prentice Hall, 978-0-13-175242-9
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Computer Architecture What will I cover in this module?
This module provides a general overview of the terminology, systems and concepts that underpin information technology. It intends to provide you with the foundational skills and understanding required for further study in any area of computing.
Upon successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding and ability to explain the impact of computer technology on day-to-day life
2. Demonstrate an understanding of basic computing concepts, theory and history.
You'll cover:
• Number systems
• Data representation
• Boolean logic
• History of the computer, particularly the PC, covering the major changes in hardware and software
• The main components of a computer system and how they interact
• The CPU including the fetch-execute cycle, machine code and assembly language
• High level languages, including an introduction to compilers, interpreters and virtual machines
• Introduction to operating systems
• Introduction to file systems
• Introduction to computer networks
• Fundamental data structures
• Input/Output mechanisms.
How much work will I need to do each week?
Lectures &nbs
p;
12 hours
Tutorials &nb
sp; &nb
sp; &nb
sp; &nb
sp; 12 hours
Clinics
;
;
;
; 12 hours
Directed/Private Study 114 hours
Total &
nbsp; &
nbsp; &
nbsp; &
nbsp; 150 hours
The lectures will be supported by clinics during which you can obtain one-on-one assistance as needed for exercises set for the week.
How will I be assessed?
50% Coursework, 50% Exam
A report for a computer-related journal describing the impact that technological advances in computer technology have had on a particular area of interest. The report will be approximately 1500 words and should contain appropriate citations and references.
1 hour closed book in class examination (which could be computer based) Reading list
• Date & Lewis, (2007), Computer Science Illuminated, Jones and Bartlett Publishers
• Charles Petzold, (2000), CODE: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software, Microsoft Press
• Null and Lobur, (2006), The Essentials of Computer Organization and Architecture, Jones and Bartlett Publishers
• Stallings, (2000), Computer Organization and Architecture, Prentice Hall
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Computer Network Principles What will I cover in this module?
This module aims to give you a clear understanding of fundamental concepts related to computer networks. You will be introduced to the ISO/OSI and TCP/IP models. The module will introduce you to basic design and communicational issues related to local area networks, wide area networks and the internet.
On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:
1. Demonstrate a clear understanding of the issues involved in designing a simple network.
2. Show an understanding of technical issues involved with communication over a local area network, wide area network and the Internet.
You'll cover:
• Introduction to the ISO/OSI and TCP/IP models
• Basics of Communication
• Topologies
• Interface Devices.
• Wide Area Networks
• Security and networks How much work will I need to do each week?
You will be taught through a combination of lectures and laboratories. Lectures:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
     12 hour
Tutorials:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 12 hours
Laboratories & Clinics: Â 12 hours
Directed Learning:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 112 hours
Total:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
        150 hours
How will I be assessed?
80% Coursework, 20% Exam Reading list
- Kurose, J.F. and Ross, K. W. (2008) Computer Networking a Top-Down Approach, 4th ed., Pearson Education, Inc.
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Data Analysis for Business Decisions What will I cover in this module?
Module description This module provides you with important key skills for business; the ability to use spreadsheet software to present, analyse and interpret data within a specific context. The module content is based on traditional quantitative analysis but is mainly focused on looking for patterns in data, the interpretation of quantitative analysis results and the presentation of data using spreadsheets. Spreadsheets are available on most desktops in most businesses around the world and you will be expected to work with company data in this form when employed. The skill base developed gives students the confidence to prepare an analysis of real data to inform a business decision and to further explore quantitative analysis at a later stage. These skills prepare you for the analysis required in other modules within their programmes. Learning outcomes 1. Demonstrate knowledge of relevant methods for data analysis in business and management.
2. Demonstrate an ability to discuss and use the results of data analysis for a business decision and adequately communicate the results in a written format. Areas of study • Use of tables and charts and measures of central tendency, calculation, meaning and interpretation.
• Use of measures of dispersion, calculation, meaning and interpretation
• Basic rules of probability and using decision trees for business problems.
• Sampling techniques and sampling distribution of means.
• Standard Normal distribution, using Z scores, creating for confidence intervals for estimating means and proportions and their use in business decision making.
• Simple parametric tests and use in business decision making.
• Measures of association including non-parametric tests, simple bivariate correlation and regression. How will I be assessed?
100% coursework Coursework 1 - 30% - Computer based test
Coursework 2 - 70% - A group based written report of no more than 2,500 words based on the analysis of real data within Excel relating to a business decision Reading list
Core text Business Statistics: (2008) Data Analysis in Business and Management, Instructor: Melanie Powell. Module code 4bm006, McGraw Hill, Irvine, ISBN is 9780390933171. How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Digital Forensic Investigation What will I cover in this module?
This module provides you with a basic underpinning on the concepts involved with the investigation of a computer system. The module looks at the theoretical background in terms of the configuration of computer systems and the methods deployed in investigating these.
Upon successful completion of the module you will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the core concepts relating to the structure of computer systems.
2. Formulate and present technical arguments pertaining to the investigation of a computer system in a coherent and clear manner You'll cover: • Incident management and response, crime scene management (from a computing perspective), recording of evidence.
• Mobile Forensics, problems of mobile forensics, cell site analysis
• Hard drive structures and management
• Anti Forensics: Encryption, data hiding
• Recovering allocated and unallocated data
• Live forensics
• Email Forensics
• Incident response. Incident response procedures,
• Data collection from popular operating systems such as Windows, UNIX and LINUX. Obtaining system logs and other important configuration files.
• Handling volatile data
How much work will I need to do each week?
Lectures             Â
      24 hours
Tutorials/Practicals      12 hours
Directed/Private Study  114 hours
Total               Â
         150 hours The lecture programme will be supported by tutorials during which you will be able to apply the theory and material developed in the lectures to a range of problems drawn from a wide range of application areas.
How will I be assessed?
50% Coursework, 50% Exam How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Games Design What will I cover in this module?
This module is designed to give the you an understanding of the thoughts and processes that are involved within the field of Computer Games Design. The module will look at the process from initial idea to the final game and review different methodologies used within the industry. You will look at what design processes go into making an entertaining game.
On successful completion of the module the you'll be able to:
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of the Game Design Process
- Create a complete game design.
You'll cover:
- Review of existing game designs
- Game Theory
- Design Documents
- Design Treatment
- Phases of game development
- Principals of Game Design
- Games design theory, playtesting, reinforcement
- Story development - thesis/antithesis/synthesis
- World creation and Level Design and scripting
- Design methodologies
- Design Tools
- Ethics in game design - cultural significance.
How will I be assessed?
100% Coursework How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| LAN Switching What will I cover in this module?
This module helps develop an in-depth understanding of how switches operate and are implemented in the LAN environment from small to large networks. Campus network design and Layer 3 switching concepts are also covered.
On completion of this module, you should be able to:
1. Understand and evaluate switching and its related technologies
2. Design, implement and managing switching-based networks You'll cover: • Switching Concepts and LAN design:Ethernet/802.3 LAN technology, LAN Switching, the basic operation of switch, LAN design
• Switches: Starting the switch, LAN switches and hierarchical network design, switch configuration
• Spanning tree protocol: redundant topology overview, spanning tree overview, advanced functions of stp, RSTP
• Virtual LANs: VLAN operation, VLAN type, VLAN frame identification, VLAN configuration, trunking, VLAN trunking protocol, inter-VLAN routing
• Basic Wireless LAN technologies
How much work will I need to do each week?
You will be taught through a combination of lectures and laboratories. Lectures:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 12 hours
Laboratories:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 24 hours
Clinics:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
  12 hours
Directed Learning:Â Â 102 hours
Total:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
  150 hours  How will I be assessed?
100% Coursework Reading list
• LAN Switching and Wireless, CCNA Exploration Companion Guide (2008), by Wayne Lewis, ISBN10: 1-58713-207-9, Cisco Press
• LAN Switching and Wireless, CCNA Exploration Labs and Study Guide (2008), by Allan Johnson, ISBN10: 1587132028, Cisco Press
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Network Fundamentals What will I cover in this module?
This module aims to give you a clear understanding of fundamental concepts related to computer networks. You will be introduced to the ISO/OSI and TCP/IP models. It introduces you to basic design and communicational issues related to local area networks, wide area networks and the internet.
On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:
1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the function and importance of the ISO/OSI and TCP/IP models.
2. Critically evaluate the issues involved in designing a simple network.
3. Critically evaluate technical issues involved with communication over a network and the Internet.
You'll cover:
• Introduction to the ISO/OSI and TCP/IP models. An examination of the functions of each layer of the model, applicability in communication between two devices, the function and purpose of protocol data units.
• Basics of Communication. How communication takes place, electronics, binary patterns, framing.
• Topologies. Introduction to topologies and topological design, the process of communication in these topologies, connection options. Media contention and broadcast domains. Structured cabling systems.
• Network Devices. Function of routers, switches, repeaters etc., selection of appropriate devices for given scenarios. Placement of appropriate devices within topologies.
• Issues in performance of local area networks and wide area networks. Circuit/packet switching.
How much work will I need to do each week?
Lecture
;
;
; 24 hours
Practical &nb
sp; &nb
sp; &nb
sp; 12 hours
Directed Study &
nbsp; 1
14 hours
Total &
nbsp; &
nbsp; &
nbsp; 150hours
How will I be assessed?
70% Coursework, 30% Exam Reading list
• Network Fundamentals CCNA Exploration Companion Guide, Dye, Cisco Press (2008)
• Network Fundamentals CCNA Exploration Labs and Study Guide, Rufi, Cisco Press (2008)
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
| Systems Analysis What will I cover in this module?
This module will introduce you to the fundamental concepts underpinning the analysis of Information systems. The role and purpose of systems analysis will be explained and you will gain mastery of some standard techniques to identify system requirements ready for progress to the design stage
At the end of this module, you should be able to:
1. Be able to apply some standard system analysis techniques.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical concepts behind systems analysis.
You'll cover:
• Systems concepts. Role of the analyst, communication, interviewing, knowledge elicitation.
• Systems Development Life Cycle, Information and Data.
• A variety of current systems analysis modelling techniques and methodologies
• Entity Relationship Modelling
How much work will I need to do each week?
You will have tutorials in which both the theoretical and practical concepts, presented in lectures will be reinforced. Tutorial sessions will allow you to gain experience in using the modelling techniques using case studies
Lectures &nbs
p; &nbs
p; 12 hours
Tutorials: &n
bsp; &n
bsp; 24 hours
Directed learning: 114 hours
Total:
150 hours
How will I be assessed?
50% Coursework, 50% Exam Reading list
• Lejk, M. & Deeks, D. 2002, An Introduction to Systems Analysis Techniques (2nd Edition), Prentice Hall., ISBN: 0-201-79713-5
• Curtis, G & Cobham,D 2004 Business Information Systems: Analysis, Design and Practice (5th Edition), Prentice Hall
• Skidmore, S & Eva, M., 2004 Introducing Systems Development Palgrave Macmillan ISBN 9787-0- 333-97369-1
How many credits is it worth?
15 |
Stage 2
Modules you have to take (core):
| Introduction to Management Science What will I cover in this module?
Module description: The module aims to introduce and demonstrate the usefulness of a variety of management science techniques and to develop skills at applying and interpreting solutions to these techniques in appropriate situations. Problem solving/case study approaches will ensure relevance to appropriate application areas such as accounting and business. Assessment is by coursework and examination. Learning outcomes: On completion of this module learners will be able to: 1. Demonstrate through investigation and appropriate presentation the ability to apply simple management science techniques to simulate practical business situations.
2. Provide solutions to problems likely to be encountered by an operations manager (or similar.) Areas of study: • Production control, scheduling, networks, critical path analysis, GANTT charts.
• Decision making techniques, decision trees, expectation, rollback analyses, payoff tables and utilities.
• Introduction to statistical forecasting: time series analysis.
• Introduction to Linear Programming.
• Managerial economics, fixed and variable costs, contribution and revenue, revenue maximising. How will I be assessed?
50% coursework / 50% exam Coursework: The assignment will be based on a case study requiring investigation and application of management science techniques Exam: A three-hour, unseen, closed book examination. How many credits is it worth?
15 |
And you will choose six options from:
Modules and content may change from year to year so this list is just a guide. We will confirm the exact modules that are on offer before you start your course.
Module diagram
Your career
- Our maths graduates get great jobs. Some have gone on to work with organisations such as the London Stock Exchange, Microsoft and IBM.
- Watch graduate interviews and see where your degree could take you.
What our students say
"The course is really interesting with a wide selection of maths, from statistics to pure and computer mathematics. Staff are always friendly and approachable - even if busy! Derby is a friendly, safe city to live in and I would recommend it to anyone."
Alastair Williams
Work placements
There is an optional work placement as part of the course content. Work placements are ideal opportunities for you to apply your knowledge in a business environment, and receive an income for your work. Placement experience will help you with your dissertation, and in the past our students have been offered employment at their placement company upon graduation.
Anything else?
Our strong industry links give a practical emphasis to your studies, and you'll also be invited to events run by the East Midlands branch of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications.
*It meets the educational requirements of the Chartered Mathematician designation, awarded by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications, when it is followed by subsequent training and experience in employment to obtain equivalent competences to those specified by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) for taught masters degrees.
External examiners make sure what we are teaching is up to date and relevant on our maths degrees.
Here are some of their comments for the academic year 2008-9:
'The programmes are very well designed and it is very pleasing to see both new modules and existing modules updated to reflect current practical themes in the subject area. The subject team should be commended for the thought and effort they put into programme design.'
'The programme is coherent and relevant and reflects the benchmark statements for Mathematics, Statistics and Operational Research. I found the subject material, particularly in modules concerned with Mathematical Modelling and Current Issues in Mathematics, to be innovative and well chosen to stimulate the interest and enthusiasm of the students.'
'A wide range of assessment methods are used across all years, which is entirely appropriate given the nature of the material within the programmes.'
'The excellent use of real industrial problems, particularly in some coursework assignments. [Examination papers] were all appropriate given the module level and content. All assignments included excellent detailed descriptions for students explaining what was required to achieve specific grades.'
Start dates
If you're from the UK or EU you can apply to study this course in:
- September 2010 (part time only, if available)
- January 2011
- September 2011
See a list of courses we are still taking applications for in September 2010.
If you're from a country outside the EU you can apply to study this course full time in:
- September 2010
- January 2011
- September 2011
UCAS code
GG41
Fees *
UK/EU students
- Full time: £3,290 (per year)
- Part time: £270 per single module (you usually take 24 of these modules in total)
International students
- Full time: £8,500 (per year)
*These fees apply if you're starting this course between September 2010 and August 2011. We recommend you check fee details with us though, as they can change. Costs can increase each year and there may be extra costs eg for exams, trips or special modules.
Course length
Full time: 3 years or 4 year (sandwich)
Part time: 6 years (flexible)
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are usually 240 UCAS points from A levels or equivalent qualifications, ...
Our entry requirements are usually 240 UCAS points from A levels or equivalent qualifications, such as a BTEC National Diploma, Scottish Highers etc. You'll need A level Maths or equivalent. If you've completed an Access/Foundation course, we also accept these qualifications.
The UCAS tariff points are a guide - we'll also consider all the information that you've included in your application. We'll also want to see that you're enthusiastic and motivated to take this course and that you have the potential to benefit from coming to university.
Standard entry requirements
More about staff, careers, the department...
