BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Computer Science

UCAS code: GG41

Start date: September

Course length: Full time: three years, or four with optional placement year. Also available part time.

Campus: Kedleston Road site, Derby Campus

This course is available to international students

You will learn the tools and techniques of mathematics, statistics and computing and how to apply these to solving real-life problems.

Our links with employers will support your learning. Industry support for the Mathematics Group Project will allow you to experience working as a professional mathematician on a genuine problem as specified by industry managers. These links will provide opportunities for discussion and feedback, both on this module and with other aspects of your programme of study.

You will be introduced to the topics of discrete and computational mathematics that support computing, for example: set theory, logic and matrices. You will learn fundamental theories, concepts and the practice of computer programming, developing the skills you will need to design, implement and test, computer-robust and reliable programmes using modern mathematical software, such as Matlab and Excel. The computing aspect of the course will encourage precise logical thinking and programming using mathematical principles.

There will also be the option to take a placement year in your third year, or to continue straight to the final year. 

A significant component of the final year is a project undertaken as independent study. This will provide a unique opportunity to follow your personal interests. You will be guided throughout your project by an Independent Study Supervisor.

If you are working part time while studying in a relevant area such as the application of analytical skills to business or engineering problems, you are encouraged to gain recognition for this learning by including up to three negotiated modules in your programme of study. Contact the Programme Leader for more information.

Exemptions

Professsional accreditation

Our mathematics courses are approved by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), which means that you will be accepted for associate membership following graduation. This is the first step to becoming a Chartered Mathematician (C.Math). You will also be invited to events run by the East Midlands branch of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications.

Stage one

You will study these modules:

• Patterns of Problem Solving
• Analysis and Algebra
• Programming I
• Programming II
• Subjects in Computer Science
• Calculus

Stage two

You will study these modules:

• Networks and Security
• Databases
• Mathematical Group Project
• Mathematical Methods
• Application Development
• Operational Research

Stage three - Optional placement year

Final stage

You will study this module:

• Research Methods  and Independent Studies in Mathematics - double module

Three options from:

• Process Modelling
• Modelling with Differential Equations
• Mathematical Programming Techniques
• Optimisation Techniques  

And one option from:

• Cryptography and Coding
• Systems Programming

Our entry requirements are usually 260 UCAS points, of which at least 220 will be from your core A2s (full A levels) or equivalent qualifications such as BTEC Diploma, International Baccalaureate, Scottish Highers etc.

You'll need A level Maths or equivalent.

We'll accept up to 40 points towards the total from level 3 qualifications such as AS levels (where those AS levels are not taken on to A2 level), the Extended Project or Music qualifications.

We don't accept points from Key Skills Level 3. If you have any questions about what is or isn't accepted, please contact our Admissions team.

We also accept the Access to HE Diploma.

Your points at level 3 will be in addition to 5 GCSEs at grade C or equivalent level 2 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.

General undergraduate entry requirements

Fees for 2013/14

This is a classroom based course.

UK/EU students

• Full time: £7,700 (each year)
• £965 per module (you usually take 18 of these modules in total)

International students

• Full time: £9,945 (per year)

*These fees apply if you're starting this course between September 2013 and August 2014. We recommend you check fee details with us though, as they can change. Costs can increase each year.

Work placements

There is the option to take a work placement in your third year as part of the course content.

Work placements are ideal opportunities for you to apply your knowledge in a business environment, and to receive an income for your work. Our students often say that the placement year is the most rewarding part of the course. It is an opportunity to work with professionals in your chosen subject area and to see at first hand how the knowledge and skills you have learnt can be put into practice.

Our Placements Officer will help you to find a position and will support you throughout the placement period. As more and more employers are now asking for work experience, a CV showing a placement will really stand out when you are applying for your first job having graduated.

Placement experience will also help you with your dissertation, and in the past our students have been offered employment at their placement company after graduating.

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.

"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 and safe city to live in and I would recommend it to anyone."

Alastair Williams