Mathematics - your questions answered
In the below video, Senior Lecturer, Dr Nicholas Korpelainen, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Mathematics at the University of Derby. You can also watch exclusive subject content by signing up to Derby on Demand.
A mathematics degree that opens doors
With its focus on the real-world applications of mathematics, this degree is challenging, rewarding and opens doors to a wide range of career choices, from business and finance to engineering and teaching.
While mathematics is one of the oldest subjects to study, it underpins so many of the world's new and emerging fields — from big data and artificial intelligence, to clean energy or personalised medicine. Mathematics has also played a vital role in the fight against Covid-19. From data models that predict infection numbers to calculating 'R': mathematics has been central to the science that has guided governments.
If you are excited by the idea of using mathematics to make a positive impact on the world, this BSc (Hons) degree could be for you. It will develop your knowledge and understanding of key concepts in mathematics, statistics and operational research, and encourage you to explore how mathematics can be applied to solve modern problems, particularly in business. Practical projects, including those set by external organisations, are a key feature of this course. You will also build vital transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, digital skills, teamwork and networking.
About the pathways
When you apply for this degree, you will need to choose a particular pathway — either the broader BSc (Hons) Mathematics or the BSc (Hons) Mathematics (Computing).
BSc (Hons) Mathematics
On this pathway, you'll dive deeper into both theoretical and applicable areas of mathematics such as mathematical modelling, linear algebra and statistics. During your final year you will undertake a research-based independent study and get to explore an area of mathematics that particularly interests you. For instance, recent studies have focused on topics such as natural language processing for identifying online pharmacies, variations of n-dimensional noughts and crosses, and mathematical modelling of traffic flow.
This pathway is also accredited by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), which is a quality mark for mathematics degrees. It means that when you graduate from this degree, you will be accepted for associate membership of IMA, which is your first step towards becoming a Chartered Mathematician (C.Math). IMA membership brings a number of other career benefits, including access to networking events.
BSc (Hons) Mathematics (Computing)
This pathway is a compelling combination of mathematics, computing and information systems. You will have the chance to spend around one half of your study time on mathematics, and the other half on computing. We will introduce you to the topics of discrete and computational mathematics that support computing, such as set theory, logic and matrices. You will also learn the fundamental theories, concepts and practices of computer programming.
This will ensure you develop the skills you need to design, implement and test computer-robust and reliable programmes using the latest software, databases and programming languages. The computing aspect of the course encourages precise logical thinking and programming using mathematical principles.
During your final year you can choose to complete either a traditional research-based independent study, or a more practical project to create, test and evaluate an innovative solution in computing.
Meet professional mathematicians
Our links with industry will support your learning throughout. For example, in the year two module, Mathematics Group Project, you will experience what it's like to work as a professional mathematician on a real problem set by an employer.
You will also have other opportunities to meet and hear from leading industry figures, which will improve your understanding of professional issues and career options, as well as extending your network.
Spend an optional year in industry
We offer you the chance to take a year's work placement between years two and three of your course. Our students often say this is the most rewarding part of their course and it will certainly boost your employment prospects after graduation — increasingly, employers are looking for graduates with work experience.
Previous students have secured placements with prestigious companies such as IBM, Network Rail, Experian, Bosch, Pattonair, IQ Plus and Cable Detection.
There are also other opportunities to take up shorter internships and placements, and we'll encourage and support you to do this.
Study abroad
You can choose to study abroad for a semester or take a work placement overseas. We have partner universities in Romania, Turkey, Slovenia, Greece and elsewhere.
Link the learning to your job
If you are already working in an area closely linked to what you are studying, we encourage you to gain recognition for this experience. You can do this by including up to three 'negotiated modules' in your degree. A negotiated module is one that has been individually planned and structured by you, your tutor and your programme leader. As long as your work-based learning can be evidenced, there is the potential for it to be recognised, accredited and therefore count towards your BSc. Contact us to find out more.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
We use a variety of teaching methods, including:
- lectures, sometimes delivered by visiting speakers
- tutorials
- individual and group projects
- weekly drop-in clinics for one-to-one support
How you are assessed
You will be assessed through a mixture of exams and coursework, including:
- computational simulations
- online tests
- oral presentations
- portfolio work
- written reports
Personal academic tutoring
Your personal academic tutor will work with you to help you get the most out of your time at university. Having someone to talk to about your academic progress, your university experience and your professional aspirations is hugely valuable. We want you to feel challenged in your studies, stretched but confident to achieve your academic and professional goals.
Find out more about personal academic tutoring
September 2021 typical entry requirements
| Requirement | What we're looking for | | UCAS points | 120 |
| Specific requirements at A-level | At least a grade C in Maths at A-level (or equivalent qualification) |
| Specific requirements at GCSE | GCSE Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above) or equivalent qualification |
| IELTS | 6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area) |
| Interview / Audition | N/A |
| Portfolio | N/A |
Alternative entry qualifications:
- BTEC - DDM
- Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 15 Merit: 24 Pass: 6. Must include passes in compulsory Level 3 subjects
We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.
Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.
2021/22 Fees (August 2021 - July 2022)
| | Full-time | Part-time |
|---|
| UK | £9,250 per year | £1,155 per 20 credit module |
| International/EU | N/A | N/A |
Further information about our fees and support you may be entitled to.
After graduating from our BSc (Hons) Mathematics or BSc (Hons) Mathematics (Computing), you will have advanced analytical and numerical skills and also be great at problem-solving and logical thinking. These abilities are valued by employers and could lead on to careers in:
- finance and banking
- data science and data analysis
- software engineering
- mathematical research
- innovation in teaching and digital learning technologies
If you graduate from the Computing pathway, you'll find you are suited to other jobs too, such as computer programmer, network technician, systems architect or systems engineer.
Some of our mathematics graduates have gone on to work for organisations like the London Stock Exchange, the Police, the Civil Service, Microsoft and IBM.
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
Contact us Contact us Teaching hours
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.
