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Course details

Study options

Full-time: , Part-time: †

UK/EU fee

£9,250 per year* (2020/21)

International fee

£14,045 per year (2020/21)

UCAS points

120* (September 2020 entry)

UCAS code

Y002

Course level

Undergraduate

Qualification

Joint Honours

Start date

September

Location

Markeaton Street, Derby Campus

What is Joint Honours?

A Joint Honours degree gives you the opportunity to study two subjects as one degree. This type of degree will broaden your skill set and enhance your career prospects.

You can combine any two subjects as long as they’re in different zones, find out what you can combine this subject with.

Course description

Mathematical skills are invaluable in many professions today. Taking Mathematics as part of a Joint Honours degree will set you apart as a versatile graduate, capable of applying your knowledge to real-world problems.

Mathematics has been ranked in the Top 30 in the Guardian University Guide 2019
Combine Mathematics with another subject to reflect your interests and ambitions – anything from Accounting to English, Economics to Sport and Exercise Studies
Develop transferable skills in problem-solving, communication and IT
Explore the use of mathematics within the modern world of business, including working on projects set by industry
Be inspired by the exciting projects undertaken by our staff – such as the ALICE experiment, on which we are collaborating with leading organisations at CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research
Enjoy excellent career prospects – we are ranked 15^th highest among all UK universities and 12^th for English institutions, with 96% of graduates in work or further study within six months of completing their degree (HESA 2016)

If you would like a powerful mix of skills to advance your career, a Joint Honours degree featuring Mathematics could be an excellent route for you.

Broaden your career scope

Joint Honours is the perfect choice if you do not want to specialise in just one area: it may be that you enjoy two of your A-level subjects equally and want to continue studying both. This type of degree enables you to keep your career options open and stand out from the crowd as a multi-skilled graduate.

You can study Mathematics as either a joint or major element of your degree, building a course which is tailor-made for you. Our students have combined Mathematics with subjects ranging from Accounting and Business Management to History and Architectural Design.

Skills to take you far

The Mathematics Joint Honours pathways equip you with knowledge and understanding of key concepts in both mathematics and operational research. In particular, you will explore the use of mathematics within the modern world of business.

You will develop skills in analytical problem-solving, communication and IT, working both independently and as a member of a team. Our friendly and supportive 'drop-in' mathematics clinics are a valuable source of help and guidance.

Employer partnerships

We have strong industry links which means that you can work with locally-based international companies, applying your knowledge to practical real-life situations.

What you will study

Example modules are shown below, the modules available as a Joint Honours student will be dependent on the subject that you combine with. In your first year, modules will be defined for you, and will be dependent on your subject combination to ensure you have the best fit. In your second and third years, module availability and the number of modules you are required to take will depend on whether you choose this subject as a major, joint or minor.

Year 1Year 1 Year 2Year 2 Year 3Year 3

Back to Module List

Code: 4MA500

Analysis and Algebra

The module is designed for students already familiar with mathematical topics studied at Level 3. It extends students’ knowledge and understanding of concepts significant to the further study of mathematics as a specialist subject. It will develop a more rigorous understanding of concepts associated with algebra, calculus and discrete mathematics. This module will facilitate future development of modelling skills and the application of mathematical methods in many different areas.

20 Credits

optional

Exam

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 4MA501

Calculus

The module is designed for students already familiar with mathematical topics studied at Level 3. This module provides an understanding of the basic mathematical techniques in calculus to facilitate access to the study of further modules in the subject area of mathematics, statistics, mechanics and operational research.

20 Credits

optional

Exam

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 4MA502

Mathematical Software

The module is designed to give the learner an introduction to the use of mathematical software tools which will enhance their studies. Learners will study a range of mathematical methods associated with matrices and numerical analysis. A variety of problems will be investigated using relevant mathematical software tools. Students will gain key generic skills to assist with their further studies in mathematics generally.

20 Credits

optional

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 4MA504

Patterns of Problem Solving

The module provides a general introduction to problem solving and the basic philosophy which will enable learners to apply their mathematical knowledge to problem solving. It will develop personal and team-working skills and highlight the importance of communicating mathematics in both written and oral form. Learners will develop their reflective skills and professional skills, gaining recognition of the benefits with respect to their academic progress and subsequent lifelong learning.

20 Credits

optional

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 5MA500

Linear Algebra

This module builds on the mathematical techniques and concepts introduced in Level 4 modules, particularly matrices from Mathematical Software and vectors (from Physical Modelling). Standard mathematical topics in linear algebra are introduced in readiness for potential application and use in modules at Stage 3. The mathematics studied in this module provides the context for application within a wide range of mathematical tools.

20 Credits

optional

Exam

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 5MA501

Mathematical Methods

This module builds on the mathematical techniques covered in Analysis and Algebra and Calculus and other modules studied at Level 4. It extends the students' knowledge of a variety of analytical techniques used in applied mathematics, in readiness for potential application and use in modules at Stage 3. The mathematics studied in this module enables learners to initiate and consolidate the study of mathematics elsewhere on their programme.

20 Credits

optional

Exam

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 5MA502

Mathematical Modelling

This module aims to broaden the knowledge base of learners with regard to the study and application of selected topics from calculus, matrices and numerical methods comparing continuous and discrete approaches to problem solving. It develops further the analytic and computational skills of the learners. Applications will be drawn from real-world problems, for example predator-prey systems and resonance in buildings. The importance of error analysis in determining the accuracy of solutions will be emphasised, and MATLAB skills will be developed.

20 Credits

optional

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 5MA503

Mathematic Group Project

This module provides learners with the opportunity to develop the ability to investigate, plan and implement solutions to complex problems arising in business/industry. It provides a practical vehicle for the implementation of mathematical, statistical and computing techniques and promotes the awareness of management issues, such as the need to work to time constraints, effective communication and the organisation of team working.

20 Credits

optional

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 5MA505

Operational Research

The module enables learners to acquire both the ability and confidence to apply Operational Research techniques to a variety of problem areas of importance to business and industry. Emphasis will be placed on applications, for example, forecasting and quality control. The mathematical background will be developed to enhance learners’ understanding and enable the development of their modelling abilities. Commercial software packages will be employed both to enable the solution of realistic problems and to develop learners’ experiences of a real life approach to problem solving.

20 Credits

optional

Exam

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 6MA501

Modelling with Differential Equations

This module extends the learners' knowledge of analytical and numerical techniques for solving differential equations, into the solution of non-linear ordinary differential equations, sets of simultaneous ordinary differential equations and partial differential equations (PDEs). Investigating the use of differential equations in mathematical modelling.

20 Credits

optional

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 6MA502

Optimisation Techniques

The module builds on the optimisation and operational research skills gained at previous levels through a more in-depth study of optimisation and metaheuristics. Modern business decision-making can depend on the search for optimal solutions. Many problems that cannot be solved by classical methods can be investigated and solved using modern optimisation techniques. This module also develops the learners’ knowledge and understanding of optimisation techniques, which reflect current research activity.

20 Credits

optional

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 6MA504

Graph Theory and Applications

The module develops knowledge and understanding of topics in Graph Theory. This knowledge will be applied to obtain and analyse models of real-world scenarios based on essential theory and study of core topics/concepts. The syllabus has been chosen so as to provide students with a thorough grounding in the area and will reflect current research activity to give a solid basis for further study at a higher level.

20 Credits

optional

Exam

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 6MA505

Non-Linear Systems Dynamics

The overall aim of the module is to develop skills in the understanding and analysis of non-linear ordinary differential equations (O.D.Es). Such equations are relevant to a wide range of physical systems, and the subject area is an important one in the context of system modelling. The techniques studied are both quantitative and qualitative in nature, and the module constitutes a broad introduction to some of the fundamental types of non-linear equations and techniques for both their analysis and solution. The students will be exposed to a variety of theoretical and applicable aspects of topics through a combination of formal lectures and tutorial sessions. Any computational requirements will be met by existing software resources within the School as a means to facilitate problem solving and consolidate understanding of subject matter. Computing facilities support the use of spreadsheets and numerical/symbolic programming languages.

20 Credits

optional

Exam

Coursework

Back to Module List

Code: 6MA998

Research Methods and Independent Study in Mathematics

The module enables students to develop their research skills by way of a guided discovery process and to demonstrate their learning by undertaking a substantial and extended programme of work in an area of their particular interest.

40 Credits

optional

Coursework

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.

How you will learn

A particular characteristic of Mathematics at Derby is its established tradition of industry-informed teaching. A good example of this is the Mathematical Group Project, where a real problem is set by industry and you work in groups to come up with a range of solutions.

There is also a weekly drop-in clinic for students to receive one-to-one help and support from dedicated and understanding staff.

You will have the option to undertake a work placement during your study – an ideal opportunity for you to apply your knowledge in a business environment while receiving an income.

How you are assessed

You will be assessed through a mixture of coursework projects and examinations.

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

Entry requirements

September 2020 typical entry requirements

Requirement	What we're looking for
UCAS points	120* (up to 16 from AS-levels)
Specific requirements at A-level	At least a C in Maths at A-level (or equivalent qualification)
Specific requirements at GCSE	GCSE Maths and English Grade C/Grade 4 (or above) or equivalent qualification
Interview / Audition	N/A
Portfolio	N/A

Alternative entry qualifications:

BTEC - DDM
Access to HE Diploma - 60 credits: 45 at level 3 with a minimum of Dist: 15 Merit: 24 Pass: 6

For joint honours degree entry you will need to choose two subjects. The entry criteria here is for this subject only. Your offer will be based on the higher entry criteria from the two subjects you choose to do. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.

*The UCAS Points required for entry will depend on the subjects you choose to combine. The subject with the higher entry requirements will determine your offer.

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.

Fees and funding

2020/21 Fees

	Full-time	Part-time
UK/EU	£9,250 per year*	£1,155 per module*
International	£14,045 per year	N/A

* The fees stated above are for the 2019/20 academic year; fees for 2020/21 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. We will update this information as soon as it is available.

Further information about our fees and support you may be entitled to.

How to apply

UK/EU students

Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.

Part-time students should apply directly to the University.

Apply through UCAS Apply directly to the University

Guidance for EU students post-Brexit

International students

Apply through UCAS Apply directly to the University

Guidance for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree

Careers

A Joint Honours degree in Mathematics will open up a wide range of career opportunities to you. Our graduates have gone on to work in companies such as Network Rail, Microsoft, Rolls-Royce PLC and for the London Stock Exchange. Many go into teaching and lecturing, while others continue their studies through postgraduate research and masters courses.

Contact us

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.

† Additional information about your studies

Three years or four years with optional placement year

Target six years, four and a half years at 80 credits per year, maximum time allowed is eight years

You will typically study your two subjects equally at stage one, before choosing whether you want to major in one subject at stages two and three.

Download programme specification

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.