Mathematics with Professional Experience MMath

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

The first year modules introduce you to all the main areas of university-level Mathematics, consolidating and building on the material you will have learned at A level. The Mathematical Investigations module includes group work to tackle open-ended problems in mathematics under the supervision of a member of staff.

Core modules cover concepts and techniques that are widely used in many areas of mathematics, while optional modules give you the opportunity to learn about more specialised topics. Up to 30 credits of elective (free choice) modules can be taken, with at most 15 credits outside the disciplines of Engineering, Mathematics and Physics.

In the third year, a wide range of modules are available, including Mathematics: History and Culture. These, together with electives available in years 2 and 3, give you the opportunity to specialise in one area of mathematics, or to continue with a broad-based course. MMath and MSci students also have the option of studying in the USA, Canada, Australia or New Zealand for half of the third year. Progression to the third year of the MMath or MSci is conditional on a satisfactory performance in the second year.

An MMath Mathematics with Professional Experience programme is also available. On this programme you will undertake a professional placement in the vacation prior to the start of your third year (6 - 10 weeks, subject to suitable arrangements). This is then followed by an extended individual project during your third year, specifically designed around your placement. You will be encouraged to stay in touch with your placement host throughout the completion of your academic project and to continue this relationship for your 4th year MMath project.

The combined placement and project allows you to undertake paid vacation work while gaining highly relevant career experience. We have excellent links with employers and can provide assistance in finding suitable employment.

All our undergraduate students can choose to take an optional Commercial and Industrial Experience module during the vacation before the third year. This opportunity allows you to gain paid work experience in a commercial setting while earning credits towards your degree programme. Professional experience not only develops your CV but helps you to determine your career aspirations.

In the final year, you will learn about research in Mathematics and will undertake an individual 30-credit project, supervised by a member of academic staff. You will also be able to choose options from a range of advanced modules in Mathematics and its applications. 

The MSci prepares mathematicians to work in a named area of science of major contemporary importance. There are currently two streams: Climate Science and Mathematical Biology.