Subject to you meeting the relevant requirements, your fourth year will be spent in industry.
University Park Campus, Nottingham, UK
Qualification | Entry Requirements | Start Date | UCAS code | Duration | Fees |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MMath Hons | A*AA/AAA/A*AB | September 2025 | G106 | 5 years full-time | TBC |
Qualification | Entry Requirements | Start Date | UCAS code | Duration | Fees |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MMath Hons | A*AA/AAA/A*AB | September 2025 | G106 | 5 years full-time | TBC |
This programme will meet 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.
This programme will meet 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.
6 in HL Mathematics Analysis and Approaches
6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each.
As well as IELTS (listed above), we also accept other English language qualifications. This includes TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB and O level English. Check our English language policies and equivalencies for further details.
For presessional English or one-year foundation courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations.
If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a Presessional English for Academic Purposes (PEAP) course. Our Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.
If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.
Check our country-specific information for guidance on qualifications from your country
At least A in A level mathematics. Required grades depend on whether A/AS level further mathematics is offered.
Standard offer
A*AA including A* mathematics
or
AAA including mathematics and further mathematics
or
AAA including mathematics, plus A in AS further mathematics
or
A*AB including A*A in any order from mathematics and further mathematics
English 4 (C) or equivalent
General studies, critical thinking, citizenship studies, thinking skills, global perspectives and research
A level
GCSEs
Alternative qualifications
We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.
Consequently we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we gladly accept students with a whole range of less conventional qualifications including:
This list is not exhaustive. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Please see the alternative qualifications page for more information.
RQF BTEC Nationals
Access to HE Diploma
Access to HE Diploma 42 graded Level 3 credits at Distinction and 3 graded Level 3 credits at Merit, plus A level mathematics grade A*
STEP/MAT/TMUA is not required but may be taken into consideration when offered.
Foundation progression options
If you are an International applicant who does not have the required qualifications or grades for direct entry to this course, you may be interested in the Science and Engineering Foundation Certificate delivered through the University of Nottingham International College.
If you satisfy the progression requirements, you can progress to any of our mathematics courses.
Other foundation year programmes are considered individually, but you must have studied maths at an advanced level (A level standard).
At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the mature students webpage.
International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.
At least A in A level mathematics. Required grades depend on whether A/AS level further mathematics is offered.
Standard offer
A*AA including A* mathematics
or
AAA including mathematics and further mathematics
or
AAA including mathematics, plus A in AS further mathematics
or
A*AB including A*A in any order from mathematics and further mathematics
English 4 (C) or equivalent
General studies, critical thinking, citizenship studies, thinking skills, global perspectives and research
6 in HL Mathematics Analysis and Approaches
A level
GCSEs
Alternative qualifications
We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.
Consequently we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we gladly accept students with a whole range of less conventional qualifications including:
This list is not exhaustive. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Please see the alternative qualifications page for more information.
RQF BTEC Nationals
Access to HE Diploma
Access to HE Diploma 42 graded Level 3 credits at Distinction and 3 graded Level 3 credits at Merit, plus A level mathematics grade A*
STEP/MAT/TMUA is not required but may be taken into consideration when offered.
We make contextual offers to students who may have experienced barriers that have restricted progress at school or college. Our standard contextual offer is usually one grade lower than the advertised entry requirements, and our enhanced contextual offer is usually two grades lower than the advertised entry requirements. To qualify for a contextual offer, you must have Home/UK fee status and meet specific criteria – check if you’re eligible.
Engineering and Physical Sciences Foundation (Integrated Honours Programme)
If you are a Home applicant and do not meet the entry requirements for direct entry to this course, you may be interested in researching our Engineering and Physical Sciences foundation programme.
If you satisfy the progression requirements, you can progress to any of our mathematics courses.
Other foundation year programmes are considered individually, but you must have studied maths at an advanced level (A level standard).
At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the mature students webpage.
On this course, you can apply to study abroad at one of our partner institutions or at University of Nottingham China.
Benefits of studying abroad
Countries you could go to:
To study abroad you need to achieve a 60% minimum average mark in your degree, during the year before you travel. A good academic reference and personal statement should be provided as part of the application process.
If you choose to spend a semester abroad through the university-wide exchange programme, the marks gained will count back to your Nottingham degree programme.
Year in industry
The placement year of this course enables you to gain first-hand experience of exciting challenges and refine the skills you have built so far in the course. While it is the student’s responsibility to find and secure a year in industry host, the university will support you throughout this process.
Please note: In order to undertake an integrated year in industry, you will have to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the university and meet any requirements specified by the industry host. There is no guarantee that you will be able to undertake an integrated year in industry as part of your course. If you do not secure an integrated year in industry opportunity, you will be required to transfer to the version of the course without an integrated year in industry. This will be reflected in the title of your degree when you graduate.
Placements
The fourth year optional module Communicating Mathematics involves a placement in a local school as a teaching assistant. The placement allows you to gain authentic experience of teaching mathematics, whilst undertaking research to develop your teaching practice and understanding of mathematics education theory.
Please be aware that study abroad, compulsory year abroad, optional placements/internships and integrated year in industry opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities or placement/industry hosts, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the university’s control. Every effort will be made to update this information as quickly as possible should a change occur.
On this course, you can apply to study abroad at one of our partner institutions or at University of Nottingham China.
Benefits of studying abroad
Countries you could go to:
To study abroad you need to achieve a 60% minimum average mark in your degree, during the year before you travel. A good academic reference and personal statement should be provided as part of the application process.
If you choose to spend a semester abroad through the university-wide exchange programme, the marks gained will count back to your Nottingham degree programme.
Year in industry
The placement year of this course enables you to gain first-hand experience of exciting challenges and refine the skills you have built so far in the course. While it is the student’s responsibility to find and secure a year in industry host, the university will support you throughout this process.
Please note: In order to undertake an integrated year in industry, you will have to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the university and meet any requirements specified by the industry host. There is no guarantee that you will be able to undertake an integrated year in industry as part of your course. If you do not secure an integrated year in industry opportunity, you will be required to transfer to the version of the course without an integrated year in industry. This will be reflected in the title of your degree when you graduate.
Placements
The fourth year optional module Communicating Mathematics involves a placement in a local school as a teaching assistant. The placement allows you to gain authentic experience of teaching mathematics, whilst undertaking research to develop your teaching practice and understanding of mathematics education theory.
Please be aware that study abroad, compulsory year abroad, optional placements/internships and integrated year in industry opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities or placement/industry hosts, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the university’s control. Every effort will be made to update this information as quickly as possible should a change occur.
* For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.
If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).
All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice.
As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses.
Books
You should be able to access most of the books you’ll need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies.
Printing
Due to our commitment to sustainability, we don’t print lecture notes but these are available digitally.
For the year in industry, you may be paid but you will need to factor in accommodation or travel costs.
Equipment
To support your studies, the university recommends you have a suitable laptop to work on when on or off campus. If you already have a device, it is unlikely you will need a new one in the short term. If you are looking into buying a new device, we recommend you buy a Windows laptop, as it is more flexible and many software packages you will need are only compatible with Windows.
Although you won’t need a very powerful computer, it is wise to choose one that will last. The university has prepared a set of recommended specifications to help you choose a suitable laptop.
If you are experiencing financial difficulties and you are struggling to manage your costs, the Hardship Funds may be able to assist you.
School scholarships
We offer an international orientation scholarship of £2,000 to the best international (full-time, non EU) applicants on this course.
It will be paid at most once for each year of study. If you repeat a year for any reason, the scholarship will not be paid for that repeated year. The scholarship is awarded in subsequent years to students who perform well academically (at the level of a 2:1 Hons degree or better at the first attempt).
The scholarship will be paid in December each year provided you have:
International students
We offer a range of international undergraduate scholarships for high-achieving international scholars who can put their Nottingham degree to great use in their careers.
The UK Government is intending to increase the tuition fee cap for UK undergraduate and Initial Teacher Training students studying in England to £9,535 for the 2025/26 academic year. This is an increase of £285 per year. Course pages will be updated to reflect the latest tuition fees as more information becomes available. For more information, visit the Government’s website and take a look at our FAQs.
* For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.
If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).
All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice.
As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses.
Books
You should be able to access most of the books you’ll need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies.
Printing
Due to our commitment to sustainability, we don’t print lecture notes but these are available digitally.
For the year in industry, you may be paid but you will need to factor in accommodation or travel costs.
Equipment
To support your studies, the university recommends you have a suitable laptop to work on when on or off campus. If you already have a device, it is unlikely you will need a new one in the short term. If you are looking into buying a new device, we recommend you buy a Windows laptop, as it is more flexible and many software packages you will need are only compatible with Windows.
Although you won’t need a very powerful computer, it is wise to choose one that will last. The university has prepared a set of recommended specifications to help you choose a suitable laptop.
If you are experiencing financial difficulties and you are struggling to manage your costs, the Hardship Funds may be able to assist you.
School scholarships
We offer an international orientation scholarship of £2,000 to the best international (full-time, non EU) applicants on this course.
It will be paid at most once for each year of study. If you repeat a year for any reason, the scholarship will not be paid for that repeated year. The scholarship is awarded in subsequent years to students who perform well academically (at the level of a 2:1 Hons degree or better at the first attempt).
The scholarship will be paid in December each year provided you have:
Home students*
Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary, worth up to £1,000 a year. Full details can be found on our financial support pages.
* A 'home' student is one who meets certain UK residence criteria. These are the same criteria as apply to eligibility for home funding from Student Finance.
Are you curious about how advanced techniques in mathematical modelling are used? Do you want to learn about insights from the latest mathematical research? Perhaps you are keen to apply this learning to a real-life situation with a placement year as part of your degree.
During this MMath you will cover these topics, learning from dedicated mathematicians. Our degree gives you the chance to learn more about the exciting research our academics are working on, whilst equipping you with the knowledge and skills to carry out your own research.
You'll develop your skills in problem solving and analysis. The course will also enable you to enhance and develop your transferable skills in project work, group study and presentations, then apply them in the workplace during your year in industry.
There's a range of specialised modules across all branches of mathematics, based upon our diverse research interests.
Are you curious about how advanced techniques in mathematical modelling are used? Do you want to learn about insights from the latest mathematical research? Perhaps you are keen to apply this learning to a real-life situation with a placement year as part of your degree.
During this MMath you will cover these topics, learning from dedicated mathematicians. Our degree gives you the chance to learn more about the exciting research our academics are working on, whilst equipping you with the knowledge and skills to carry out your own research.
You'll develop your skills in problem solving and analysis. The course will also enable you to enhance and develop your transferable skills in project work, group study and presentations, then apply them in the workplace during your year in industry.
There's a range of specialised modules across all branches of mathematics, based upon our diverse research interests. Our academics are working on problems that span:
Our co-created curriculum is redefining studying maths. Imagine being part of a vibrant community where students have actively shaped the degree programmes.
We believe in collaboration, and that's why our students, industry professionals, and alumni joined forces with our dedicated staff to design degrees suitable for the real world. As you would expect there is emphasis on mathematical concepts and techniques, but with a practical application too.
The industry placement opportunity enables you to take what you've learned and apply it to real projects in a professional working environment. The placement year can provide you with a source of income and can even lead to a job offer before you've graduated.
The first year of this accredited degree gives you a flavour of the different areas of mathematics on offer. You will cover topics spanning applied mathematics, pure mathematics, statistics and probability. You will work individually and in groups to solve real-world problems using advanced theories and techniques. It helps you to decide what you enjoy and if there are areas in which you want to specialise.
Later topics include:
There are lots of opportunities to apply your knowledge in a real-world context, by working together with other students and lecturers to tackle complex problems from industry and academia.
We work closely with our industry partners and alumni to ensure the course is matched to employer needs so you can enter the workplace confident in the skills and knowledge you've gained.
Important Information
This online prospectus has been drafted in advance of the academic year to which it applies. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publishing, but changes (for example to course content) are likely to occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of the course. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply for the course where there has been an interval between you reading this website and applying.
Mandatory
Year 1
Algebra
Mandatory
Year 1
Applied Mathematics
Mandatory
Year 1
Core Mathematics
Mandatory
Year 1
Probability and Statistics 1
Mandatory
Year 2
Complex Analysis
Mandatory
Year 2
Real analysis
Optional
Year 2
Algebra and Number Theory
Optional
Year 2
Classical and Quantum Mechanics
Optional
Year 2
Differential Equations 1
Optional
Year 2
Markov Chains
Optional
Year 2
Methods for Probability and Statistics
Optional
Year 2
Scientific Computation
Optional
Year 2
Linear Models
Optional
Year 2
Vector Calculus and Electromagnetism
Mandatory
Year 3
Mathematics Group Projects
Optional
Year 3
Advanced Quantum Theory
Optional
Year 3
Applied Statistical Modelling
Optional
Year 3
Coding and Cryptography
Optional
Year 3
Communicating Mathematics
Optional
Year 3
Discrete Mathematics and Graph Theory
Optional
Year 3
Electromagnetism
Optional
Year 3
Fluid Dynamics
Optional
Year 3
Game Theory
Optional
Year 3
Mathematical Finance
Optional
Year 3
Mathematical Medicine and Biology
Optional
Year 3
Multivariate Analysis
Optional
Year 3
Optimisation
Optional
Year 3
Relativity
Optional
Year 3
Scientific Computation and Numerical Analysis
Optional
Year 3
Statistical Inference
Optional
Year 3
Stochastic Models
Mandatory
Year 4
Year in industry
Mandatory
Year 5
Mathematics Dissertation
Optional
Year 5
Advanced Financial Mathematics
Optional
Year 5
Techniques for Differential Equations
Optional
Year 5
Algebraic Number Theory
Optional
Year 5
Black Holes
Optional
Year 5
Combinational Group Theory
Optional
Year 5
Communicating Mathematics
Optional
Year 5
Computational Applied Mathematics
Optional
Year 5
Differential Geometry
Optional
Year 5
Financial Mathematics
Optional
Year 5
Introduction to Quantum Information Science
Optional
Year 5
Quantum Field Theory
Optional
Year 5
Scientific Computing and C++
Optional
Year 5
Statistical Machine Learning
Optional
Year 5
Time Series and Forecasting
Optional
Year 5
Topics in Biomedical Mathematics
The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer, but is not intended to be construed or relied on as a definitive list of what might be available in any given year. This content was last updated on Thursday 13 June 2024. Due to timetabling availability, there may be restrictions on some module combinations.
Subject to you meeting the relevant requirements, your fourth year will be spent in industry.
You may be able to choose to study a language as part of this degree.
Learning another language can open career opportunities around the globe and enriches your CV. It could also help you in your studies by being able to access learning materials in other languages.
If you are planning to travel or work abroad it will help you to broaden your cultural understanding.
Our Language Centre offers many languages, and you may start as a beginner or at a more advanced level.
Find out more about learning a language as part of your degree
Pure mathematics at university is typically very different to the pure mathematics you've learnt at school or college. In this module, you'll use the language of sets, functions and relations to study abstract mathematical ideas. You will also learn how to construct mathematical proofs. Topics that you will learn about include set theory, prime numbers, symmetry and groups, and integer and polynomial arithmetic.
You’ll learn how to construct and analyse differential and difference equations that model real-world systems. Applications that you’ll learn about include systems governed by Newton’s laws of motion, such as sets of interacting particles and the orbits of planets, as well as models of population dynamics. You will also be introduced to the mathematical basis of concepts such as work and energy, including an introduction to the basic ideas of quantum mechanics.
Calculus provides the basic, underpinning mathematics for much of modern technology, from the design of chemical reactors and high-speed trains to models for gene networks and space missions. The basic ideas that underpin calculus are functions and limits, and to study these rigorously you need to learn about the tools of mathematical analysis. In this module, in addition to differential equations and the calculus of functions of one or more variables and their differentiation, integration and analysis, you will learn the basics of logic and how to construct rigorous proofs.
Linear algebra underpins many areas of modern mathematics. The basic objects that you will study in this module are vectors, matrices and linear transformations. Topics covered include vector geometry, matrix algebra, vector spaces, linear systems of equations, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and inner product spaces. The mathematical tools that you study in this module are fundamental to many mathematical, statistical, and computational models of the real world.
There is no area of modern mathematics that does not use computational methods to make progress on problems with which the human brain is unable to cope due to the volume of calculations required. Scientific computation underpins many technological developments in all sectors of the economy. You will learn how to write code for mathematical applications using Python. Python is a freely available, widely used computer language. No previous computing knowledge will be assumed.
Probability theory allows us to assess risk when calculating insurance premiums. It can help when making investment decisions. It can be used to estimate the impact that government policy will have on climate change or the spread of disease. In this module, you will study the theory and practice of discrete and continuous probability, including topics such as Bayes’ theorem, multivariate random variables, probability distributions and the central limit theorem.
Statistics is concerned with methods for collecting, organising, summarising, presenting and analysing data. It enables us to draw valid conclusions and make reasonable decisions based on statistical analysis. It can be used to answer a diverse range of questions in areas such as the pharmaceuticals industry, economic planning and finance. In this module you’ll study statistical inference and learn how to analyse, interpret and report data. Topics that you’ll learn about include, point estimators and confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, linear regression and goodness-of-fit tests.
This course introduces the theory and applications of functions of a complex variable, using an approach oriented towards methods and applications. You will also learn about functions of complex variables and study topics including, analyticity, Laurent series, contour integrals and residue calculus and its applications.
In this module you will further develop your understanding of the tools of real analysis. This provides you with a solid foundation for subsequent modules in metric and topological spaces, relativity, and numerical analysis. You’ll study topics such as the Bolzano-Weierstrass Theorem, norms, sequences and series of functions, differentiability, and the Riemann integral.
In this module, you’ll explore the abstract mathematical structures of different types of groups, including rings. Topics that you’ll study include permutations, Abelian groups, quotient groups, ring homomorphisms and polynomial rings. Number theory is a branch of pure mathematics that primarily studies the integers, and has applications, for example, in cryptography. Topics that you will study include Diophantine equations, congruence equations and Fermat’s little theorem.
In this module you will learn how Newtonian mechanics can be developed into the more powerful formulations due to Lagrange and Hamilton and be introduced to the basic structure of quantum mechanics. The module provides the foundation for a wide range of more advanced modules in mathematical physics.
This module is an introduction to methods of solving some of the most important ordinary and partial differential equations that occur in applied mathematics and mathematical physics. You will learn about finding series solutions to ordinary differential equations, Fourier series representation of functions, and Fourier and Laplace transforms, using them to solve ordinary and partial differential equations.
The purpose of this module is to provide a thorough grounding in a broad range of techniques required in the analysis of probabilistic models, and to introduce stochastic processes by studying techniques and concepts common in the analysis of discrete time Markov Chains.
In this module you will develop your understanding of probability theory and random variables, with particular attention paid to continuous random variables. Fundamental concepts relating to probability will be discussed in detail, including limit theorems and the multivariate normal distribution. You will also meet some new statistical concepts and methods. The key concepts of inference including estimation and hypothesis testing will be described as well as practical data analysis and assessment of model adequacy.
Most mathematical problems cannot be solved analytically or would take too long to solve by hand. Instead, computational algorithms must be used. In this module, you’ll learn about algorithms for approximating functions, derivatives, and integrals, and for solving many types of algebraic and ordinary differential equations.
In this module, you will be introduced to a wide range of statistical concepts and methods fundamental to applications of statistics, and meet the key concepts and theory of linear models, illustrating their application via practical examples drawn from real-life situations.
This module provides a grounding in the techniques of vector calculus and illustrates their use by developing the theory of electromagnetism and Maxwell’s equations. You will be introduced to the vector differentiation operations of gradient, divergence and curl, integration methods for scalar and vector quantities over paths, surfaces and volumes, and the relationship of these operations to each other via the integral theorems of Green, Stokes and Gauss. These concepts will be illustrated through examples drawn from the theory of electromagnetism
This module involves the application of mathematics to a variety of practical, open-ended problems - typical of those that mathematicians encounter in industry and commerce.
Specific projects are tackled through workshops and student-led group activities. The real-life nature of the problems requires you to develop skills in model development and refinement, report writing and teamwork. There are various streams within the module, for example:
This ensures that you can work in the area that you find most interesting.
In this module you will apply the quantum mechanics that you learned in Year 2 to more general problems. New topics will be introduced such as the quantum theory of the hydrogen atom and aspects of angular momentum such as spin.
During this module you will build on your theoretical knowledge of statistical inference by a practical implementation of the generalised linear model. You will progress to enhance your understanding of statistical methodology including the analysis of discrete and survival data. You will also be trained in the use of a high-level statistical computer program.
This module provides an introduction to coding theory in particular to error-correcting codes and their uses and applications. You’ll learn cryptography, including classical mono- and polyalphabetic ciphers. There will also be a focus on modern public key cryptography and digital signatures, their uses and applications.
This course provides an opportunity for third-year students to gain first-hand experience of being involved with providing mathematical education. Students will work at local schools alongside practising mathematics teachers in a classroom environment and will improve their skills at communicating mathematics. Typically, each student will work with a class (or classes) for half a day a week for about sixteen weeks. Students will be given a range of responsibilities from classroom assistant to leading a self-originated mathematical activity or project. The assessment is carried out by a variety of means: on-going reflective log, contribution to reflective seminar, oral presentation and a final written report.
The aim of Discrete Mathematics is the study of discrete and finite rather than continuous quantities. This includes counting problems, graphs and other quantities parametrised by integers.
As such Discrete Mathematics is of great importance for various branches of Pure Mathematics, Mathematical Physics, Statistics and Computer Sciences.
The course will cover a range of Discrete Mathematics topics, including:
The module provides an introduction to electromagnetism and the electrodynamics of charged particles. You will meet Maxwell’s equations and learn how they describe a wide variety of phenomena, including electrostatic fields and electromagnetic waves.
You will extend your understanding of fluid flow by introducing the concept of viscosity and studying the fundamental governing equations for the motion of liquids and gases.
Methods for solution of these equations are introduced, including exact solutions and approximate solutions valid for thin layers. A further aim is to apply the theory to model fluid dynamical problems of physical relevance.
Game theory contains many branches of mathematics (and computing); the emphasis here is primarily algorithmic. The module starts with an investigation into normal-form games, including strategic dominance, Nash equilibria, and the Prisoner’s Dilemma. We look at tree-searching, including alpha-beta pruning, the ‘killer’ heuristic and its relatives. It then turns to mathematical theory of games; exploring the connection between numbers and games, including Sprague-Grundy theory and the reduction of impartial games to Nim.
You will explore the concepts of discrete time Markov chains to understand how they used. We will also provide an introduction to probabilistic and stochastic modelling of investment strategies, and for the pricing of financial derivatives in risky markets.
You will gain well-rounded knowledge of contemporary issues which are of importance in research and workplace applications.
Mathematics can be usefully applied to a wide range of applications in medicine and biology.
Without assuming any prior biological knowledge, this module describes how mathematics helps us understand topics such as:
There is considerable emphasis on model building and development.
This module is concerned with the analysis of multivariate data, in which the response is a vector of random variables rather than a single random variable. A theme running through the module is that of dimension reduction.
Key topics to be covered include:
In this module a variety of techniques and areas of mathematical optimisation will be covered including Lagrangian methods for optimisation, simplex algorithm linear programming and dynamic programming. You’ll develop techniques for application which can be used outside the mathematical arena.
You will be introduced to Einstein’s theory of general and special relativity. The relativistic laws of mechanics will be described within a unified framework of space and time. You’ll learn how to compare other theories against this work and you’ll be able to explain exciting new phenomena that occur in relativity.
You'll learn how to use numerical techniques for determining the approximate solution of ordinary and partial differential equations where a solution cannot be found through analytical methods alone. You will also cover topics in numerical linear algebra, discovering how to solve very large systems of equations and find their eigenvalues and eigenvectors using a computer.
This module is concerned with the two main theories of statistical inference, namely classical (frequentist) inference and Bayesian inference.
You will explore the following topics in detail:
There is special emphasis on the exponential family of distributions, which includes many standard distributions such as the normal, Poisson, binomial and gamma.
This module will develop your knowledge of discrete-time Markov chains by applying them to a range of stochastic models. You will be introduced to Poisson and birth-and-death processes. You will then move onto more extensive studies of epidemic models and queuing models, with introductions to component and system reliability.
Subject to you meeting the relevant requirements, your fourth year will be spent in industry.
The placement year opportunity enables you to take what you've learned and apply it to real projects in a professional working environment. You will be supported by a placement tutor in securing a position and they will keep in touch during the year to see how you are getting on. The placement year can provide you with a source of income and can even lead to a job offer before you've graduated.
Important information
Please be aware that study abroad, compulsory year abroad, optional placements/internships and integrated year in industry opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities or placement/industry hosts, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the university’s control. Every effort will be made to update this information as quickly as possible should a change occur.
This module consists of a self-directed investigation of a project selected from a list of projects or, subject to prior approval of the School, from elsewhere.
The project will be supervised by a member of staff and will be based on a substantial mathematical problem, an application of mathematics or investigation of an area of mathematics not previously studied by the student. The course includes training in the use of IT resources, the word-processing of mathematics and report writing.
40 compulsory credits throughout the year
You will develop your knowledge and skills relevant to the mathematical modelling of investment and finance. Also, research experience will be broadened by undertaking some independent reading, computer simulations, group work and summarising the material in a project report.
The development of techniques for the study of nonlinear differential equations is a major worldwide research activity to which members of the School have made important contributions. This course will cover a number of state-of-the-art methods, namely:
These will be illustrated by applications in the biological and physical sciences.
This module presents the fundamental features of algebraic number theory, the theory in which numbers are viewed from an algebraic point of view. Numbers are often treated as elements of rings, fields and modules, and properties of numbers are reformulated in terms of the relevant algebraic structures.
This approach leads to understanding of certain arithmetical properties of numbers (in particular, integers) from a new point of view.
You’ll systematically study black holes and their properties, including astrophysical processes, horizons and singularities. You’ll have an introduction to black hole radiation to give you an insight into problems of research interest. You’ll gain knowledge to help you begin research into general relativity.
Since the chromosome of H. influenzae was sequenced in 1995 hundreds of thousands of genomes have been analysed, revealing surprises that include how abundant, non-coding RNAs can control cellular processes, and how failure of these processes can trigger disease. As a result, there is a now growing understanding of the fundamental importance of non-coding RNAs in all regulatory networks and cellular mechanisms.
The first part of this module will describe the role of non-coding RNAs in the regulation of biological processes, focusing on new and exciting discoveries in micro-RNAs, piwi-RNAs and long non-coding RNAs. Information will be presented and linked to experimental models of neuron development and function, currently being investigated at the University of Nottingham.
Throughout, this module will describe these RNA molecules and their associated proteins, and how their discovery revolutionised how we understand biological systems, causes of disease, and the development of novel approaches such as RNA silencing and CRISPR for use in medical research and biotechnology. Similar to the first part of the module, students will be taught about these RNA technologies by those using them directly in state-of-the-art research projects.
There is a need for students to learn about this emerging and cutting-edge knowledge, because it is important to fully appreciate biochemistry and molecular biology across all organisms. Moreover, it will provide a detailed background on one of the fastest evolving areas of cellular and molecular biology, with incredible promise in the development of future therapeutic options across multiple disease backgrounds.
This course provides an opportunity for third-year students to gain first-hand experience of being involved with providing mathematical education. Students will work at local schools alongside practising mathematics teachers in a classroom environment and will improve their skills at communicating mathematics. Typically, each student will work with a class (or classes) for half a day a week for about sixteen weeks.
Students will be given a range of responsibilities from classroom assistant to leading a self-originated mathematical activity or project. The assessment is carried out by a variety of means: on-going reflective log, contribution to reflective seminar, oral presentation and a final written report.
This module introduces computational methods for solving problems in applied mathematics. You will develop knowledge and understanding to design, justify and implement relevant computational techniques and methodologies.
By studying this module, you’ll be equipped with the tools and knowledge to extend your understanding of general relativity. You’ll explore more abstract and powerful concepts using examples of curved space-times such as Lie groups and manifolds among others.
The first part of the module introduces no-arbitrage pricing principle and financial instruments such as forward and futures contracts, bonds and swaps, and options. The second part of the module considers the pricing and hedging of options and discrete-time discrete-space stochastic processes. The final part of the module focuses on the Black-Scholes formula for pricing European options and also introduces the Wiener process. Ito integrals and stochastic differential equations.
This module gives a mathematical introduction to quantum information theory. The aim is to provide you with a background in quantum information science. This will help with your further independent learning and allow you to understand the scope and nature of current research topics.
In this year-long module you’ll be introduced to the study of the quantum dynamics of relativistic particles. You’ll learn about the quantum description of electrons, photons and other elementary particles, leading to an understanding of the standard model of particle physics.
The purpose of this course is to introduce concepts of scientific programming using the object oriented language C++ for applications arising in the mathematical modelling of physical processes. Students taking this module will develop knowledge and understanding of a variety or relevant numerical techniques and how to efficiently implement them in C++.
20 credits in the Autumn Semester
Machine Learning is a topic at the interface between statistics and computer science that concerns models that can adapt to and make predictions based on data. This module builds on principles of statistical inference and linear regression. It introduces a variety of methods of regression and classification, trade-off, and on methods to measure and compensate for overfitting.
You will benefit with hands-on learning using computational methods to tackle challenging real world machine learning problems.
This module will provide you with a general introduction to the analysis of data that arise sequentially in time. You will discuss several commonly-occurring models, including methods for model identification for real-time series data. You will develop techniques for estimating the parameters of a model, assessing its fit and forecasting future values.
This module illustrates the applications of advanced techniques of mathematical modelling using ordinary and partial differential equations. A variety of medical and biological topics are covered bringing you closer to active fields of mathematical research.
You will broaden and deepen your knowledge of mathematical ideas and techniques using a wide variety of different methods of study. Teaching is predominantly in-person, supplemented by online methods (such as flipped learning) where appropriate.
In both academia and the wider world of work, mathematics has become a collaborative discipline, and our degree programme takes this into account. As well as more traditional individual study methods, where you work on challenging mathematical problems, you will also collaborate with other students in group problem solving sessions. You will write about your work in reports and present your findings to your study group.
Here’s just some of the changes we have introduced to the degrees to ensure you get the most out of your mathematical learning:
60% of the first and second years are assessed by examination, whilst the remaining marks are gained from coursework, computing assignments and small-scale group projects.
Subsequent years will be assessed using a combination of examinations, coursework, computing assignments, group projects and presentations. The specific combination of learning activities will depend on your choice of modules and will be aligned with the topics covered.
The first year is a qualifying year but does not count towards your final degree classification. In year two the assessments will account for 20% of your final mark with years three and five accounting for 40% each. In the fifth year you will do an assessed oral presentation as part of the final year dissertation.
Students require 55% at the first attempt in the second year to progress on this programme. Students who do not achieve this will automatically be transferred to BSc Mathematics with a Year in Industry
You will be given a copy of our marking criteria which provides guidance on how your work is assessed. Your work will be marked in a timely manner and you will have regular opportunities to give and receive feedback on your progress with your tutor and lecturers.
The year in industry will be assessed by you being required to prepare a final report and poster of your experience and taking part in a placements fair arranged by the school.
The majority of modules are worth 10 or 20 credits. You will study modules totalling 120 credits in each year. As a guide one credit equates to approximately 10 hours of work. During the first year, you will typically spend approximately:
You can attend drop-in sessions each week up to a maximum of two hours and the remaining time will be spent in independent study.
In later years, you are likely to spend up to 15 hours per week in lectures and workshops subject to your module selection.
In your first year you will meet with your personal tutor every week during term time. In small groups of 5-6 students, you'll run through core topics and practice working together in a group to solve problems and communicate mathematics effectively.
All of our modules are delivered by lecturers or professors. PhD students sometimes support problem classes and computing workshops in their areas of expertise. Lectures in the first two years often include at least 200 students but class sizes are much more variable in the third year subject to module selection.
Mathematics is a broad and versatile subject leading to many possible careers. Skilled mathematicians are found in a variety of organisations, in lots of different sectors.
As this is a new degree programme based on the main MMath course, our students are yet to graduate. Our standard MMath graduates are helping to shape the future in many sectors including data analysis, finance and IT. Many work in science, engineering or consultancy, others pursue careers within government departments. Some graduates choose a career in mathematical research.
The knowledge and skills that you will gain during this degree, can typically lead to roles working as:
Read our alumni profiles for the sort of jobs our graduates go on to do.
Become a PASS leader in your second or third year. Teaching first-year students reinforces your own mathematical knowledge. It develops communication, organisational and time management skills which can help to enhance your CV when you start applying for jobs
The Nottingham Internship Scheme provides a range of work experience opportunities and internships throughout the year
The Nottingham Advantage Award is our free scheme to boost your employability. There are over 200 extracurricular activities to choose from
86.40% of undergraduates from the School of Mathematical Sciences secured employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £27,490.
HESA Graduate Outcomes (2017-2021 cohorts). The Graduate Outcomes % is calculated using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.
Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.
Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.
Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.
The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top ten in The Graduate Market in 2013-2020, High Fliers Research).
University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.
University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.
If you’re looking for more information, please head to our help and support hub, where you can find frequently asked questions or details of how to make an enquiry.
If you’re looking for more information, please head to our help and support hub, where you can find frequently asked questions or details of how to make an enquiry.