This four-year Mathematics masters programme has a student satisfaction rating of 91%
At Birmingham, our Mathematics programmes are designed to give you a sound mathematical basis in a broad range of subject areas. You will learn to apply analytical, statistical and computational skills to formulate and tackle problems; think logically, independently and imaginatively; and use technical language and express complex ideas clearly and accurately. You will make the choice as to whether you continue on to a BSc or MSci programme at the end of your second year. If you miss the entry criteria for the MSci but you meet the BSc criteria, you will automatically be considered for entry onto the BSc.
First year
Your first year is carefully designed to manage the step up from school to university mathematics, focusing on the key ideas you will need later in the programme. Alongside core calculus and algebra, other modules develop discrete mathematics, mechanics, pure mathematics, statistics and computational mathematics - you do not need to have studied these subjects before.
As an MSci student, you will also be expected to take a challenging problem solving course as your optional module outside the main discipline. This course will teach you to solve mathematical problems independently and present the solutions with confidence. It is ideal preparation for the project in year four, and develops invaluable skills for later employment. You could choose to study a completely different subject, such as a foreign language, if you wish to do so.
Second year
As well as having some choice of modules, you will now be introduced to some of the more advanced areas of mathematics, such as complex analysis, allowing you to develop your particular strengths and interests in the third year. You will make the choice whether to take the BSc or MSci at the end of this year.
Third year
You will now be able to specialise in one area of mathematics or cover several different areas. The range of modules to choose from is very wide - from the highly abstract, such as logic, to the highly applicable, such as financial mathematics. MSci students take at least one module involving project work, and if you’re interested in pursuing a career teaching there is an option to work in a local school.
Fourth year
You can now reach the cutting-edge of mathematics, choosing dedicated fourth-year modules that reflect staff research interests. Classes are often small and highly interactive. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the MSci is the project, worth one third of your final-year mark. Here you will work individually, guided by a supervisor, on a project of your choice, allowing you to experience the challenge and pleasure of mathematical research. The process of working independently on a major project, writing a substantial report and presenting your work to others develops skills highly valued by employers.
Year in Computer Science/professional placement
Between your second and third year, you can choose to do a year of study in Computer Science, ideal if you expect your final career to involve a significant amount of computing. You could also opt for a professional or industrial placement..
Generic skills-training, focusing on transferable skills and employability, is embedded throughout the course from the outset, and will ensure that you are equipped with the ICT, presentation, team-working and problem–solving skills which will enhance your employability on graduation. . Project and programming work in particular help to develop these skills.
BSc or MSci? The first two years of this MSci course are interchangeable with our BSc programme (GG14) , which means you can delay your final choice of degree (BSc or MSci) until the end of Year 2. MSci study is dependent upon performance so you will need to successfully complete Year 2 with a high 2ii to remain on to the MSci programme.
Other options
Studying any mathematics course at Birmingham will expand your knowledge and understanding of the world, helping you to become a sought-after graduate wherever there is a call for logical thinking and statistical or strategic knowledge.
At Birmingham, we provide a first-rate education that involves a range of learning environments, developing many skills to prepare you for future employment or further study. The School of Mathematics was one of only two maths departments in the country to be awarded full marks in the last national Assessment of Quality in Education.
The Mathematics Learning Resource Centre here provides an excellent environment for undergraduates to work independently, in groups, or with help from postgraduate students.
From 2000-2011, the university housed the national headquarters of the Maths, Stats & OR Network (MSOR), a subject centre of the Higher Education Academy. Between August 2009 and July 2012 we host a major national education programme that champions
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
teaching at universities throughout England and Wales.
Number of A levels required: 3
Typical offer: A*AA
Required subjects and grades: A level Mathematics at grade A*; Further Mathematics at A or AS level is not required, but would be advantageous and A2 Further Mathematics typically results in a lower offer
General Studies: Not accepted, but a grade A may be considered if you fail to meet your offer
Additional information:
Other qualifications are considered – learn more about entry requirements. We are happy to discuss your individual offer with you.
International students:
International Baccalaureate Diploma: 36 points, including 7 points in Mathematics at HL; SL Further Mathematics is not required but would be advantageous.
Standard English language requirements apply
Learn more about international entry requirements
Depending on your chosen course of study, you may also be interested in the Birmingham Foundation Academy, a specially structured programme for international students whose qualifications are not accepted for direct entry to UK universities. Further details can be found on the foundation academy web pages.
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