Mathematics and Computer Science Joint Honours: University of Birmingham

Degree: BSc/MSci
Address: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Duration: 3 years for BSc, 4 years for MSci
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 3344
Fax: +44(0)121 414 3971

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Courses available

Mathematics and Computer Science BSc/MSci
UCAS code: GG14
Pure Mathematics and Computer Science BSc/MSci
UCAS code: GGC4

A degree in Mathematics and Computer Science will allow you to develop many of the skills you would gain from the corresponding Single Honours programmes, with the advantage of studying both of these closely related subjects.

Mathematicians use computers to solve complex equations, analyse large data sets and even to prove theorems. Computer scientists use mathematics to design efficient compression algorithms, to understand the semantics of programming languages and for the theory behind internet security systems.

The BSc degree gives you a choice of modules in both Mathematics and Computer Science, with a chance to do project work in either subject. The MSci option allows you to pursue your interests to greater depth and gives you the opportunity to study almost as much mathematics or computer science as you would on a Single Honours programme, but with all the benefits of a Joint Honours degree. You make the choice of the BSc or MSci at the end of your second year.

The Pure Mathematics and Computer Science programme is designed for students who want to explore the more theoretical aspects underpinning computer science. The modules you take in your first two years allow you to specialise in areas of pure mathematics, such as logic, in your final years.

First year

The first two years are carefully designed to allow you as much choice as possible in your final year. In the first year you study core calculus and algebra. On GG14 you take modules in either applied mathematics or in discrete mathematics and statistics; on GGC4 you study pure mathematics instead. In Computer Science you study the foundations of computer science together with program design and programming techniques.

Second year

You take modules in advanced calculus and algebra, management mathematics, algorithms, data structures and logic. Your interests will develop towards either software engineering or the more mathematical themes that involve computation.

Third year

The third year offers you a choice of modules with the possibility of specialising in either Mathematics or Computer Science. Project modules, particularly in Computer Science, are encouraged.

Fourth year

The fourth year allows you to specialise even further. All MSci students take a significant project module in their final year, either in Mathematics or Computer Science, or combing both disciplines. This might involve developing a complex piece of software or looking at some of the mathematics on which the more theoretical aspects of computer science is based.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching is shared between the Schools of Mathematics and Computer Science. For more information please see the relevant sections of the Single Honours Mathematics entry and About courses in Computing and Artificial Intelligence

Career opportunities

Almost all of the career paths open to graduates in both Mathematics and Computer Science are available to you. Your skills will equip you for a wide range of careers in industry and commerce, research and development, as well as the many other areas where your knowledge of mathematics and computer technologies will be in demand.

Entry requirements

Number of A levels required: 3
Typical offers: AAA–AAB for GGC4; AAB–ABB for GG14
Required subjects and grades: A level Mathematics at grade A; Computing A level is not required but some experience of programming would be advantageous
General Studies: not accepted, but a grade A may be considered if you fail to meet your offer
International Baccalaureate Diploma: 34–36 points for GGC4; 32–34 points for GG14, including 6 points in Mathematics at HL

Other qualifications are considered – see the entry requirements section for full details

Additional information

For more information please see the Single Honours Mathematics and Computer Science entries in this prospectus and visit our Admissions web pages at www.mat.bham.ac.uk/admissions
If you would like a copy of our Admissions Brochure please send your name and address to maths@bham.ac.uk
They are happy to discuss your individual offer with you.

General Contact Information

School of Mathematics

Postal Address: School of Mathematics
The Watson Building
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 121 414 6587
Fax: 0121 414 3389
Email: maths@bham.ac.uk
Website: www.mat.bham.ac.uk

School of Computer Science

Postal Address: School of Computer Science
The University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 121 414 3744
Fax: +44 121 414 4281
Email: office@cs.bham.ac.uk
Website: www.cs.bham.ac.uk

Contact details