Mathematical Sciences

Subject in detail

Subject aims

The Department of Mathematical Sciences is a top rated Department with a wide range of interests. These include many branches of pure and applied mathematics, numerical analysis, mathematical biology, probability theory, statistics and mathematical computing.

Flexibility is key to the courses offered, and all programmes contain a large amount of choice, whilst maintaining a coherent structure. Programmes have been designed with the following key aims in mind:

to enable students to develop a broad and balanced foundation of knowledge, theoretical understanding and practical skills in mathematics, statistics and computing
to enable students to apply their mathematical knowledge and skills to the solution of problems
to offer students a flexible educational framework that enables them to specialise or maintain a broad course of study
to produce graduates capable of pursuing a professional career or of proceeding to further study or research.

Teaching and learning

The theory based approach of this programme is characterised by traditional lectures with appropriate student interaction to facilitate learning. Understanding is supported and reinforced through whole-group problem classes.

Lecture based units in years 1 and 2 are further supported by a weekly small group tutorial in which solutions to problem sheets are discussed. This requires independent study and problem-solving by the student in preparation for each tutorial.

Methods of assessment

Most units are assessed by examination at the end of the semester in which they are taught. A few, covering the more practical aspects of statistics or computing, use a mixture of coursework and examinations, or coursework alone.

Units & programme structure

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