Computer Science and Mathematics MSci, BSc | School of Computer Science

Overview

Do you enjoy logical and creative thinking for solving puzzles and practical problems? Do you want to break boundaries and make discoveries with real-world impacts? With a degree in Computer Science and Mathematics, you will be in an excellent position to master the latest developments in algorithms, artificial intelligence, data analytics, computational science and much more.

This MSci, BSc programme is co-taught by the School of Computing and School of Mathematics, with the aim of preparing the next generation to meet some of the major challenges facing the modern world. You’ll gain the skills to pursue opportunities across a wide range of application areas, from games to cyber-security, from finance to analysis of business and networks, from engineering to medicine.

We place equal weight on both subjects to allow you to gain strong foundations as well as practical expertise. Mathematics and computer science offer complementary insights into topics such as logic, algorithms, graph theory, optimisation and machine learning, scientific computing and big data, all of which you will explore in this degree.

You will study among experts in specialist facilities, benefiting from world-class expertise in both schools. You will also apply what you’ve learned to an individual research project, helping you to develop the range of skills and experience you will need for a professional or academic career.

Research excellence

Our teaching is closely informed by research and innovation across algorithms and complexity, artificial intelligence, computational science engineering, distributed systems engineering and applied computing in biology, medicine and health. This offers a wide range of exciting areas for your final year project, where you will work on a cutting-edge topic of your choice under close expert supervision.

Researchers in the School of Computing and the School of Mathematics collaborate closely across a number of areas and are involved with:

The Alan Turing Institute, the UK's world-leading institute for data science and artificial intelligence.
The Leeds Institute for Data Analytics, which brings together over 200 researchers and data scientists within the University of Leeds.
The Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics, with the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Fluid Dynamics.
The UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training in Artificial Intelligence for Medical Diagnosis and Care

Environment and specialist facilities

You will join a community of students and staff from a wide range of backgrounds. We value and promote diversity, inclusivity and mutual respect, providing a supportive environment that strives to make sure that everyone can reach their full potential.

We are proud that our Engineering and Computing schools have been awarded the Athena Swan Silver Award from the Equality Challenge Unit, the national body that promotes equality in the higher education sector. Our equality and inclusion webpage provides more information.

You will have access to specialist facilities including well-equipped labs containing Linux and Microsoft platforms. For final-year project work you will also be able to make the most of our research facilities, such as a 53-megapixel Powerwall display and dedicated 3D virtual reality suite, a new testbed for cloud computing and dedicated labs with high-spec, dual-display Linux workstations, iPad, Mac and Android development areas, as well as access to world-class robotics labs.

Course content

Your first year will introduce you to a range of fundamental topics in both computing and mathematics, including computer programming, modelling, pure and applied mathematics, databases and statistics.

Building on this, in your second year you will study subjects including algorithms, data mining, formal languages, logic, artificial intelligence numerical computation and selected topics from algebra and calculus.

Your third year will provide you with specialised knowledge in the areas of algorithms, graph theory, modelling and AI, with modules including machine learning and combinatorial optimisation. Optional modules allow you to shape your curriculum towards Algorithms and Discrete Mathematics, Data Science, or Modelling and Artificial Intelligence.

Year 3 also gives you the chance to research a related topic in-depth, when you complete an individual project under the guidance of your academic supervisor.

In Year 4 you will undertake a major piece of group work, and optional modules in the final year of the MSci will allow you to focus on one of three individual specialisms: Algorithms and Complexity, Computational Science, or Artificial Intelligence.

We have recently developed the content of our Computer Science and Mathematics degree. Take a look at what you are likely to study in 2020. The course catalogue shows the modules studied in 2019.

Projects

Your third year individual project is your chance to put everything you’ve learned together, in an area of your interest.

Guided by an academic supervisor from the School of Computing, you may tackle a theoretical study, an exploratory software development, a software product or an empirical investigation. It is also possible have a co-supervisor from the School of Mathematics, or to do a joint project with one of our industrial partners.

You can choose from a wide range of topics, offered by experts of their fields, or even propose your own topic. Regular meetings with your supervisor(s) will offer guidance and support you to develop your full potential.

Finally, in your MSci year you’ll undertake a major group project that will further develop your research, teamwork, and project management skills, which includes a presentation and report writing.

Find out more about projects in years 3 and 4.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Discovery modules

Throughout your degree you will benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.

This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching

Learning across the two schools will provide a wide foundation and experience. You will benefit from encountering different ways of thinking and developing a range of problem-solving skills and approaches, with our tailored guidance providing bridges between topics in both subjects.

You’ll study among academics who are leading their fields. Our research feeds directly into our teaching, meaning you’ll learn about the very latest developments in your subject while gaining the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of the next generation of the IT industry.

To help you benefit from our expertise, we use a range of teaching and learning methods including lectures, lab classes, tutorials and example classes. Together they will equip you with in-depth knowledge and key practical skills that will put you in a good position to compete in science and technology-related careers. You’ll also work with an academic supervisor on your projects.

Our personal tutorial system will provide academic and pastoral support. You will have a designated personal tutor throughout your studies at Leeds. He or she will be an academic member of staff: you will have weekly academic tutorials with your tutor throughout your first year, in your tutor group (of typically five students), as well as one-to-one meetings twice per semester.

In addition, our excellent student support team is based close to where you’ll work and study to help with anything from academic advice to timetabling and project submission enquiries.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

You’ll be assessed using various methods including formal exams, lab practicals and project reports. Throughout the year, you’ll also be assessed using coursework, worksheets, in-module tests, example sheets and presentations to develop your knowledge and allow us to monitor your progress.

Entry requirements, fees and applying

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA including Mathematics, excluding General Studies.

Where an A-level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.

Excludes A-level General Studies or Critical Thinking.

Due to the competitive nature of this course, the Admissions team may take a variety of factors into account when assessing applications. Please read the admissions statement for further information.

Extended Project Qualification - Whilst we recognise the value, effort and enthusiasm applicants make in the Extended Project, we do not currently include this as part of our offer making. We do however encourage you to provide further information on your project in your personal statement and if invited, at interview.

GCSE: English Language at grade C (4) or above, or an appropriate English language qualification.

Other course specific tests:

Lower offers may be made based on demonstrated interest and aptitude for the subject (typically AAB). Where Maths or Computing are required this must be at grade A.

Access to HE Diploma

Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, 30 credits with Distinction (including an appropriate number of Mathematics modules) and the remaining 15 credits with Merit or above.
BTEC

D*D*D with Distinctions in all Mathematics units. Mathematics units must include Further Mathematics. This unit may be optional on your BTEC but is it required by the Faculty. Please contact us for further information. Please note: there may be different requirements for the new RQF BTECs, please contact Admissions.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Cambridge Pre-U

D3, D3, D3 including Mathematics.
International Baccalaureate

35 points overall, with 18 points at higher level to include 5 points in higher level Mathematics.
Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)

H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2, including Mathematics.
Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers

AA at Advanced Higher level, including Mathematics, and AABBB at Higher level.
Other Qualifications

IT or Engineering Diploma: A (plus A or above in Mathematics or Computing in A-level).

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a foundation year. We offer a Studies in Science with a Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.

Typical Access to Leeds offer: ABB, including an A in Mathematics or Computing. Grade B (6) or above in GCSE Mathematics is required if no Mathematics A-level is taken.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each section. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

How to apply

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Applicant days

If you receive an offer to study with us, we’ll invite you to attend one of our applicant days. You’ll have the opportunity to meet our academic staff and students, explore the School and University and find out more about your course and what it’s like to be a student at Leeds.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

Fees

UK: See fees section below

International: £23,500 (per year)

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.

The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Scholarships are available.

Career opportunities

Studying Computer Science and Mathematics means you will be extremely employable, as you’ll benefit from exciting experiences in both sectors. This interdisciplinary course brings together diverse opportunities that allow you to develop your skills at the intersection of both areas, giving you an edge over other graduates. University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2021, High Fliers Research.

The course draws together solid mathematical foundations and their applications in computing and equips you with the skills of modelling and analysing real-world computational problems. It prepares you for a career working in science and technology and is an excellent basis for further research at Masters or PhD level, leaving you well-placed for a career in research and development. It also provides you with analytical, problem-solving and technical skills that are prized in a number of industrial sectors. Recent graduates from the School have found roles such as:

software developers and engineers
technology consulting analysts
research engineers
production project managers
business system analysts

They’ve gone to work for organisations like BAE Systems, Barclays, BT, Deloitte, Gazprom, IBM, IG, Microsoft, Toshiba Research Europe Ltd and Weaveability, among others. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll be able to apply your knowledge to real-life problems to make an impact in your sector.

Read our alumni profiles to find out more about where our students are working.

Careers support

You’ll have access to our dedicated Employability team, located in our Employability Suite, who will provide you with specialist face-to-face support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and year-in-industry placements, as well as graduate positions.

You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, ongoing support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers. The team also works closely with the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.

Find out more about careers support and employability.

Study abroad and work placements

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.

Find out more on the Study Abroad website.

With the help and support of our faculty Employability team, you can choose to undertake an industrial placement year at one of the 100+ companies that we work with. If you decide to undertake a placement year this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you will be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

Find out more about work placements.