(Full time) 2023 start
Mathematics MMath, BSc
Overview
Mathematics is key to the sciences and to a cross-section of business disciplines. The ongoing drive for economic efficiency, the increasing importance of technology and big data, and new emerging areas such as climate science all mean that mathematics continues to have a significant impact on the world. Demand for mathematics skills comes from all sectors – from business and technology to science, research and development and IT – and the career options available are varied and rewarding.
Studying Mathematics at Leeds will enable you to develop a range of core mathematical skills as well as enhancing your abilities in logical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making – all of which are highly valued by employers. You can also opt to explore topics as diverse as fluid mechanics, cosmology, topology, and numerical analysis, and you can choose to specialise in a particular area of interest or delve into several different areas. Choosing the MMath, BSc degree is particularly suitable if you wish to work closer to the frontiers of research, or to use mathematics at a higher level in your career.
Here at Leeds, we understand the importance mathematics has in everyday life, which is why we have one of the largest mathematics research departments in the UK and our courses are shaped by the latest thinking. This will equip you with the relevant knowledge, skills and experience you need to begin your career in this highly valued specialism.
Why study at Leeds:
- Our courses are shaped by our leading research in areas such as probability and financial mathematics, modern applied statistics, and analysis.
- Put theory into practice with access to modern facilities and computing equipment, complemented by social areas, communal problem-solving spaces and quiet study rooms.
- Develop your experience and boost your career prospects with our paid industrial placement opportunities or study abroad programmes.
- Benefit from our close links with organisations like Leeds Institute for Data Analytics, Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics.
- Benefit from our partnership with the Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and artificial intelligence.
- Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining our student society MathSoc where you can meet more of your peers, enjoy social events and join the MathSoc football or netball team.
Accreditation
Certain options can receive Royal Statistical Society accreditation and others can receive exemptions from the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries.
Course content
Our core Mathematics degree offers opportunities to study a broad range of topics within the discipline, spanning pure, applied and statistical mathematics. Our academic staff have extensive research interests, which is why we are able to offer a wide choice of up-to-date module options. You’ll graduate as a multi-skilled mathematician, perhaps with particular expertise in an area of interest or with the training necessary to work in a particular industry.
Discovery modules are available in all years of your degree, as long as you are taking enough credits of your own subject for that year.
Year 1
The first year of your course will introduce you to the main branches of mathematics. You’ll develop a solid understanding of these core areas, which will provide you with the necessary background knowledge you require to explore more advanced topics later in your programme. The wide range of subjects you’ll explore at this stage allows you to define what areas of mathematics really interest you.
Year 2
In your second year, you’ll have more freedom to choose and will be able to start specialising, with at least half (60 credits) of your programme being made up of optional modules. You’ll study compulsory modules in analysis, groups and vector spaces, vector calculus, computational mathematics, and linear differential equations and transforms. Module options are available to you in areas including mathematical logic, financial mathematics, statistical methods, survival analysis, and more.
It is also possible to transfer to the BSc version of the course until the end of your second year.
Year 3
In your third year, the majority of your study will be in advanced optional modules. You’ll have complete control over which modules you study, provided you meet the module’s prerequisites. You could specialise in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, or statistics, or choose modules across the spectrum of topics.
Year 4 (MMath)
In your fourth year, you’ll undertake your final year project, proposing a topic that you would like to explore for your project or choosing an assignment suggested by the School, and be allocated a supervisor. You’ll produce a final report and deliver a presentation about your work. You’ll also be studying advanced level modules, which you’ll choose from a large selection.
See examples of recent projects on our Research-based degrees webpage.
One-year optional work placement or study abroad
To advance your skill set and boost your experience, you can apply to take up an industrial placement which will extend your degree by 12 months. Alternatively, you can apply to spend your third year studying abroad at one of the many universities we’re in partnership with worldwide.
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.
Modules
Year 1
Compulsory modules
- Core Mathematics 50 credits
- Number Systems 15 credits
- Sets, Sequences and Series 15 credits
- Probability and Statistics I 10 credits
- Probability and Statistics II 10 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Introduction to Geometry 10 credits
- Interest Rates and Cashflow Modelling 15 credits
Year 2
Compulsory modules
- Real Analysis 15 credits
- Groups and Vector Spaces 15 credits
- Vector Calculus 15 credits
- Linear Differential Equations and Transforms 15 credits
- Computational Mathematics 10 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- History of Science in 10 Objects 20 credits
- Rings and Polynomials 10 credits
- Logic 10 credits
- Logic with Computation 15 credits
- Geometry of Curves and Surfaces 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics with Computation 15 credits
- The Mathematics of Music 10 credits
- Nonlinear Differential Equations 10 credits
- Financial Mathematics: Risk 10 credits
- Financial Mathematics: Markets 10 credits
- Numerical Analysis 10 credits
- Numerical Analysis with Computation 15 credits
- Fluid Dynamics 15 credits
- Introduction to Optimisation 10 credits
- Calculus of Variations 10 credits
- Statistical Methods 10 credits
- Statistical Modelling 10 credits
- Environmental Statistics 10 credits
- Introduction to Markov Processes 10 credits
- Survival Analysis 10 credits
- Mathematics into Schools 10 credits
- Maths at Work 10 credits
Year 3
Compulsory modules
- Project in Mathematics 20 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Mathematics Education 10 credits
- Introduction to Clinical Trials 15 credits
- Science Communication: History & Theory 20 credits
- Rings and Polynomials 10 credits
- Logic with Computation 15 credits
- Geometry of Curves and Surfaces 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics with Computation 15 credits
- Numerical Analysis with Computation 15 credits
- Calculus of Variations 10 credits
- Survival Analysis 10 credits
- Mathematics into Schools 10 credits
- Computational Mathematics 10 credits
- History of Mathematics 15 credits
- Calculus in the Complex Plane 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Graph Theory 15 credits
- Number Theory 15 credits
- Groups and Symmetry 15 credits
- Mixed Models 10 credits
- Proof and Computation 15 credits
- Differential Geometry 15 credits
- Models and Sets 15 credits
- Combinatorics 15 credits
- Coding Theory 15 credits
- Commutative Rings and Algebraic Geometry 15 credits
- Metric and Function Spaces 15 credits
- Hilbert Spaces and Fourier Analysis 15 credits
- Topology 15 credits
- Transformation Geometry 15 credits
- Hamiltonian Systems 15 credits
- Mathematical Methods 15 credits
- Linear and Non-Linear Waves 15 credits
- Hydrodynamic Stability 15 credits
- Quantum Mechanics 15 credits
- Dynamical Systems 15 credits
- Nonlinear Dynamics 15 credits
- Analytic Solutions of Partial Differential Equations 15 credits
- Introduction to Entropy in the Physical World 15 credits
- Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 15 credits
- Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics 15 credits
- Modern Numerical Methods 15 credits
- Discrete Systems and Integrability 15 credits
- Actuarial Mathematics 1 15 credits
- Actuarial Mathematics 2 15 credits
- Relativity and Cosmology 15 credits
- Mathematical Biology 15 credits
- Evolutionary Modelling 15 credits
- Fluid Dynamics 2 15 credits
- Linear Regression and Robustness 15 credits
- Statistical Theory 15 credits
- Stochastic Calculus for Finance 15 credits
- Multivariate Analysis 10 credits
- Time Series 10 credits
- Bayesian Statistics 10 credits
- Generalised Linear Models 10 credits
- Introduction to Clinical Trials 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Groups, Symmetry and Galois Theory 20 credits
- Mixed Models with Medical Applications 15 credits
- Advanced Proof and Computation 20 credits
- Advanced Differential Geometry 20 credits
- Advanced Models and Sets 20 credits
- Advanced Commutative Rings and Algebraic Geometry 20 credits
- Metric Spaces and Functional Analysis 20 credits
- Hilbert Spaces and Advanced Fourier Analysis 20 credits
- Models in Actuarial Science 15 credits
- Advanced Hamiltonian Systems 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Linear and Nonlinear Waves 20 credits
- Advanced Hydrodynamic Stability 20 credits
- Advanced Quantum Mechanics 20 credits
- Advanced Dynamical Systems 20 credits
- Advanced Nonlinear Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Entropy in the Physical World 20 credits
- Advanced Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Modern Numerical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Discrete Systems and Integrability 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Biology 20 credits
- Advanced Evolutionary Modelling 20 credits
- Linear Regression, Robustness and Smoothing 20 credits
- Advanced Stochastic Calculus and Applications to Finance 20 credits
- Multivariate and Cluster Analysis 15 credits
- Time Series and Spectral Analysis 15 credits
- Bayesian Statistics and Causality 15 credits
- Generalised Linear and Additive Models 15 credits
- Statistical Computing 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Cosmology 15 credits
- Molecular Simulation: Theory and Practice 15 credits
- Advanced Quantum Physics 15 credits
- Quantum Field Theory 15 credits
- Dynamics of Weather Systems 10 credits
- Inverse Theory 10 credits
- Inverse Theory 10 credits
Year 4
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Mathematics Education 10 credits
- Introduction to Clinical Trials 15 credits
- Science Communication: History & Theory 20 credits
- Rings and Polynomials 10 credits
- Logic with Computation 15 credits
- Geometry of Curves and Surfaces 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics with Computation 15 credits
- Numerical Analysis with Computation 15 credits
- Calculus of Variations 10 credits
- Survival Analysis 10 credits
- Mathematics into Schools 10 credits
- Computational Mathematics 10 credits
- History of Mathematics 15 credits
- Calculus in the Complex Plane 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Graph Theory 15 credits
- Number Theory 15 credits
- Groups and Symmetry 15 credits
- Mixed Models 10 credits
- Proof and Computation 15 credits
- Differential Geometry 15 credits
- Models and Sets 15 credits
- Combinatorics 15 credits
- Coding Theory 15 credits
- Commutative Rings and Algebraic Geometry 15 credits
- Metric and Function Spaces 15 credits
- Hilbert Spaces and Fourier Analysis 15 credits
- Topology 15 credits
- Transformation Geometry 15 credits
- Hamiltonian Systems 15 credits
- Mathematical Methods 15 credits
- Linear and Non-Linear Waves 15 credits
- Hydrodynamic Stability 15 credits
- Quantum Mechanics 15 credits
- Dynamical Systems 15 credits
- Nonlinear Dynamics 15 credits
- Analytic Solutions of Partial Differential Equations 15 credits
- Introduction to Entropy in the Physical World 15 credits
- Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 15 credits
- Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics 15 credits
- Numerical Methods 10 credits
- Modern Numerical Methods 15 credits
- Discrete Systems and Integrability 15 credits
- Actuarial Mathematics 1 15 credits
- Actuarial Mathematics 2 15 credits
- Relativity and Cosmology 15 credits
- Mathematical Biology 15 credits
- Evolutionary Modelling 15 credits
- Fluid Dynamics 2 15 credits
- Linear Regression and Robustness 15 credits
- Statistical Theory 15 credits
- Stochastic Calculus for Finance 15 credits
- Multivariate Analysis 10 credits
- Time Series 10 credits
- Bayesian Statistics 10 credits
- Generalised Linear Models 10 credits
- Assignment in Mathematics (30cr) 30 credits
- Assignment in Mathematics (40cr) 40 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Groups, Symmetry and Galois Theory 20 credits
- Mixed Models with Medical Applications 15 credits
- Advanced Proof and Computation 20 credits
- Advanced Differential Geometry 20 credits
- Advanced Models and Sets 20 credits
- Advanced Commutative Rings and Algebraic Geometry 20 credits
- Metric Spaces and Functional Analysis 20 credits
- Hilbert Spaces and Advanced Fourier Analysis 20 credits
- Models in Actuarial Science 15 credits
- Advanced Hamiltonian Systems 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Linear and Nonlinear Waves 20 credits
- Advanced Hydrodynamic Stability 20 credits
- Advanced Quantum Mechanics 20 credits
- Advanced Dynamical Systems 20 credits
- Advanced Nonlinear Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Entropy in the Physical World 20 credits
- Advanced Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Modern Numerical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Discrete Systems and Integrability 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Biology 20 credits
- Advanced Evolutionary Modelling 20 credits
- Linear Regression, Robustness and Smoothing 20 credits
- Advanced Stochastic Calculus and Applications to Finance 20 credits
- Multivariate and Cluster Analysis 15 credits
- Time Series and Spectral Analysis 15 credits
- Bayesian Statistics and Causality 15 credits
- Generalised Linear and Additive Models 15 credits
- Statistical Computing 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Cosmology 15 credits
- Molecular Simulation: Theory and Practice 15 credits
- Advanced Mechanics 15 credits
- Quantum Field Theory 15 credits
- General Relativity 15 credits
- Dynamics of Weather Systems 10 credits
- Inverse Theory 10 credits
- Inverse Theory 10 credits
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
You’ll be taught through lectures, tutorials, workshops and practical classes. You’ll enjoy extensive tutorial support and have freedom in your workload and options.
We offer a variety of welcoming spaces to study and socialise with your fellow students. There’s a café, social and group study areas, a library and a seminar room, as well as a Research Visitors Centre and a Mathematics Active Learning Lab.
Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for the School, your programme and modules.
You can also benefit from support to develop your academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, one-to-one appointments and drop-in sessions.
Watch our taster lectures to get a flavour of what it’s like to study at Leeds:
- Playing with Infinity ∞ Two Famous Infinite Series
- What Does it Mean to be Round?
- Fractals – What, How, Why?
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’re assessed through a range of methods, including formal exams and in-course assessment.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: AAA/A*AB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics.
AAA/A*AB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics, AAB/A*BB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics plus Further Mathematics, or AAB/A*BB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics, plus A in AS Further Mathematics.
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.
GCSE: GCSE: English Language at grade C (4) or above, or an appropriate English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.
Other course specific tests:Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), International Project Qualification (IPQ) and Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (ASCC): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers the EPQ, IPQ or ASCC we may make an offer of AAB/A*BB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics, plus A in EPQ/IPQ/Welsh Bacc ASCC.
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Access to HE Diploma
Normally only accepted in combination with grade A in A Level Mathematics or equivalent.
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BTEC
BTEC qualifications in relevant disciplines are considered in combination with other qualifications, including grade A in A-level mathematics, or equivalent -
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 M2 or D2 M1 M1 where the first grade quoted is in Mathematics OR D3 M1 M2 or D2 M2 M2 including Further Maths where the first grade quoted is Mathematics. -
International Baccalaureate
35 points overall with 17 at Higher Level including 6 in Higher Level Mathematics (Mathematics: Analytics and Approaches is preferred).
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Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 including Mathematics.
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
Suitable combinations of Scottish Higher and Advanced Highers are acceptable, though mathematics must be presented at Advanced Higher level.Typically AAAABB Including grade A in Advanced Higher Mathematics.
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Other Qualifications
We also welcome applications from students on the Northern Consortium UK International Foundation Year programme, the University of Leeds International Foundation Year, and other foundation years with a high mathematical content.
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 an alternative 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 alternative admissions.
Typical Access to Leeds offer: ABB including A in Mathematics and pass Access to Leeds OR A in Mathematics, B in Further Mathematics and C in a 3rd subject and pass Access to Leeds.
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.
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 any one component, or IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any one component, depending on other qualifications present. 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.
We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.
Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.
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.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2023
Fees
UK: £9,250
International: £24,750 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2022/23
For UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2022/23 the fee will be £9,250. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the government and may vary if policy changes.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students for 2023/24 have been agreed by the UK Government and will remain at the current fee level of £9,250. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the government and may vary if policy changes.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for international students for 2023/24 should be available on individual course pages from September 2022.
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 about additional costs.
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.
Career opportunities
Mathematical skills are highly valued in virtually all walks of life, which means that the employment opportunities for mathematics graduates are far-reaching, with the potential to take you all over the world.
University of Leeds students are among the top five most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2022, High Fliers Research, meaning our graduates are highly sought after.
Qualifying with a degree in Mathematics from Leeds will set you up with the core foundations needed to pursue an exciting career across a wide range of industries and sectors, including:
- Accountancy
- Insurance
- Banking and finance
- Asset management and investment
- Engineering
- Teaching
- Data analysis
- Law
- Consultancy
The numerical, analytical and problem solving skills you will develop, as well as your specialist subject knowledge and your ability to think logically, are highly valued by employers. This course also allows you to develop the transferable skills that employers seek.
Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our most recent graduates have obtained:
- Category Management Analyst, Accenture
- Business Intelligence Engineer, Amazon
- Financial Analyst, American Express
- Consultant Statistician, AstraZeneca
- Audit Associate, Deloitte
- Senior Credit Risk Analyst, HSBC
- Senior Actuary, KPMG
- Retail Analyst, Emma Bridgewater
- Statistician, Nestle
- Senior Actuarial Associate, PwC
- Risk Analyst, SkyBet
- Statistical Analyst, Office of National Statistics
Careers support
At Leeds we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. We will help you to access opportunities across the University and record your key achievements so you are able to articulate them clearly and confidently.
You will be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers.
You will also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world, whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.
From Europe to Asia, the USA to Australasia, we have many University partners worldwide you can apply to, spanning across some of the most popular destinations for students.
Find out more at the Study Abroad website.
Work placements
The graduate recruitment market is highly competitive so it’s important that you stand out. An industrial placement could be the opportunity you need to impress potential employers and improve your chances of securing the career you want.
Benefits of a work placement year:
- 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas
- All placements are salaried
- Build industry contacts within your chosen field
- Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
- Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
- Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry
- Improve your employability
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.
With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can find the right placement to suit you and your future career goals.
Here are some examples of placements our students have recently completed:
- Data Scientist, Department for Work & Pensions
- Cyber Crime Researcher, Department for Work & Pensions
- Risk Analyst - Infrastructure/ Strategy, Lloyds Banking Group
- Operations Analyst, Tracsis Rail Consultancy
- Risk analyst, Lloyds Banking Group
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.