Mathematics & StatisticsWhy Mathematics & Statistics?

Mathematics & statistics are living subjects full of exciting developments and challenging problems. As a student in the Department of Mathematics & Statistics, you'll spend three to five years learning about a fascinating and rapidly-changing discipline. What would become increasingly apparent as your studies progressed is the central and unique position held by mathematics and statistics in the worlds of:

  • science
  • engineering
  • information technology
  • business
  • commerce and industry

Mathematics & statistics provide a common language underpinning all of these fields. Many of the most important recent developments in mathematics & statistics have taken place in response to the needs of these areas.

Career opportunities

A mathematically-based university degree course will equip you with expertise which would be much sought after and could be used over a broad spectrum of careers.

A mathematical training will allow you to adapt to changing environments in the course of your career. Adaptability is just one attribute associated with mathematicians and statisticians. Others such as orderliness and precision, logical thinking and insight are highly valued by potential employers.

Our graduates enter industries such as manufacturing, the actuarial, accountancy and banking professions, commerce and government, consultancy and education.

Many go on to become investment analysts, numerical analysts, statisticians, actuaries, managers and teachers.

Why Strathclyde?

Mathematics & statistics have always been taught at Strathclyde with an eye firmly fixed on their practical applications. This is true both for those students whose interests lie mainly in some other area of science or engineering and for those studying mathematics and statistics in their own right.

The subject matter of our courses is constantly updated to meet the challenges and needs of other disciplines, brought about by the advance of technology.

A friendly place

Strathclyde has a reputation of being a friendly place to learn mathematics and statistics. This is one of the key features often mentioned when our teaching is assessed by external organisations, and by our external examiners and visitors to the department. We're interested in the all-round welfare of our students and want them to enjoy their years with us.

Staff/student activities

Each of our students is allocated an Academic Counsellor. The counsellor deals with the general welfare of the student and should be the first port of call if any problems arise, or if advice is needed on any matter. Personal matters are treated in strict confidence. The University also has a Student Advisory Service which provides a wide range of assistance to students.

Formal business of interest to both staff and students is conducted by means of a student-staff liaison committee. This body serves as a channel for information on matters such as possible changes to courses and allows students to raise any relevant topics and to express considered opinions. However, many matters can be dealt with less formally and students are encouraged to approach relevant members of staff where appropriate.

The Andersonian Mathematical Society acts as a focus for students in the department. The society, which is run by students, organises various events of a mathematical, social or sporting nature, in which staff also participate.

There's a relaxed and happy atmosphere in the department with an excellent rapport between staff and students. This is enhanced by a weekend at 'The Burn' in Edzell when staff and third and fourth year students take part in extra-curricular mathematical and recreational activities in beautiful surroundings.

We're confident that, armed with a mathematics-based degree from Strathclyde, you will be well prepared to play an important role in the modern world.