BSc Hons Mathematics & Computer Science

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Key facts

  • UCAS Code: GG14
  • Accreditation: Institute of Mathematics & its Applications
  • Second year entry: available

    Part-time study: available

Study with us

  • learn how to apply mathematics to solve practical problems using specialist software
  • gain knowledge in programming languages, artificial intelligence, mathematical analysis, discrete mathematics, and web applications development
  • develop skills to tackle problems in a business setting
  • opportunity to undertake industry-relevant projects
  • option to carry out your Honours project in either subject
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Why this course?

Mathematics is everywhere: weather forecasting, cash machines, secure websites, electronic games, liquid crystal displays, statistical data analysis.

We use statistics to explore and explain the world in which we live, such as in opinion polls and market research. However, it’s also important for manufacturing and testing many products, in particular showing that modern drugs are safe in treating humans.

Our course focuses on applying mathematics to solving practical problems.

Computers are an essential part of modern business and mathematics must often be formulated before the computer can be of use.

This degree will give you the skills to tackle problems in a business environment.

THE Awards 2019: UK University of the Year Winner

What you’ll study

This is a four-year joint Honours programme and taught in partnership with the Department of Computer & Information Sciences.

Each year contains compulsory modules, and some years contain either optional modules and/or elective modules.

Years 1 & 2

Each area is studied equally. In addition to core mathematical methods, you’ll study calculus, geometry, applied analysis, mechanics, linear algebra and probability and statistics. Computer Science modules include programming, logic and information systems.

Years 3 & 4

This flexible joint degree allows you to focus on up to a number of modules in Mathematics or Computer Science.

Your final year project may be carried out in either subject. Honours graduates with enough computing modules may seek accreditation from the British Computer Society.

Study abroad

You'll have the opportunity to spend time studying abroad, normally in the third year of the course. We have links with European and non-European universities, which include:

  • University of Limerick, Republic of Ireland
  • Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
  • Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
  • University of Toronto, Canada
  • Queen's University at Kingston, Canada
  • George Institute of Technology, USA
  • Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
  • University of Otago, New Zealand
  • Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

The Department of Mathematics & Statistics

At the heart of the Department of Mathematics & Statistics is the University’s aim of developing useful learning. Our research emphasises how mathematics and statistics can be applied in the real world and have societal impact. We're an applied department with many links to industry and government, bridging the gap between academia and real life. Many of the academic staff hold joint appointments with, or are funded by, other organisations, such as:

  • APHA
  • Public Health and Intelligence (Health Protection Scotland)
  • NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
  • the Marine Alliance for Science and Technology Scotland (MASTS)
Explore the department
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Course content

Compulsory modules

Mathematics

Mathematical Foundations (20 credits)

This covers the basic concepts and standard methods of mathematical notation and proof; functions; complex numbers and variables; solution of equations; resolution of inequalities; sequences and series.

Calculus 1 (20 credits)

This introduces the fundamental concepts of calculus, and develops some of their applications including basic ordinary differential equations.

Essential Statistics (10 credits)

This module will present some basic ideas and techniques of statistics while introducing some essential study skills.

Algebra & Geometry (10 credits)

An introductory treatment of linear algebra and geometry.

Computer Science

Machines, Languages & Computation (20 credits)

This module will help you achieve a broad knowledge of the essence of computation and computational systems, as embodied by the notions of computable functions, formal languages and recursion, logic and computability and abstract machines.

Information & Information Systems (20 credits)

This module will help you understand a broad knowledge of information systems and how information is created, used and disseminated within an information society.

Programming Foundations (20 credits)

This module will provide you with a solid foundation in the principles of computer programming. On completing this module you should have the necessary skills to be able to design, build and test a small system in a high-level language (Java in the current incarnation of the module).

Compulsory modules

Mathematics

Linear Algebra & Differential Equations (20 credits)

This module will introduce you to the basic ideas of linear algebra, such as matrices and determinants, vector spaces, bases, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. You'll study various standard methods for solving ordinary differential equations and understand their relevance.

Advanced Calculus (20 credits)

This module will present basic ideas, techniques and results for calculus of two and three variables, along with differentiation and integration over curves, surfaces and volumes of both scalar and vector fields.

Applicable Analysis 1 (20 credits)

This module will give a rigorous treatment of convergence of sequences and infinite series of real numbers and of continuity, differentiability and integrability of functions of a real variable. It will illustrate the importance of these concepts in the analysis of problems arising in applications.

Computer Science

Advanced Programming (20 credits)

This module will further your skills in object-oriented programming, provide knowledge of key abstract data types along with their implementation and usage, and provide experience in the development of larger scale software and an introduction to design.

Your main goal is to be able to develop larger programs with specialised data structures and utilising APIs from a specification, and be able to ensure and show how the system they developed matches the specification.

Logic & Algorithms (20 credits)

This module will equip you with the tools to model and measure computation. To build on the module Machines, Languages and Computation, and develop further understanding of the mathematical foundations of computation. To foster an analytical and empirical appreciation of the behaviour of algorithms and the use of abstract data types.

User & Data Modelling (20 credits)

This module will provide you with a critical appreciation and understanding of how to model user activities and the data to support them, together with how to implement systems and databases to support user activities.

In Year 3 you'll study compulsory and optional modules totalling 120 credits.

Mathematics

Compulsory modules

Linear Algebra (20 credits)

In this module we'll introduce basic algebraic structures, with particular emphasis on those pertaining to finite dimensional linear spaces and deepen your understanding of linear mappings. We'll also provide an introduction to inner product spaces and bilinear forms.

Differential Equations (20 credits)

In this module we’ll introduce you to analytical methods for solving ordinary and partial differential equations, so you'll develop an understanding along with technical skills in this area.

Optional modules

Applicable Analysis 2 (20 credits)

In this module you will be introduced to the basic theory and applications of:

  • metric spaces
  • normed vector spaces and Banach spaces
  • inner product spaces and Hilbert spaces
  • bounded linear operators on normed linear spaces

Numerical Analysis (20 credits)

This module will motivate the need for numerical algorithms to approximate the solution of problems that can’t be solved with pen and paper. You’ll develop your skills in performing detailed analysis of the performance of numerical methods and will continue to develop your skills in the implementation of numerical algorithms using R.

Computer Science

Compulsory module

Building Software Systems (20 credits)

This module will extend and deepen your understanding of the analysis, design and implementation of software systems; to provide further experience in the activity of designing and implementing non-trivial systems; and to enable you to demonstrate practical competence in a group environment.

Your goal is the development in a group setting of significant systems from scratch aiming not just at any solution but a good solution, and to be introduced to more general Software Engineering topics.

Optional modules

Foundations of Artificial Intelligence (20 credits)

This module will help to give you a broad appreciation of the scale and nature of the problems within Artificial Intelligence and to a detailed understanding of some of the fundamental techniques used to address those problems.

Programming Language Definition & Implementation (20 credits)

The module will provide familiarisation with the definition of programming language syntax and semantics, and the translation of these definitions into an implementation of a programming language.

Web Applications Development (20 credits)

This module will give you an understanding of the technologies used in the development of N-tier Internet-based applications.

Functional Programming (20 credits)

The module aims to provide you with skills in basic functional programming and experience in integrated deployment of those skills.

Mobile App Development (20 credits)

The module will provide you with a good understanding of the issues in developing for mobile environments, approaches to handling these issues and skills in developing for a widespread mobile platform.

In Year 4 you'll study compulsory and optional modules totalling 120 credits.

Compulsory module

You'll choose between a Mathematics & Statistics project and a Computer Science project.

Communicating Mathematics & Statistics (20 credits)

This module provides you with experience of the skills required to undertake project work, and to communicate the findings in written and oral form using a variety of sources, such as books, journals and the internet. You will undertake an individual research project, researching a mathematical or statistical topic and writing a short report on it.

or

Individual Project (40 credits)

This module will allow you to demonstrate practical and documentary competence. You'll also be expected to give a demonstration of your work.

Optional modules

Mathematics

Modelling & Simulation with Applications to Financial Derivatives (20 credits)

In this module you'll get an introduction to ideas in mathematics and statistics that can be used to model real systems, with an emphasis on the valuation of financial derivatives. This module places equal emphasis on deterministic analysis (calculus, differential equations) and stochastic analysis (Brownian motion, birth and death processes). In both cases, in addition to theoretical analysis, appropriate computational algorithms are introduced.

The first half of the module introduces general modelling and simulation tools, and the second half focuses on the specific application of valuing financial derivatives, including the celebrated Black-Scholes theory.

Applicable Analysis 3 (20 credits)

This module will present the main results in Functional Analysis. You will also be introduced to linear operators on Banach and Hilbert spaces and study applications to integral and differential equations.

Statistical Modelling & Analysis (20 credits)

You will be provided with a range of applied statistical techniques that can be used in professional life. This module provides you with the fundamental principles of statistical modelling through experimental design and multivariate analysis.

Fluids & Waves (20 credits)

In this module you'll be introduced to the theory of Newtonian fluids and its application to flow problems and the dynamics of waves on water and in other contexts.

Finite Element Methods for Boundary Value Problems & Approximation (20 credits)

In this module you'll be presented with the basic theory and practice of finite element methods and polynomial and piecewise polynomial approximation theory.

Applied Statistics in Society (20 credits)

In this module you'll be introduced to a range of modern statistical methods and practices used in industry, commerce and research, and you will develop skills in your application and presentation.

Mathematical Introduction to Networks (20 credits)

This module will demonstrate the central role network theory plays in mathematical modelling. It'll also show the intimate connection between linear algebra and graph theory and how to use this connection to develop a sound theoretical understanding of network theory. Finally, it'll apply this theory as a tool for revealing structure in networks.

Mathematical Biology & Marine Population Modelling (20 credits)

In this module, you'll learn the application of mathematical models to a variety of problems in biology, medicine, and ecology. The module will show:

  • the application of ordinary differential equations to simple biological and medical problems
  • the use of mathematical modelling in biochemical reactions
  • the application of partial differential equations in describing spatial processes such as cancer growth and pattern formation in embryonic development
  • the use of delay-differential equations in physiological processes.

The marine population modelling element will introduce the use of difference models to represent population processes through applications to fisheries, and the use of coupled ODE system to represent ecosystems. Practical work will include example class case studies that will explore a real-world application of an ecosystem model.

Medical Statistics (20 credits)

This module will cover the application of classical statistical methods to data collected for health care research. There will be an emphasis on the use of real data and the interpretation of statistical analyses in the context of the research hypothesis under investigation. Topics covered will include:

  • survival analysis
  • experimental design and sampling
  • categorical data analysis
  • clinical measurement

Computer Science

Advanced Functional Programming (20 credits)

This module will allow you to understand the mathematical structures arising in advanced functional programs as mediated by the following concepts: type classes and constructor classes, monoids, functors, applicative functors, monads and monad transformers, arrows, comonads, inductive and coinductive types, recursion patterns including folds and unfolds, continuations, and generalised algebraic data types.

Software Architecture & Design (20 credits)

This module aims to:

  • enable you to understand the challenges of advanced software design and the issues associated with large-scale software architectures, frameworks, patterns and components
  • develop your understanding of the tools and techniques that may be used for the automatic analysis and evaluation of software

Theory of Computation (20 credits)

Building on the previous material in software development, you'll extend and formalise your abilities in the area of computational complexity.

Information Access & Mining (20 credits)

This module will allow you to understand the fundamentals of information access and information mining. The module will cover a range of techniques for extracting information from textual and non-textual resources, modelling the information content of resources, detecting patterns within information resources and making use of these patterns.

Learning & teaching

Teaching methods include lectures (using a variety of media, including electronic presentations and computer demonstrations), tutorials, problems classes, computer laboratories, coursework and projects.

These methods will allow you to gain knowledge, understand and develop intellectual thinking and learn practical and transferable skills.

On completion of the BSc Mathematics & Computer Science you’ll be able to:

  • demonstrate subject knowledge
  • show an understanding of the main mathematical theories as well as one or more specialised areas
  • demonstrate an understanding of computer science
  • demonstrate skills in calculation and use of the knowledge learned
  • develop and evaluate logical arguments, presenting them and their conclusions clearly and accurately
  • demonstrate a range of problem-solving skills e.g. abstracting the essentials of problems, formulating them mathematically and finding solutions by appropriate methods using appropriate software
  • undertake a critical analysis of data and draw conclusions from it
  • demonstrate a range of general skills including IT competency

Assessment

In Mathematics & Statistics, knowledge, understanding and subject-specific skills are assessed by coursework, assignment, reports, presentations and written examinations.

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Entry requirements

Required subjects are shown in brackets.

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Highers

Standard entry requirements*:

Year 1 entry: AABB/ABBBC

(Maths A, Advanced Higher Maths recommended)

Minimum entry requirements**:

BBBB (including Maths at B and 70% in Strathclyde Summer School Mathematics)

or

ABBB (including Maths A)

Advanced Highers

Year 2 entry: AB

(Maths A, Computing Science B)

A Levels

Standard entry requirements*:

Year 1 entry: BBB

(Maths)

Year 2 entry: ABB

(Maths A, Computer Science B)

International Baccalaureate

Standard entry requirements*:

Year 1 entry: 30

(Mathematics HL5)

Year 2 entry: 32

(Mathematics HL6, Computer Science HL5 including option D: Object-oriented Programming, in Java)

HNC/HND

Year 1 entry: relevant HNC with strong mathematical content, B in Graded Unit, plus Higher Maths at A or 70% in Strathclyde Summer School Mathematics

International students

View the entry requirements for your country.

Deferred entry

Accepted

*Standard entry requirements

Offers are made in accordance with specified entry requirements although admission to undergraduate programmes is considered on a competitive basis and entry requirements stated are normally the minimum level required for entry.

Whilst offers are made primarily on the basis of an applicant meeting or exceeding the stated entry criteria, admission to the University is granted on the basis of merit, and the potential to succeed. As such, a range of information is considered in determining suitability.

In exceptional cases, where an applicant does not meet the competitive entry standard, evidence may be sought in the personal statement or reference to account for performance which was affected by exceptional circumstances, and which in the view of the judgement of the selector would give confidence that the applicant is capable of completing the programme of study successfully.

**Minimum entry requirements

Find out if you can benefit from this type of offer.

Contextual Admissions for Widening Access

We want to increase opportunities for people from every background.

Strathclyde selects our students based on merit, potential, and the ability to benefit from the education we offer. We look for more than just your grades. We consider the circumstances of your education and will make lower offers to certain applicants as a result.

Find out if you can benefit from this type of offer.

University preparation programme for international students

We offer international students (non-UK/Ireland) who do not meet the academic entry requirements for an undergraduate degree at Strathclyde the option of completing an Undergraduate Foundation Programme in Business and Social Sciences at the University of Strathclyde International Study Centre. ​

Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Strathclyde.

International students

We've a thriving international community with students coming here to study from over 140 countries across the world. Find out all you need to know about studying in Glasgow at Strathclyde and hear from students about their experiences.

Visit our international students' section

Chat to a student ambassador

If you want to know more about what it’s like to be a Science student at the University of Strathclyde, a selection of our current students are here to help!

Our Unibuddy ambassadors can answer all the questions you might have about courses and studying at Strathclyde, along with offering insight into their experiences of life in Glasgow and Scotland.

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Fees & funding

All fees quoted are for full-time courses and per academic year unless stated otherwise.

Fees may be subject to updates to maintain accuracy. Tuition fees will be notified in your offer letter.

All fees are in £ sterling, unless otherwise stated, and may be subject to revision.

Annual revision of fees

Students on programmes of study of more than one year (or studying standalone modules) should be aware that the majority of fees will increase annually. The University will take a range of factors into account, including, but not limited to, UK inflation, changes in delivery costs and changes in Scottish and/or UK Government funding. Changes in fees will be published on the University website in October each year for the following year of study and any annual increase will be capped at a maximum of 10% per year.

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Scotland

To be confirmed.

Fees for students who meet the relevant residence requirements in Scotland are subject to confirmation by the Scottish Funding Council. Scottish undergraduate students undertaking an exchange for a semester/year will continue to pay their normal tuition fees at Strathclyde and will not be charged fees by the overseas institution.

England, Wales & Northern Ireland

To be confirmed subject to confirmation by the UK government.

Republic of Ireland

If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status. For more information and advice on tuition fee status, you can visit the UKCISA - International student advice and guidance - Scotland: fee status webpage. Find out more about the University of Strathclyde's fee assessments process.

International

£21,550

Additional costs

International students

International students may have associated visa and immigration costs. Please see student visa guidance for more information.

Mathematics 

Course materials & costs 

Class materials (lecture notes and exercise sheets) for the majority of Mathematics & Statistics classes are available free to download. For some classes, students may need access to a textbook. Textbook costs are typically in the £20 to £60 price range. These prices are dependent on format (e-book, soft or hardback) and whether bought new or second hand.  

PVG scheme (Protection of Vulnerable Groups)

Third-year Maths and Teaching students will need to pay for the full price of a PVG membership scheme.

Computer Science 

Course materials & costs 

There is no charge for lecture notes or equipment. Students are supplied with 500 free print units - but must purchase any additional units. However, most coursework is submitted electronically.  

Books are recommended, but not a compulsory purchase. The department ensures that the University library is stocked with copies of textbooks. 

Available scholarships

Take a look at our scholarships search for funding opportunities.

Please note: All fees shown are annual and may be subject to an increase each year. Find out more about fees.

How can I fund my studies?

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Students from Scotland

Fees for students who meet the relevant residence requirements in Scotland, you may be able to apply to the Student Award Agency Scotland (SAAS) to have your tuition fees paid by the Scottish government. Scottish students may also be eligible for a bursary and loan to help cover living costs while at University.

For more information on funding your studies have a look at our University Funding page.

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Students from England, Wales & Northern Ireland

We have a generous package of bursaries on offer for students from England, Northern Ireland and Wales:

You don’t need to make a separate application for these. When your place is confirmed at Strathclyde, we’ll assess your eligibility. Take a look at our scholarships search for funding opportunities.

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International Students

We have a number of scholarships available to international students. Take a look at our scholarship search to find out more.

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Careers

Graduates in Mathematics & Computer Science can go into a wide range of jobs from the manufacturing and service industries, the actuarial, accountancy and banking professions, commerce and government, consultancy and education.

Graduates in Mathematics & Computer Science are well prepared for careers involving theoretical computer science or programming of advanced scientific problems including cryptography.

Chris' graduate story

In the video below, Computer Science graduate Chris Lawlor explains how a final-year project helped him start his own business:

Neal McCulloch, Maths student
Lecturers and tutors are always on hand to help if you have any problems, people are really friendly which makes studying enjoyable and the facilities available to students are phenomenal.
Neal McCulloch
Mathematics student
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Start date:

Mathematics & Computer Science (1 year entry)

Start date:

Mathematics & Computer Science (2 year entry)

Start date:

Mathematics & Computer Science (1 year entry)

Start date:

Mathematics & Computer Science (2 year entry)

Start date: Sep 2025

Mathematics & Computer Science (1 year entry)

full-time
Start date: Sep 2025

UCAS Applications

Apply through UCAS if you are a UK applicant. International applicants may apply through UCAS if they are applying to more than one UK University.

Apply now

Direct Applications

Our Direct applications service is for international applicants who wish to apply to the University of Strathclyde at this time.

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Start date: Sep 2025

Mathematics & Computer Science (2 year entry)

full-time
Start date: Sep 2025

UCAS Applications

Apply through UCAS if you are a UK applicant. International applicants may apply through UCAS if they are applying to more than one UK University.

Apply now

Direct Applications

Our Direct applications service is for international applicants who wish to apply to the University of Strathclyde at this time.

Apply now

Start date:

Mathematics & Computer Science (1 year entry)

Start date:

Mathematics & Computer Science (2 year entry)

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Contact us

Mathematics & Statistics

Telephone: +44 (0)141 548 3804

Email: mathstat-ugselector@strath.ac.uk

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