About this course
Study topics from modern cryptography (the art of writing or solving codes) to modelling black holes, and complex financial problems. You'll learn abstract and structured thinking skills while studying mathematics, statistics and operational research. Employers will look for your skills in finance, industry, education and you could move into a career working on scientific and social challenges.
This mathematics BSc course is very broad, allowing you to explore topics like abstract algebra, black holes and relativity, networks, and machine learning.
As part of this degree you’ll:
- develop your abilities in problem-solving, calculation and logical argument
- be able to specialise in pure or applied mathematics or statistics, or follow a broad path across these topics and more
- use our student centre, a dedicated learning and social space for maths student
- use mathematical and computational packages such as Python and the statistics package 'R'
You’ll be taught through a combination of lectures and workshops, by leading researchers in fields, such as group theory, the mathematics of nature and experimental design.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
What it's like to study Mathematics at Southampton
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202526
A-levels
AAA or AABB including Mathematics (grade A)
A-levels additional information
If a STEP paper is taken alongside three A-levels then the offer will be AAB including Mathematics (grade A). We accept either of the two STEP papers. For more details about STEP see the Admissions Testing Service Website.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAB including Mathematics (grade A) and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 36 points overall with 18 at Higher Level, including 6 points from Higher Level Mathematics (Preferred Mathematics module is Analysis and Approaches, but Applications and Interpretation also considered)
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus AA from two A levels including Mathematics
DD in the BTEC National Diploma plus A in A level Mathematics
We do not accept BTEC National Extended Diploma unless A level Mathematics is taken alongside this qualification. If it has, the offer would be DDD plus A in A level Mathematics.
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
Applicants who have not studied mathematics at A-level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
QCF BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AA from two A levels including Mathematics.
DD in the BTEC Diploma plus A in A level Mathematics.
We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma unless A level Mathematics is taken alongside this qualification. If it has, the offer would be DDD plus A in A level Mathematics.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, all of which must be at Distinction
Access to HE additional information
Mathematics must be studied to level 3, A-level standard to be considered
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 including Mathematics at H2
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1, A1, A1, A1, A1, A1 including Mathematics
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 D3 in three Principal subjects including Mathematics
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAA from 3 A levels including Mathematics or AA from two A levels including Mathematics and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
T-Level
There are no T levels accepted for this programme.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
- our Ignite your Journey scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
- skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Foundation year for engineering, physics, maths and geophysics
A foundation year will give you the skills and knowledge to progress to this course if you don't have the right qualifications for direct entry.
It could be the right option if you:
- have A levels, or equivalent international qualifications, in subjects other than the ones needed for direct entry
- have international qualifications in relevant subjects but not at A level equivalent
- have a BTEC Extended Diploma in a relevant subject
- are studying an Access course in a relevant subject
- are a mature student with relevant experience or study
You'll also need to show that you have strong maths skills.
Find full details on our Engineering, Maths, Physics, Geophysics Foundation Year page.
For Academic year 202425
A-levels
AAA or AABB including Mathematics (grade A)
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
If an additional Mathematics qualification (STEP grade 2/MAT/TMUA) is taken alongside three A-levels then the offer will be AAB including Mathematics (grade A). We accept any of the three STEP papers. For more details about the STEP and TMUA papers see the Admissions Testing Service Website.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAB including Mathematics (grade A) and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme. The contextual offer for this programme is AAB including A in Maths.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 36 points overall with 18 at Higher Level, including 6 points from Higher Level Mathematics (Preferred Mathematics module is Analysis and Approaches, but Applications and Interpretation also considered)
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus AA from two A levels including Mathematics
DD in the BTEC National Diploma plus A in A level Mathematics
We do not accept BTEC National Extended Diploma unless A level Mathematics is taken alongside this qualification. If it has, the offer would be DDD plus A in A level Mathematics.
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
Applicants who have not studied mathematics at A-level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
QCF BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AA from two A levels including Mathematics.
DD in the BTEC Diploma plus A in A level Mathematics.
We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma unless A level Mathematics is taken alongside this qualification. If it has, the offer would be DDD plus A in A level Mathematics.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, all of which must be at Distinction
Access to HE additional information
Mathematics must be studied to level 3, A-level standard to be considered
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 including Mathematics at H2
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1, A1, A1, A1, A1, A1 including Mathematics
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 D3 in three Principal subjects including Mathematics
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAA from 3 A levels including Mathematics or AA from two A levels including Mathematics and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
T-Level
There are no T levels accepted for this programme.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
- our Ignite your Journey scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
- skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Foundation year for engineering, physics, maths and geophysics
A foundation year will give you the skills and knowledge to progress to this course if you don't have the right qualifications for direct entry.
It could be the right option if you:
- have A levels, or equivalent international qualifications, in subjects other than the ones needed for direct entry
- have international qualifications in relevant subjects but not at A level equivalent
- have a BTEC Extended Diploma in a relevant subject
- are studying an Access course in a relevant subject
- are a mature student with relevant experience or study
You'll also need to show that you have strong maths skills.
Find full details on our Engineering, Maths, Physics, Geophysics Foundation Year page.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
This course will develop your mathematical knowledge and problem-solving skills to a high level. You'll have the freedom to pursue specialist interests such as applied mathematics, or to broaden your area of study. For example, you could choose to study management topics or language modules,
You don't need to select your modules when you apply. Your academic tutor will help you to customise your course.
Year 1 overview
You'll cover key topics like linear algebra and calculus. While calculus may already be familiar, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the underlying ideas, before moving on to extend these ideas into higher dimensions. Linear algebra begins with the algebra of vectors and matrices, before delving into more rigorous and abstract concepts, such as groups and fields.
You'll also get a taste of different areas of mathematics, such as:
- number theory
- probability and statistics
- dynamics
- operational research
This allows you to gain experience, before deciding what to do next.
Year 2 overview
Key modules continue to build your foundational knowledge. These include the rigour of analysis and the techniques of partial differential equations and Fourier theory.
You'll also get a choice of modules to allow you to pursue a specific interest.
Options include:
- Group Theory: this is one of the great simplifying and unifying ideas in modern mathematics. Group theory encodes symmetries algebraically.
- Fluid Dynamics: you’ll apply the techniques you’ve learned from complex numbers and multivariable calculus to model airflow over a wing or water flow through a propeller.
You can also choose options from financial mathematics. These cover how securities are evaluated, and how investment projects are appraised. You could learn about modelling of random processes though Markov chains and stochastic differential equations.
Year 3 overview
From pure mathematics you could study:
- Galois theory
- number theory
- infinite dimensional spaces
- algebraic invariants of a shape
Or, you could apply your statistical knowledge to the design of experiments or to simulating statistical events. In applied mathematics you could:
- model black holes and cosmology
- model epidemics and biochemical reactions
- learn about Laplace and Fourier transforms
- study solutions of the Navier-Stokes equation
You could also choose from topics in optimisation, actuarial mathematics or modern applications of mathematics such as machine learning and social networks.
You’ll also carry out a project, choosing from:
- Maths and your Future: working in small teams to analyse data and apply your mathematical learning to a problem that has been raised by a local or national employer.
- Mathematical Investigation and Communication: learning independently about new areas of mathematics or applying your skills of modelling and computation.
- Communicating and Teaching Mathematics: acting as an ambassador for mathematics in schools and gaining classroom experience.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Calculus
This module provides a bridge between A-level mathematics and university mathematics. Some of the material will be similar to that in A-level Maths and Further Maths but will be treated in more depth, and some of the material will be new. Topics of study ...
Dynamics and Relativity
This module is designed to introduce students to central elements of applied mathematics. It assumes no prior knowledge of particular applications, but assumes a working understanding of basic vector algebra and simple differential equations. The module p...
First Year Mathematics Workshop
Introduction to Probability and Statistics
The theory and methods of Statistics play an important role in all walks of life, society, medicine and industry. They enable important understanding to be gained and informed decisions to be made, about a population by examining only a small random sampl...
Linear Algebra I
Linear maps on vector spaces are the basis for a large area of mathematics, in particular linear equations and linear differential equations, which form the basic language of the physical sciences. This module restricts itself to the vector space R^n to ...
Linear Algebra II
Building on the intuitive understanding and calculation techniques from Linear Algebra I, this module introduces the concepts of vector spaces and linear maps in an abstract, axiomatic way. In particular, matrices are revisited as the representation of a ...
Multivariable Calculus
This module introduces the main ideas and techniques of differential and integral calculus of functions of two or more variables. One of the pre-requisites for MATH2003, MATH2011, MATH2014, MATH3033, MATH2038, MATH2039, MATH2045 and MATH2040
Number Theory
The aim of this module is to introduce students to some of the basic ideas of number theory, and to use this as a context in which to discuss the development of mathematics through examples, conjectures, theorems, proofs and applications. The module will ...
Operational Research I and Mathematical Computing
The module has two parts. The first part provides an introduction to the topic of operational research (OR). The key role of using models in OR to obtain solutions of practical problems arising in a variety of contexts is emphasised. Some classical pro...
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
Analysis
The notion of limit and convergence are two key ideas on which rest most of modern Analysis. This module aims to present these notions building on the experience gained by students in first year Calculus module. The context of our study is: limits and co...
Partial Differential Equations
Differential equations occupy a central role in mathematics because they allow us to describe a wide variety of real-world systems. The module will aim to stress the importance of both theory and applications of differential equations. The module begin...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
Algorithms
Algorithms are systematic methods for solving mathematical problems, such as sorting numbers in ascending order, finding the cheapest way to ship goods on the road network or finding the shortest path in a graph. They can be regarded as practical applicat...
Fields and Fluids
Over the last four hundred years progress in understanding the physical world (theoretical physics) has gone hand in hand with progress in the mathematical sciences, so much so that the terms applied mathematics and theoretical physics have come to be alm...
Financial Mathematics
This module provides a solid mathematical introduction to the subject of Compound Interest Theory and its application to the analysis of a wide variety of complex financial problems, including those associated with mortgage and commercial loans, the valua...
Geometry and Topology
Geometry has grown out of efforts to understand the world around us, and has been a central part of mathematics from the ancient times to the present. Topology has been designed to describe, quantify, and compare shapes of complex objects. Together, geome...
Group Theory
Group theory is one of the great simplifying and unifying ideas in modern mathematics. It was introduced in order to understand the solutions to polynomial equations, but only in the last one hundred years has its full significance, as a mathematical for...
Operational Research II
A variety of OR techniques are covered in lectures and assessed by examination. Workshops develop skills with computer modelling software (discrete-event simulation and linear programming). Other skills that are developed within the module are group w...
Statistical Distribution Theory
Functions of one and several random variables are considered such as sums, differences, products and ratios. The central limit theorem is proved and the probability density functions are derived of those sampling distributions linked to the normal distrib...
Statistical Modelling I
Simple linear regression is developed for one explanatory variable using the principle of least squares. The extension to two explanatory variables raises the issue of whether both variables are needed for a well-fitting model, or whether one is sufficien...
Stochastic Processes
The module will introduce the basic ideas in modelling, solving and simulating stochastic processes.
Vector Calculus and Complex Variable
In the first part of this module we build on multivariate calculus studied in the first year and extend it to the calculus of scalar and vector functions of several variables. Line, surface and volume integrals are considered and a number of theorems inv...
Year 3 modules
You must study the following module in year 3:
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Actuarial Mathematics I
This subject arises through a fusion of compound interest theory with probability theory, and provides the mathematical framework necessary for analysing such contracts, which are essentially long term financial transactions in which the various cash flow...
Actuarial Mathematics II
Synopsis: The module extends the mathematical framework developed in MATH3063 in order to enable modelling of long term financial transactions where the various cash flows are contingent on the death or survival of several lives, or where there are sever...
Advanced Fluid Dynamics
Modelling fluid flow requires us first to extend vector calculus to include volumes that change with time. This will allow us to rephrase Newton’s second law of motion, that the force is equal to the time derivative of the linear momentum, in a way that ...
Advanced Partial Differential Equations
Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) occur frequently in many areas of mathematics. This module extends earlier work on PDEs by presenting a variety of more advanced solution techniques together with some of the underlying theory.
Algebraic Topology
Topology is concerned with the way in which geometric objects can be continuously deformed to one another. It can be thought of as a variation of geometry where there is a notion of points being "close together" but without there being a precise measure o...
Algorithms
Algorithms are systematic methods for solving mathematical problems, such as sorting numbers in ascending order, finding the cheapest way to ship goods on the road network or finding the shortest path in a graph. They can be regarded as practical applicat...
Complex Analysis
Complex Analysis is the theory of functions in a complex variable. While the initial theory is very similar to Analysis (i.e, the theory of functions in one real variable as seen in the second year), the main theorems provide a surprisingly elegant, found...
Design and Analysis of Experiments
A well-designed experiment is an efficient way of learning about the world. Typically, an experiment may involve varying several factors and observing the value of a response at settings of combinations of values of these factors. The mathematical challen...
Developmental Psychology
This module will develop your understanding and knowledge of development across childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age. We will present historical and current research studies and explain how these link to related theoretical frameworks. The mod...
Fields and Fluids
Over the last four hundred years progress in understanding the physical world (theoretical physics) has gone hand in hand with progress in the mathematical sciences, so much so that the terms applied mathematics and theoretical physics have come to be alm...
Financial Mathematics
This module provides a solid mathematical introduction to the subject of Compound Interest Theory and its application to the analysis of a wide variety of complex financial problems, including those associated with mortgage and commercial loans, the valua...
Further Number Theory
Number Theory is the study of integers and their generalisations such as the rationals, algebraic integers or finite fields. The problem more or less defining Number Theory is to find integer solutions to equations, such as the famous Fermat equation x^n ...
Galois Theory
This module is designed for students in their third year and aims to introduce the basic concepts and techniques of Galois theory, building on earlier work at level 2. As such, it will provide an introduction to core concepts in rings, fields, polynomials...
Geometry and Topology
Geometry has grown out of efforts to understand the world around us, and has been a central part of mathematics from the ancient times to the present. Topology has been designed to describe, quantify, and compare shapes of complex objects. Together, geome...
Global Health
The global health module is an exciting opportunity to examine the factors associated with emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases such as the recent outbreak of Ebola and Swine Flu that quickly spread around the world, and non-communicable diseases ...
Graph Theory
Graph theory was born in 1736 with Euler’s solution of the Königsberg bridge problem, which asked whether it was possible to plan a walk over the seven bridges of the town without re-tracing one’s steps. Euler realised that the problem could be rephrased ...
Group Theory
Group theory is one of the great simplifying and unifying ideas in modern mathematics. It was introduced in order to understand the solutions to polynomial equations, but only in the last one hundred years has its full significance, as a mathematical for...
Hilbert Spaces
This module is an introduction to the functional analysis of Hilbert spaces. The subject of functional analysis builds on the linear algebra studied in the first year and the analysis studied in the second year. Initially pivotal in Fourier theory and di...
Integral Transform Methods
Many classes of problems are difficult to solve in their original domain. An integral transform maps the problem from its original domain into a new domain in which solution is easier. The solution is then mapped back to the original domain with the inver...
Knowledge Management
As organisations have become more knowledge intensive, the ability to manage knowledge has become a matter of competitive survival. This module is intended to provide students with a blend of theory and current practice in knowledge management in organisa...
Learning and Teaching Mathematics
This module offers an opportunity to learn about mathematics education. We explore different perspectives on the teaching and learning of mathematics drawing on research and theoretical considerations. You will also experience a range of research-informed...
Mathematical Biology
Biology is undergoing a quantitative revolution, generating vast quantities of data that are analysed using bioinformatics techniques and modelled using mathematics to give insight into the underlying biological processes. This module aims to give a flavo...
Mathematical Finance
Following an initial discussion of the assessment and measurement of investment risk, mean-variance portfolio theory is introduced and used to determine the risk and return for a portfolio of risky assets, the composition of the optimal such portfolio, an...
Mathematical Programming
- Linear programs: their basic properties; the simplex algorithm. - Duality: the relationship between a linear program and its dual, duality theorems, complementarity, and the alternative; sensitivity analysis. - The interior point method for convex op...
Numerical Methods
Introduce the students to the practical application of a relatively wide spectrum of numerical techniques and familiarise the students with numerical coding. Often in mathematics, it is possible to prove the existence of a solution to a given problem, ...
Operational Research II
A variety of OR techniques are covered in lectures and assessed by examination. Workshops develop skills with computer modelling software (discrete-event simulation and linear programming). Other skills that are developed within the module are group w...
Optimization
Module Contents: This module discusses continuous optimization problems where either the objective function or constraint functions or both are nonlinear. It explains optimality conditions, that is, which conditions an optimal solution must satisfy. It in...
Perception
The module will cover basic topics in perceptual psychology. We will discuss how the visual brain uses information from the two eyes in combination with learnt heuristics and other information sources to construct a perceptual representation of the world....
Project Management
Project management is an integrated approach to achieve non-routine business objectives. This module aims to introduce the ideas, techniques and tools of project management as used in practice. Students will be equipped with both knowledge and underst...
Relativity, Black Holes and Cosmology
This is a module principally on Einstein's general theory of relativity, a relativistic theory of gravitation which explains gravitational effects as coming from the curvature of space-time. It provides a comprehensive introduction to material which is cu...
Statistical Distribution Theory
Functions of one and several random variables are considered such as sums, differences, products and ratios. The central limit theorem is proved and the probability density functions are derived of those sampling distributions linked to the normal distrib...
Statistical Inference
Statistical inference involves using data from a sample to draw conclusions about a wider population. Given a partly specified statistical model, in which at least one parameter is unknown, and some observations for which the model is valid, it is possibl...
Statistical Methods in Insurance
Statistical Modelling I
Simple linear regression is developed for one explanatory variable using the principle of least squares. The extension to two explanatory variables raises the issue of whether both variables are needed for a well-fitting model, or whether one is sufficien...
Statistical Modelling II
The module Statistical Modelling II covers in detail the theory of linear regression models, where explanatory variables are used to explain the variation in a response variable, which is assumed to be normally distributed. However, in many practical situ...
Stochastic Processes
The module will introduce the basic ideas in modelling, solving and simulating stochastic processes.
Structure and Dynamics of Networks
Networks are ubiquitous in the modern world: from the biological networks that regulate cell behaviour, to technological networks such as the Internet and social networks such as Facebook. Typically real-world networks are large, complex, and exhibit both...
Survival Models
This module introduces some of the fundamental ideas and issues of lifetime and time-to-event data analysis, as used in actuarial practice, biomedical research and demography.
Topics in Macroeconomics
The main objective of this module is to expose students to the state-of-the-art discussion in a range of macroeconomic topics: growth, unemployment, taxation, and monetary policy. The approach is to study a simplified version of some widely used models in...
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- individual and group projects
- teamwork
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- individual and group projects
- teamwork
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Peter Kropholler is the course leader.
Careers
Employability is an essential part of our maths courses, ensuring you are equipped for a successful postgraduate career or further study.
You’ll graduate with transferable skills that will qualify you to work in a range of fields and industries.
Our maths graduates have gone on to work as:
- actuaries
- economists
- statisticians
- programmers
- software developers
- accountants
- business analysts
- financial analysts
- financial managers
The University’s UoS Internships Programme can help you find a paid work placement during the Easter or summer vacation.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV and interview skills and workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
You’ll have the opportunity to take a paid year in employment between your second and third year.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £23,400.
The Government has recently announced changes to UK tuition fees from September 2025 onwards. We will update our website to reflect this shortly.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and standard exams.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant to help fund your studies.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Hub offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
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