Computer Science and Mathematics (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Level(s) of Study: Undergraduate
- UCAS Code(s): GG45
- Start Date(s): September 2024
- Duration: Four years full-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time
- Campus: Clifton Campus
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Entry Requirements:
More information
Introduction:
Mathematics underpins the core features of computing and coding. This course focuses on this fascinating subject and supports you to develop a broad knowledge of mathematics and science in your foundation year. It provides you with a solid foundation from which to move on to BSc (Hons) in Computer Science and Mathematics in your second year.
Learning by doing is the focus of this course and you’ll do just that, by taking part in lots of projects both on your own and in a group. This develops your problem-solving and creative thinking skills.
If you change your mind, you have developed the skills and knowledge to move on to one of our other mathematics courses in your second year.
Our Computer Science and Mathematics degree is current and relevant to the needs of the business. Our close links with the industry mean that, if you wish, you’ll have the opportunity to take up job placements with some of the world’s leading companies.
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Every year we offer a number short research scholarships in one of our research teams. This is a great opportunity for you to further your interests and contribute to the academic activities of the Mathematics department. -
Join our Mathematics Society, and you’ll have the opportunity to take part in regular events hosted on campus by the local branch of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications. -
Top 20 for student satisfaction in Mathematics (National Student Survey, 2022)
What you’ll study
We are in the process of a digital revolution. The way we interact with the world around us is changing at supersonic speed, and mathematicians and computer scientists are at the forefront of this cutting edge technology – spotting opportunities and solving problems in every area of our daily lives. There has always been synergy between Mathematics and Computer Science and today these complementary skill sets are instrumental in creating a connected world.
After your foundation year you’ll explore a wide range of mathematical techniques and applications. Then, in your final year, you’ll get to choose a number of specialist modules, depending on your own personal preferences and career aspirations.
An optional placement year is available, this will typically take place after Year Three, and you will return to campus for your final year in Year Five.
Introductory Mathematics
This module provides an introduction to important mathematical ideas, including Algebraic rearrangement, Trigonometry, Vectors, Descriptive Statistics, Integration and Differentiation. You’ll gain an understanding of ideas that form the basis of later, more specialised, developments and you’ll be able to solve simple but realistic mathematical problems.
Intermediate Mathematics
This module aims to provide the link between Introductory Mathematics and degree level Mathematics. You’ll cover more complex topics such as the chain rule and integration by parts, the generalisation of vectors to matrices, the approximation of numerical series, logic and probability, complex numbers and mathematical proof.
Foundation Science
In this module you’ll cover topics in Physics and Chemistry including exchange, transport and conservation of energy and inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. The aim of this module is to provide a sound scientific foundation for the study of engineering or mathematics at undergraduate degree level.
Computational Mathematics
A hands-on introduction to ideas and skills which cross Mathematics, Physics and Computing. Using software such as Excel and Matlab, you’ll learn about mathematical ideas like matrices and the consideration of how physical systems can be represented mathematically.
Practical and Professional Skills
This module aims to provide a link between the theoretical modules on the course and their practical implementation. The professional skills aspect will help you with interpreting coursework requirements, exam and revision technique, note taking and referencing. The practical sessions will cover a variety of topics that require you to make use of the scientific principles and mathematical techniques that you’re learning in the other modules on the course.
Foundations of Computing Technology and Programming
Computer Science Programming
Introduction to Numerical Methods
Learn about important numerical methods for solving mathematical problems and develop computational skills using specialist mathematical software packages.
Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design (SAD)
Mathematical Methods
Data Analysis
Introduction to Numerical Methods
Learn about important numerical methods for solving mathematical problems and develop computational skills using specialist mathematical software packages.
Mathematical Enterprise
In this module you’ll work in small teams to develop a plan for a new business or enterprise, using your mathematical skills to showcase the viability of your venture. This module is run in conjunction with Nottingham's Creative Quarter and you’ll work with several local businesses to create business plans.
Software Design and Implementation
Probability and Statistical Inference
Refine your knowledge of statistical inference and statistical modelling and further develop essential computational and IT skills.
Systems Software
Optional modules - Choose one of the following modules:
Applied Mathematics and Graphics
Foundations of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
The rate at which data is being stored is growing at a phenomenal rate and many businesses are struggling to analyse and make sense of this vast collection of data. This module will introduce you to a number of ‘machine learning’ techniques to process and discover patterns in data.
Numerical Methods for Ordinary Differential Equations
Differential Equations and Modelling
An optional placement year is available, this will typically take place after Year Three, and you will return to campus for your final year in Year Five.
The final year modules are as follows:
Project in Mathematics
OR
Project in Computing
The final year project gives you the opportunity to demonstrate and document your skills, knowledge and understanding of mathematics, and show your planning, organisation and problem solving abilities.
And either
Professional Mathematics Skills
Gain a broad view of the practical applications of mathematics in the real world, especially in industrial contexts such as finance, physics and
engineering.
OR
Communicating Science and Technology
This module will be of interest to you if you are considering a career in teaching and / or want to develop your portfolio of transferable skills.
Optional modules - Choose one of the following modules:
Applied Statistics
Stochastic Processes
Numerical Analysis and Dynamical Systems
Quantum Computing and Cryptography
This module provides an introduction to the theory of cryptography and quantum computation. These topics will build on and extend your knowledge and understanding of key mathematical ideas that were introduced in the earlier years of the course.
Plus one module from:
Graphics for Games and Dynamics Modelling
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Learn about the theoretical foundations of AI, the main methods and techniques and current areas of AI research and development.
Advanced Analysis and Design
Service-Centric and Cloud Computing
And one module from:
Linear Systems
Statistical Modelling
Computational Statistics and Data Analysis
Explore topics from computational statistics and statistical models relevant to modern applications, with an emphasis on developing solid conceptual understanding of these methods through applications.
Optimisation
Optimisation is the art of optimal decision-making under constraints. This module introduces you to optimisation, focussing on the theoretical foundations of the subject, as well as the practical modelling aspects, and the algorithm analysis and design.
Plus one module from:
Mobile Platform Applications
Understand the requirements, capabilities and constraints of a variety of mobile platform technologies and consider how they can be used to build systems that are outside the traditional desktop paradigm.
Advanced Software Engineering
Covers techniques and strategies to analyse, choose, propose, design, implement, test and evaluate software elements (including data structures and algorithmic solutions).
Distributed Database Engineering
Learn about the processes and techniques data scientists use to support the challenging workloads for data science by focusing on a range of
distributed database technologies that can support big data.
How you’re taught
You’ll spend between 14 and 16 hours every week in lectures, seminars, practical sessions and workshops. This includes up to 4 surgery sessions where you’ll meet with your lecturer in small groups to discuss any problems or work through challenging topics. The rest of your time will be spent carrying out independent study such as reading textbooks and lecture notes, and working on exercises.
Contact hours
Year 1 - lectures/seminars/workshops (30%) and independent study (70%)
Year 2 - lectures/seminars/workshops (33%) and independent study (67%)
Year 3 - lectures/seminars/workshops (34%) and independent study (66%)
Year 4 - lectures/seminars/workshops (18%) and independent study (82%)
A placement year may be taken between year 3 and year 4 of study
How you’re assessed
We want you to graduate with a range of transferable skills, so all of the mathematics modules have two or three assessment components that help you to demonstrate your knowledge in a variety of ways. As well as traditional exams and in-class tests, you’ll complete assignments and group projects, and give presentations. In your final year, you’ll also complete your final project with the support of your personal tutor.
- Year 1 - coursework (60%) and written (40%)
- Year 1 - coursework (65%) and written (35%)
- Year 2 - coursework (53%) and written (47%)
- Year 3 - coursework (61%) and written (39%)
- A placement year may be taken between year 3 and year 4 of study
Careers and employability
Our recent graduates have secured roles at companies including:
- Perceptive Informatics
- Santander
- Dorset Software Services
- OCM Wealth Management Ltd
- industrial and commercial mathematics
- statistical applications systems modelling
- software engineering
- telecommunications
- IT applications
- teaching and research
- Associate Software Validation Engineer
- MI analyst
- Graduate Analyst Programmer
- Business Intelligence Consultant
Other careers could include:
They have gone into a wide variety of job roles including:
Many graduates also choose to undertake further study on one of our Masters-level courses or MPhil and PhD research degrees.
Placements
NTU is one of the most employment-focused universities. Increasingly, employers want to recruit graduates who have real-world work experience. That’s why all of our courses, across every subject area, offer you a work experience opportunity. Our experts help build and support your future with a range of career programmes and events.
On this course, after your third year, you will have the opportunity to take a year's work placement (sandwich placement). This will give you the chance to gain vital experience and put your knowledge into practice. You're also twice as likely to secure a graduate job within six months if you take a work placement.
Our recent students have taken placements across a wide range of companies including DeVere Group, Mercedes and Parexel. They secured varied roles such as Assistant Bio-Statistician, IT Intern and Modelling and Data Placement Student.
You'll be supported and assessed throughout your placement year and will write a reflective report and diary at the end of your placement. When you successfully complete your placement, you will be eligible to receive an additional award of a Diploma in Professional Practice.
Find out more about work placements.
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
Entry requirements
- 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent
- GCSEs – Maths grade B/6 and English C/4
To find out what qualifications have tariff points, please use our tariff calculator.
Other qualifications and experience
We may also consider credits achieved at other universities and your work/life experience through an assessment of prior learning. This may be for year one entry, or beyond the beginning of a course where applicable, for example, into year 2. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
- 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent
- GCSEs – Maths grade B/6 and English C/4
International qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
Undergraduate preparation courses (Foundation)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Foundation courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
English language entry requirements
You can meet our language requirements by successfully completing our pre-sessional English course for an agreed length of time, or by submitting the required grade in one of our accepted English language tests, such as IELTS:
Advanced standing (starting your undergraduate degree in year 2 or 3)
You may be able to start your undergraduate course in year 2 or 3 based on what you have studied before. This decision would be made in accordance with our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
Fees and funding
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there’s no need to feel anxious and confused about it. We hope that our fees and funding pages will answer all your questions.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service on telephone +44 (0)115 848 2494.
Additional Costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies, and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core text books, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential text books, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Field trips
All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to take part in optional field trips, which do incur additional costs.
Placements
If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs.
Print and copy costs
The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs approximately £20 - £50. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Other
Students will require a basic scientific calculator for use in examinations (e.g. Casio 83 or 85 series, approximately £15).
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are payable for each year that you are at the University. The level of tuition fees for the second and subsequent years of your undergraduate course may increase in line with inflation and as specified by the UK government. See our fees.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships of up to 50% of your tuition fee. You can apply for your scholarship when you have an offer to study at NTU.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
Additional Costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies, and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core text books, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential text books, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Field trips
All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to take part in optional field trips, which do incur additional costs.
Placements
If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs.
Print and copy costs
The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs approximately £20 - £50. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Other
Students will require a basic scientific calculator for use in examinations (e.g. Casio 83 or 85 series, approximately £15).
How to apply
Ready to join us? Then apply as soon as you can. Just click the Apply button at the top of the page and follow the instructions for applying. Make sure you check the entry requirements above carefully before you do.
Writing your application and personal statement
Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only make a decision based on what you tell us. So include all of your qualifications and grades, including resits or predicted grades.
Your personal statement is a really important part of your application. It’s your chance to convince us why we should offer you a place! You’ve got 4,000 characters to impress us. Make sure you use them to show how your skills and qualities are relevant to the course(s) you’re applying for. For more hints and tips, take a look at our page on how to write a good personal statement.
Keeping up to date
After you’ve applied, we’ll be sending you important emails throughout the application process - so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
You can get more information and advice about applying to NTU on our Your Application page. Good luck with your application!
You can apply for this course through UCAS. If you are not applying to any other UK universities, you can apply directly to us on our NTU applicant portal.
Application advice
Apply early so that you have enough time to prepare – processing times for Student visas can vary, for example. After you've applied, we'll be sending you important emails throughout the application process – so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Writing your personal statement
Be honest, thorough, and persuasive – we can only make a decision about your application based on what you tell us:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
The University's commitment to delivering the educational services advertised.