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Mathematics and Physics (with foundation year) BSc (Hons)

Start date

  • Level(s) of Study: Undergraduate
  • Typical Offer: 72 UCAS tariff points
  • UCAS Code(s): FG35
  • Start Date(s): September 2024
  • Duration: Four years full-time
  • Study Mode(s): Full-time
  • Campus: Clifton Campus
Information for 2024

Introduction:

We’re here to support you as you set out on your journey. We’ll build your mathematics and science skills and knowledge so you’re ready for the challenge of moving on to BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Physics in your second year.

You’ll get plenty of opportunities to apply your knowledge by participating in a series of projects on your own and in a group. This develops your problem-solving and creative thinking skills – essential for mathematics and physics  graduates.

Don’t worry if you change your mind about studying mathematics and physics. You’ll have a solid foundation to switch to one of our other mathematics courses.

Our Mathematics and Physics degrees are 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.

  • Every year we offer a number of short research scholarships to 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.
  • 97% of our mathematics students were in work or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21).
  • Top 20 in the UK for teaching quality in Physics and Mathematics (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)

What you’ll study

In the modern world, many new employment opportunities demand multi-skilled graduates. Those with mathematical and physics skills are among the most sought-after in fields including industrial research and development, computing, business, finance and teaching.

You’ll use our outstanding laboratory facilities. Last year we spent £250,000 on new equipment for our teaching laboratories, including telescopes, CCD cameras, ultrasound scanners, magnetic resonance spectrometers, high-speed cameras, thermal imaging equipment and a high-resolution 3D printer.

How will I learn?

We will provide lectures, practical laboratory sessions, seminars and two to four surgery sessions each week. The rest of your time is given to self-guided independent study (reading textbooks, lecture notes and exercises)..

Placement Year

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 (20 credit card)

This module introduces 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 (20 cp)

This module aims to link 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 (20 cp)

In this module, you’ll cover physics and chemistry topics, including exchange, transport and conservation of energy and inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. This module aims to provide a sound scientific foundation for studying engineering or mathematics at the undergraduate degree level.

Foundation Engineering (20 cp)

This module includes basic electrical, electronic and mechanical engineering. Mechanics considers the consequences of applying forces to physical bodies; the electrical and electronics part of the module focuses on the scientific principles relevant to circuit theory, analogue electronics and components. Laboratory-based sessions will allow you to gain practical knowledge and experience.

Practical and Professional Skills (20 cp)

This module aims to provide a link between the theoretical modules in the course and their practical implementation. The professional skills aspect will help you interpret coursework requirements, exam and revision techniques, note-taking and referencing. The practical sessions will cover various topics that require you to use the scientific principles and mathematical techniques you’re learning in the other modules of the course.

Calculus (20 credit points)

In this module you’ll study methods of differentiation and integration, from the fundamental principles, to integrating and differentiating complicated functions. Ordinary differential equations will be looked at and in combination with material you’ll learn how to solve these new types of equations.

Data Analysis (20 cp)

This gives you an introduction to important statistical ideas and their application using modern software. You will explore data analysis, probability, statistical inference and statistical modelling.

Introduction to Linear Algebra and Computation (20 credit points)

Studying Linear Algebra gives you a great base knowledge you’ll use in many modules during your course. Concepts include complex numbers, vectors and matrices. Using mathematical software packages you’ll focus on computational and numerical methods that can be used to find approximate solutions to problems that cannot be solved analytically.

Classical and Quantum Mechanics (20 cp)

You’ll develop an understanding of how force, motion, and energy are related, from classical to quantum mechanics. The module reinforces your ability to use mathematical techniques to model physical situations. Your understanding is developed through laboratory experiments and note taking.

Properties of Matter (20 cp)

Introducing the basic structure and model of both stable and unstable nucleus, this module explores radioactive decay and modern applications of ionising radiation. You’ll explore beyond elementary nuclear physics to atomic bonding and some fundamental bulk properties of matter.

Instrumentation and Physics Skills (20 cp)

Learn the skills needed to become a professional physicist in the module. You’ll develop good laboratory practices such as lab notebook keeping, organisation and safety alongside learning how to interpret and report your findings.

Differential Equations (20 cp)

Extend your knowledge of calculus, differential equations and linear algebra, and gain an introduction to difference equations, the Eigen problem and transform methods.

Advanced Calculus (20 cp)

Broaden your knowledge, understanding and skills in advanced higher calculus to topics including Fourier series, partial differential equations and complex analysis.

Mathematical Enterprise (20 cp)

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.

Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics (20 cp)

Introducing the principles and applications of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, this module includes exploring heat transfer processes, thermal properties of materials, and the behaviour of gases, liquids and solids.

Fundamental Forces (20 cp)

Explore the fundamental forces of nature: gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong and weak nuclear forces. You’ll develop your understanding and appreciation of the principles and applications of fundamental forces and of the relationships between them. Study concepts such as Kepler's Laws, Newtonian gravitation and Einstein’s special theory of relativity.

The Quantum World (20 cp)

In this module you will study modern quantum mechanics. Through the application of the 1-D and 3-D Schrödinger equation you’ll learn how to model problems and scenarios.

Core modules

Project and Professional Skills (40 cp)

Immerse yourself in a substantial mathematics project with dedicated support and supervision. The project will showcase your skills, knowledge, and problem-solving abilities. You’ll also take part in activities to explore your career options after graduation.

Partial Differential Equations (20 cp)

Partial differential equations are an essential topic in both pure and applied mathematics.  This topic builds on the introduction given in Advanced Calculus to consider partial linear equations in non-trivial domains and to introduce methods of analysing nonlinear first-order partial differential equations.

Applied Fluid Dynamics (20 cp)

Study both the theoretical topics and applying your learning to industry and research. You’ll be covering topics such as momentum transport, Newtonian and non-Newtonian flow and Bernoilli’s equation.

Optional modules - choose one:

Differential and Integral Equations (20 cp)

Apply your knowledge of advanced calculus and differential equations to solve differential and integral equations.

Numerical Analysis and Dynamical Systems (20 cp)

Develop your knowledge of numerical methods with an emphasis on numerical optimisation techniques, advanced methods for the numerical solution of ordinary differential equations and applying methods to non-linear problems.

Linear Systems (20 cp)

You will continue your previous studies in linear algebra and differential and difference equations.

Optional modules - choose one:

Solid State Physics (20 cp)

Discover the macroscopic properties of matter, focusing on solid state and semiconductor physics. You’ll begin with a review of statistical mechanics to progresses and look at topics such as diffraction patterns, magnetism and waves.

Cosmology and General Relativity (20 cp)

Discover the theories surrounding cosmology and general relativity and the mathematical tools needed to understand them.  Topics study include: Geometry of the universe and Friedmann models, standard big bang cosmology, special relativity and Geodesics and the Schwarzschild metric.

How you’re taught

You'll attend lectures, practical laboratory sessions, seminars and surgery sessions each week.

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 (36%) and independent study (64%)
  • Year 3 - lectures/seminars/workshops (32%) and independent study (68%)
  • Year 4 - lectures/seminars/workshops (19%) and independent study (81%)

A placement year may be taken between year 3 and year 4 of study

Learn a new language

Alongside your study you also have the opportunity to learn a new language. The University Language Programme (ULP) is available to all students and gives you the option of learning a totally new language or improving the skills you already have. Find out more about the ULP.

Get Involved

Our student-run Astronomy and Physics Society organises social events and trips – all themed around hot Physics topics. Recently students have been searching for the Northern Lights in Iceland, visited the large hadron collider in CERN, and calculated the complex forces involved in roller coaster rides at Alton Towers.

Staff Profiles

Fouzia Ouali - Senior Lecturer

School of Science & Technology

Fouzia Ouali Find out more about Fouzia Ouali, Senior Lecturer, in the Department of Physics and Mathematics at Nottingham Trent University.

Colin Wilmott - Senior Lecturer

School of Science & Technology

Find out more about Colin Wilmott, Senior Lecturer, in the Department of Physics and Mathematics at Nottingham Trent University.

Christian Beardah - Senior Lecturer

School of Science & Technology

Find out more about Christian Beardah, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physics and Mathematics at Nottingham Trent University.

Edward Breeds - Principal Lecturer

School of Science & Technology

Find out more about Edward Breeds, Principal Lecturer and Undergraduate Courses Manager in the Dept of Physics and Mathematics at Nottingham Trent University.

How you’re assessed

  • Year 1 - coursework (60%) and written (40%)
  • Year 2 - coursework (23%), written (60%) and practical (17%)
  • Year 3 - coursework (20%), written (73%) and practical (7%)
  • Year 4 - coursework (36%), written (60%) and practical (4%)

A placement year may be taken between year 3 and year 4 of study

Careers and employability

Your career development

You will develop numerical, analytical and computational skills, which employers greatly respect, and essential, transferable skills, including report communication skills, teamwork and problem-solving.

Our recent graduates have secured roles at companies including:

  • Rolls Royce
  • NHS
  • Jaguar Land Rover
  • Nikon
  • Balfour Beatty

They have gone into a wide variety of job roles, including:

  • Research and Development Analyst
  • Aerothermal Engineer
  • Software Test Engineer
  • Secondary Mathematics Teacher
  • Finance Officer

Many graduates also choose to undertake further study on one of our Masters-level courses or MPhil and PhD research degrees in areas including Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Quantum Computing and Detector Research.

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 various 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 a 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 various companies, including DeVere Group, Cooper Parry and IBM. They secured varied roles such as Trainee Wealth Assistant, Business Analyst and Auditing Assistant.

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 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 businesses.

Campus and facilities

Physics teaching and research take place in well-equipped lecture theatres and laboratories, supported by modern scientific, electronic and computing equipment, including:

  • a custom-built teaching observatory recognised by the International Astronomical Union with a 20-inch and a 14-inch telescope and a 2.3m radio telescope
  • MRI facilities, including a 2.35 Tesla Bruker Biospec scanner, a Halbach MRI and a unilateral MRI scanner
  • a microscopy and imaging suite including electron microscopes, confocal and polarising microscopes, an atomic force microscope and a scanning tunnelling microscope
  • a state-of-the-art micro-fabrication laboratory for creating micro-mechanical and microfluidic devices
  • an excellent Ionising Radiation teaching laboratory and three X-ray CT scanners.

Last year, we spent £250,000 on new equipment for our teaching laboratories, including telescopes, CCD cameras, ultrasound scanners, magnetic resonance spectrometers, high-speed cameras, thermal imaging equipment and a high-resolution 3D printer. Our facilities and expertise ensure that our students get the practical experience that employers and researchers need.

Entry requirements

  • 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent
  • GCSE Maths grade B / 6 and English C / 4

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.

Meeting our entry requirements

Hundreds of qualifications in the UK have UCAS tariff points attached to specific grades, including A levels, BTECs, T Levels and many more. You can use your grades and points from up to three different qualifications to meet our criteria. Enter your predicted or achieved grades into our tariff calculator to find out how many points your qualifications are worth.

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

International qualifications

We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:

English language entry requirements

You can meet our language requirements by 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:

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:

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 following 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.

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.

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 recommend one or more core textbooks, which most students purchase. Book costs vary, and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential textbooks, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books from previous year students.

Field trips

All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to participate in optional field trips, which 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 earn a salary whilst on placement, which can help 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. 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.

Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs of approximately £20 - £50.

Other

Students will require a basic scientific calculator for examinations (e.g. Casio 83 or 85 series, approximately £15).

Getting in touch

For more advice and guidance, contact our Student Financial Support Service by telephone at +44 (0)115 848 2494.

Tuition fees 

Tuition fees are payable for each year that you are at the University. The 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 offered 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.

What do the course fees cover?

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 recommend one or more core textbooks, which most students purchase. Book costs vary, and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential textbooks, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books from previous year students available to buy.

Field trips

All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to participate in optional field trips, which 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 earn a salary whilst on placement, which can help 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. 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.

Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs of approximately £20 - £50.

Other

Students will require a basic scientific calculator for examinations (e.g. Casio 83 or 85 series, approximately £15).

How to apply

Writing your application and personal statement

Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only decide based on what you tell us. So include 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, look at our page on how to write a good personal statement.

Keeping up-to-date

After applying, we’ll send 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 applying, we'll send 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.

The University's commitment to delivering the educational services advertised.

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