.png?mw=300)
Undergraduate Course
BSc (Hons) Mathematics
(Including Foundation Year)
Now In Clearing
Overview
The details
Mathematics (Including Foundation Year)
G104
October 2026
Full-time
What is the BSc (Hons) Mathematics (Including Foundation Year)?
The BSc (Hons) Mathematics (Including Foundation Year) is a four-year degree.
You’ll secure a broad understanding of the fundamental of mathematics and their modern applications.
If you don’t yet meet the entry requirements for the three-year version, starting the course with a Foundation Year gives you a supported step up to university study.
Why this course
The BSc (Hons) Mathematics (Including Foundation Year) lets you blend pure mathematics, applied topics and statistical, financial and analytical methods.
Open to UK and EU applicants, this four-year course includes a Foundation Year. From the start of your journey at Essex, you’ll be integrated as a student within the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science for the entire duration of your degree, helping you to feel connected to your subject, lecturers and future classmates from day one. At least 25% of the teaching during your Foundation Year will be delivered directly by the School. You’ll also study academic skills modules designed to help you build confidence and prepare for university-level study. Your Foundation Year won’t just prepare you for university - it’ll help you feel part of your academic community right from the beginning.
From Year One of the BSc (Hons) Mathematics, you’ll develop programming skills in languages such as Python and SQL, and learn to use computational toolkits such as MATLAB, Maple and R.
You’ll graduate into a well-rounded mathematician ready for a range of career paths, from financial analysis to engineering. Crucially, you’ll leave with a personal portfolio to demonstrate your mathematical capabilities in job applications and interviews.
Who should apply
- Future mathematicians and researchers
- Students eager to master the logical foundations of all science, engineering and technology
- Those considering careers that apply mathematics or further the modern understanding
- Practical, analytic thinkers
What you’ll learn
- Pure: Explore various types of calculus, algebra and more
- Applied: Discover mathematical physics, differential equations and more
- Analysis: Gain a broad understanding of statistics and dive into specific analytic methods
- Specialise: Tailor your degree through your choice of optional modules
Your learning experience
- Expert teaching: Learn from active researchers furthering our modern understanding of mathematics and award-winning lecturers qualified and accredited in mathematics education
- Specialist facilities: Consult our Maths Support Centre one-to-one or in a group, and study in a dedicated social and study spaces for maths students in the STEM Centre
- Employability support: Take work-based learning modules with live employer projects or a placement
Careers and outcomes
A BSc (Hons) Mathematics degree prepares you for diverse careers in:
- Business and finance: Financial analysis, accountancy, consultancy
- Data science: Data analysis, statistics
- Technology: Software engineering, machine learning
- Research: Academic research, operational research
- Education: Mathematics teaching (primary or secondary)
Why we're great.
- 6th in the UK for mathematics (Guardian University Guide 2026)
- 6th for student positivity in mathematics (National Student Survey 2025, English Broad Discipline Universities)
- We’re continually broadening our array of expertise, letting you tailor your degree to your interests
“I’m happy to say that I am working in a field that I genuinely enjoy. As a software developer for HM Land Registry my responsibilities change depending on the team I am working with. So far I’ve had experience in software development, software testing, data analysis and project architecture. Problem solving is the number one skill from my degree that I need to use every day. In fact, most maths graduates have really good problem-solving and critical-thinking skills which helps us become proficient in the software development field.”
Vilius Gudziunas, BSc Mathematics, 2018
Meet the researchers
Course content
Course structure
Our research-led teaching is continually evolving to address the latest challenges and breakthroughs in the field. The following modules are based on the current course structure and may change in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision for you. We'll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities as described on our website and in line with your contract with us. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to significant disruption, we'll let our applicants and students know as soon as possible.
Components and modules explained
Components
Components are the blocks of study that make up your course. A component may have a set module which you must study, or a number of modules from which you can choose.
Each component has a status and carries a certain number of credits towards your qualification.
| Status | What this means |
| Core |
You must take the set module for this component and you must pass. No failure can be permitted. |
| Core with Options |
You can choose which module to study from the available options for this component but you must pass. No failure can be permitted. |
| Compulsory |
You must take the set module for this component. There may be limited opportunities to continue on the course/be eligible for the qualification if you fail. |
| Compulsory with Options |
You can choose which module to study from the available options for this component. There may be limited opportunities to continue on the course/be eligible for the qualification if you fail. |
| Optional |
You can choose which module to study from the available options for this component. There may be limited opportunities to continue on the course/be eligible for the qualification if you fail. |
The modules that are available for you to choose for each component will depend on several factors, including which modules you have chosen for other components, which modules you have completed in previous years of your course, and which term the module is taught in.
Modules
Modules are the individual units of study for your course. Each module has its own set of learning outcomes and assessment criteria and also carries a certain number of credits.
In most cases you will study one module per component, but in some cases you may need to study more than one module. For example, a 30-credit component may comprise of either one 30-credit module, or two 15-credit modules, depending on the options available.
Modules may be taught at different times of the year and by a different department or school to the one your course is primarily based in. You can find this information from the module code. For example, the module code HR100-4-FY means:
| HR | 100 | 4 | FY |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The department or school the module will be taught by. In this example, the module would be taught by the Department of History. |
The module number. |
The UK academic level of the module. A standard undergraduate course will comprise of level 4, 5 and 6 modules - increasing as you progress through the course. A standard postgraduate taught course will comprise of level 7 modules. A postgraduate research degree is a level 8 qualification. |
The term the module will be taught in.
|
COMPONENT 01: CORE
Computer Programming
(30 CREDITS)
How do you test and evaluate the operation of simple computer programs? Or develop a program using tools in the Python programming language? Study the principles of procedural computing programming. Examine basic programming concepts, structures and methodologies. Understand good program design, learn to correct coding and practice debugging techniques.
COMPONENT 02: CORE
Communicating Science: Reading, Writing and Research Skills
(30 CREDITS)
This module is designed to support students in their academic subject disciplines and to strengthen their confidence in key skills areas such as: academic writing, research, academic integrity, collaborative and reflective practices. The students are supported through the use of subject-specific materials tailored to their chosen degrees with alignment of assessments between academic subject modules and the skills module.
View Communicating Science: Reading, Writing and Research Skills on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 03: CORE
Mathematics and Statistics for Sciences
(30 CREDITS)
The module covers the mathematical skills needed to proceed to any degree course within the School of Life Sciences. The syllabus covers the mathematics of basic arithmetic and algebra, graphs and rates of change as well as statistical distributions and hypothesis testing. The associated work in classes and lab sessions develops the skills used to solve problems applicable to the study of biological sciences, with classwork and online assignments being set and full solutions provided as part of the feedback process.
View Mathematics and Statistics for Sciences on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 04: CORE
Essential Mathematics
(30 CREDITS)
Want to know the basic mathematical techniques of algebra? To understand calculus? To apply methods of differentiation and integration to a range of functions? Build the basic, then more advanced, mathematical skills needed for future study. Learn to solve relevant problems, choosing the most suitable method for solution.
COMPONENT 01: CORE
Calculus
(30 CREDITS)
This module will allow you to build your knowledge of differentiation and integration, how you can solve first and second order differential equations, Taylor Series and more.
COMPONENT 02: CORE
Matrices and Complex Numbers
(15 CREDITS)
Matrices and complex numbers are two fundamental concepts which arise throughout mathematics. In this module you will be introduced to these objects and learn fundamental techniques for working with them in a variety of contexts.
COMPONENT 03: CORE
Statistics I
(15 CREDITS)
In this module you will learn the fundamentals of probability and statistics, including axioms and combinatorial analysis, distributions, and independence conditions. You will learn how to apply the addition rule of probability and construct diagrams to visually represent data sets. The course also covers the use of descriptive statistics to analyse data and provides hands-on experience with the R software package.
COMPONENT 04: COMPULSORY
Mechanics and Relativity
(15 CREDITS)
This module provides an in-depth introduction to ideas from Newtonian mechanics and dynamics which have played a crucial role in the evolution of mathematics. You will apply these ideas in various physical contexts, and develop your skills and understanding through the use of relevant software packages.
COMPONENT 05: COMPULSORY
Mathematical and Computational Modelling
(15 CREDITS)
This module introduces programming skills and their applications in a range of mathematical contexts. Mathematical modelling skills will be an important focus, along with structuring and implementing code in MATLAB and R. To help you consolidate these skills, a key part of the module will be investigative computational modelling studies.
View Mathematical and Computational Modelling on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 06: COMPULSORY
Introduction to Geometry, Algebra, and Number theory
(15 CREDITS)
Want to develop your mathematical skills by solving a variety of problems? Keen to write elegant and fluent mathematical arguments? In this module you will encounter a range of problem-solving techniques for situations across mathematics, including calculus, algebra, combinatorics, geometry and mechanics.
View Introduction to Geometry, Algebra, and Number theory on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 07: COMPULSORY
Discrete Mathematics
(15 CREDITS)
This module will provide you with a foundation of knowledge on the mathematics of sets and relations. You will develop an appreciation of mathematical proof techniques, including proof by induction.
COMPONENT 08: COMPULSORY
Mathematics Careers and Employability
(0 CREDITS)
What skills do you need to succeed during your studies? What about after university? How will you harness your knowledge and soft skills to realise your career goals? This module helps you take an active role in developing transferrable skills and capitalising on your unique background. As well as broad reflection on your professional development, this module will help you explore different career directions and prepare you for the application process, supported by an advisor from within the department.
View Mathematics Careers and Employability on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 01: COMPULSORY
Statistics II
(15 CREDITS)
This module continues your journey into probability and statistics. Topics include distribution theory, estimation and Maximum Likelihood estimators, hypothesis testing, basic linear regression and multiple linear regression. You will continue to develop your skills with implementations in R.
COMPONENT 02: COMPULSORY
Real Analysis
(15 CREDITS)
How do we rigorously discuss notions of infinity and the infinitely small? When do limits and derivatives of functions make sense? This module introduces the mathematics underlying modern calculus. Fundamental theorems are proved about sets, sequences and series of real numbers, and about continuous and differentiable functions of a single real variable.
COMPONENT 03: COMPULSORY
Vector Calculus
(15 CREDITS)
In this module, you will learn how to extend techniques from calculus to vector-valued systems, through classical concepts such as gradient, divergence and curl. You will learn central theorems about these operators, and examine various applications and examples.
COMPONENT 04: COMPULSORY
Linear Algebra
(15 CREDITS)
Linear systems are some of the most widely-applied concepts in modern algebra. Beginning with the abstract axiomatic definitions of vectors, vector spaces and linear maps, this module allows you to derive powerful methods for understanding many different systems in mathematics and science.
COMPONENT 05: COMPULSORY
Abstract Algebra
(15 CREDITS)
The module introduces you to the key abstract algebraic objects of groups, rings and fields and develops their fundamental theory. The theory will be illustrated and made concrete through numerous examples in settings that you will already have encountered.
COMPONENT 06: COMPULSORY
Ordinary Differential Equations
(15 CREDITS)
Ordinary differential equations are the backbone of much applied mathematics, arising everywhere that a physical, financial or other system changes continuously. This module introduces techniques for studying classes of linear and nonlinear differential equations, and for interpreting their solutions.
View Ordinary Differential Equations on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 08: COMPULSORY
Mathematics Careers and Employability
(0 CREDITS)
What skills do you need to succeed during your studies? What about after university? How will you harness your knowledge and soft skills to realise your career goals? This module helps you take an active role in developing transferrable skills and capitalising on your unique background. As well as broad reflection on your professional development, this module will help you explore different career directions and prepare you for the application process, supported by an advisor from within the department.
View Mathematics Careers and Employability on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 01: COMPULSORY
Complex Variables
(15 CREDITS)
This module extends analytical and algebraic techniques to functions of complex variables, and their applications. You will develop powerful tools for studying functions via their zeroes and poles, including the powerful Residue Theorem for calculating real integrals.
COMPONENT 05: COMPULSORY
Mathematics Careers and Employability
(0 CREDITS)
What skills do you need to succeed during your studies? What about after university? How will you harness your knowledge and soft skills to realise your career goals? This module helps you take an active role in developing transferrable skills and capitalising on your unique background. As well as broad reflection on your professional development, this module will help you explore different career directions and prepare you for the application process, supported by an advisor from within the department.
View Mathematics Careers and Employability on our Module Directory
Teaching
- Undergraduate students in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science typically attend three taught hours per module per week. This varies by module, e.g. two hours of lectures and one class/lab.
Assessment
- Your final mark is a weighted combination of coursework and summer examinations.
- Year One does not count towards your final degree class.
- You receive regular feedback through in-term tests.
- In your final year, you have the opportunity to complete a full-year or one-term project.
Entry requirements
Clearing entry requirements
We currently have places available in Clearing across a range of our courses with most offers expected to be made at CCD - CDD (88 - 80 UCAS tariff points) or equivalent. A complete breakdown of expected Clearing entry requirements, by course, is available on our Clearing entry requirements page.
We consider each application individually and requirements may be lower for some of our courses, so please still get in touch if your grades are below those outlined.
English language requirements
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English
IELTS 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component, or specified score in an equivalent test that we accept.
If we accept the English component of an international qualification it will be included in the academic levels listed above for the relevant countries.
Pre-sessional English courses
If you do not meet our IELTS requirements then you may be able to complete a pre-sessional English pathway that enables you to start your course without retaking IELTS.
Additional Notes
If you’re an international student, but do not meet the requirements for direct admission to this degree or the first year of a degree at Essex, you could prepare and gain entry through a pathway course. Find out more about opportunities available to you at the University of Essex International College
Fees and funding
Home/UK fee
£9,790 per year
International fee
£21,500 per year
The standard undergraduate degree fee for international students will apply in subsequent years.
Fees will increase for each academic year of study.
If your course has the option to include a placement year or study abroad, and you choose to do so, you will pay the following:
Placement year
20% of your standard tuition fee for that year
Study abroad
Full year abroad
15% of your standard tuition fee for that year
Single term abroad
Standard tuition fee
Scholarships and financial support
There may be scholarships, bursaries or discounts available to help with the cost of this course.
Fees and funding guide
What's next
Open Days
Our events are a great way to find out more about studying at Essex. We run a number of Open Days throughout the year which enable you to discover what our campus has to offer. You have the chance to:
- tour our campus and accommodation
- find out answers to your questions about our courses, student finance, graduate employability, student support and more
- meet our students and staff
Check out our Visit Us pages to find out more information about booking onto one of our events. And if the dates aren’t suitable for you, feel free to book a campus tour here.
2026 Open Days (Colchester Campus)
How to apply during Clearing
Once you’ve checked that we have the right course for you, applying couldn’t be simpler. Fill in our quick and easy Clearing application form with as much detail as you can. We’ll then take a look and get back to you with a decision.
If you already hold an offer from Essex
Please don't reapply through Clearing. We'll review your existing application using our Clearing entry requirements. If you're worried about meeting your offer or would like to change course, please contact our Admissions Team on ugquery@essex.ac.uk.
Interviews
We don’t require an interview for most of our courses that are available through Clearing, however there are some courses such as those in our School of Health and Social Care and East 15 Acting School where an interview (or audition) may be required. If this is something that’s required for the course you have applied for, we’ll email you with all of the details.
Visit Colchester Campus
Set within 200 acres of award-winning parkland - Wivenhoe Park and located two miles from the historic city centre of Colchester – England's oldest recorded development. Our Colchester Campus is also easily reached from London and Stansted Airport in under one hour.
Virtual tours
If you live too far away to come to Essex (or have a busy lifestyle), no problem. Our 360-degree virtual tour allows you to explore our University from the comfort of your home. Check out our Colchester virtual tour to see accommodation options, facilities and social spaces.
Chat to us
Got a question about this course? Chat with one of our academics in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science.
Sign up for emails
Entry requirements
Book an open day
At Essex we pride ourselves on being a welcoming and inclusive student community. We offer a wide range of support to individuals and groups of student members who may have specific requirements, interests or responsibilities.
The University makes every effort to ensure that this information on its programme specification is accurate and up-to-date. Exceptionally it can be necessary to make changes, for example to courses, facilities or fees. Examples of such reasons might include, but are not limited to: strikes, other industrial action, staff illness, severe weather, fire, civil commotion, riot, invasion, terrorist attack or threat of terrorist attack (whether declared or not), natural disaster, restrictions imposed by government or public authorities, epidemic or pandemic disease, failure of public utilities or transport systems or the withdrawal/reduction of funding. Changes to courses may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will also keep students informed appropriately by updating our programme specifications. The University would inform and engage with you if your course was to be discontinued, and would provide you with options, where appropriate, in line with our Compensation and Refund Policy.
The full Procedures, Rules and Regulations of the University governing how it operates are set out in the Charter, Statutes and Ordinances and in the University Regulations, Policy and Procedures.