Undergraduate Course

BSc Mathematics with Computing

(Including Foundation Year)

Now In Clearing

Apply now

Overview

The details

Course: Mathematics with Computing (Including Foundation Year)

UCAS code: G1G8

Start date: October 2023

Study mode: Full-time

Maximum duration: 4 years

Location: Colchester Campus

Based in: Essex Pathways

Mathematics and computing are intertwined, and affect people's lives in ways you might not expect. Maths is the language that underpins the modern world.

Our BSc Mathematics with Computing (including foundation year) will be suitable for you if your academic qualifications do not yet meet our entrance requirements for the three-year version of this course and you want a programme that increases your subject knowledge as well as improves your academic skills in order to support your academic performance.

This four-year course includes a foundation year (Year Zero), followed by a further three years of study. During your Year Zero, you study three academic subjects relevant to your chosen course as well as a compulsory academic skills module, with additional English language for non-English speakers.

You are an Essex student from day one, a member of our global community based at the most internationally diverse campus in the UK.

After successful completion of Year Zero in our Essex Pathways Department, you progress to complete your course with our School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science.

Our BSc Mathematics with Computing course is mathematical at heart, but is backed up with training in programming and algorithms. You’ll receive a good grounding in a broad range of subjects and have the flexibility to choose options according to your interests in both our School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science and our School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering. This allows you to tailor your degree to your chosen specialism or preferred career path.

At Essex we help you develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will start to prepare you to succeed in a wide range of careers involving mathematics and computing. You can build a sound set of skills spanning both disciplines including rigorous problem-solving skills. For example, in mathematics you will learn to analyse very large datasets as well as discover deep insights into complex systems. This is complemented by computational modules that give you will the ability to see a computer system from specification through design, testing and documentation to implementation, and experience of writing technical descriptions and reports.

Why we're great.

As well as being world-class academics and researchers, we are award-winning lecturers.
Guarantee your place on your chosen course if you successfully complete your foundation year at Essex.
We go the extra mile to make sure you succeed both during and after your time with us.

Our expert staff

We have some of the best teachers across the University in our Essex Pathways Department, all of whom have strong subject backgrounds and are highly skilled in their areas.

As well as being world-class academics, our mathematics staff are award-winning teachers. Many of our academics have won national or regional awards for lecturing, and many of them are qualified and accredited teachers – something which is very rare at a university.

Our original computer science department was founded by Professor Tony Brooker, who came to Essex from Manchester where he had worked with Alan Turing. Professor Brooker invented the compiler-compiler, one of the earliest applications of a formal understanding of the nature of programming languages.

In recent years our School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering has attracted many highly active research staff and we are conducting world-leading research in areas such as evolutionary computation, brain-computer interfacing, intelligent inhabited environments and financial forecasting.

Specialist facilities

By studying within our Essex Pathways Department for your foundation year, you will have access to all of the facilities that the University of Essex has to offer, as well as those provided by our department to support you:

We provide computer labs for internet research; classrooms with access to PowerPoint facilities for student presentations; AV facilities for teaching and access to web-based learning materials.
Our new Student Services Hub will support you and provide information for all your needs as a student.
Our social space is stocked with hot magazines and newspapers, and provides an informal setting to meet with your lecturers, tutors and friends.

Take advantage of our extensive learning resources in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science to assist you in your studies:

In addition to teaching, we have a Maths Support Centre, which offers help to students on a range of mathematical problems. Throughout term-time, we can chat through mathematical problems either on a one-to-one or small group basis
We have our own computer labs for the exclusive use of students in the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering and we have a dedicated social and study space for maths students situated in the STEM Centre
Software includes Java, Prolog, C++, Perl, Mysql, Matlab, DB2, Microsoft Office, Visual Studio, and Project
You have access to CAD tools and simulators for chip design (Xilinx) and computer networks (OPNET)
We also have specialist facilities for research into areas including non-invasive brain-computer interfaces, intelligent environments, robotics, optoelectronics, video, RF and MW, printed circuit milling, and semiconductors

Your future

Clear thinkers are required in every profession, so the successful mathematician has an extensive choice of potential careers.

Mathematics and computing graduates are highly employable in a wide range of places, working in business, pharmaceutical industries, banking and computing among others. The Council for Mathematical Sciences offers further information on careers in mathematics.

Recent graduates from our BSc Mathematics with Computing course have found employment as:

Junior software programmers
Web designers
Web developers

We also work with our University's Student Development Team to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.

Entry requirements

Clearing entry requirements

We currently have places available in Clearing across a range of our courses, with many of our courses available with a foundation year. We consider each application individually but as clearing entry requirements may change throughout the day as our places fill, we would recommend getting in touch with us as soon as you can to see if we can make you an offer.

If you are interested in applying and have already received your results, use our Clearing application form to apply for 2023 entry and find out if you are eligible. You will be asked to provide details of your qualifications and grades.

English language requirements

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 5.5 overall. Specified component grades are also required for applicants who require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK.

Other English language qualifications may be acceptable so please contact us for further details. If we accept the English component of an international qualification then it will be included in the information given about the academic levels required. Please note that date restrictions may apply to some English language qualifications

If you are an international student requiring a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK please see our immigration webpages for the latest Home Office guidance on English language qualifications.

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

Our Year 0 courses are only open to UK and EU applicants. If you’re an international student, but do not meet the English language or academic requirements for direct admission to your chosen degree, 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.

Structure

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.

Your course structure could differ based on the modules you choose.

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. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to significant disruption, or in response to COVID-19, 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:

100

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.

AU: Autumn term
SP: Spring term
SU: Summer term
FY: Full year
AP: Autumn and Spring terms
PS: Spring and Summer terms
AS: Autumn and Summer terms

COMPONENT 01: B

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.

View Essential Mathematics on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 02: B

Research and Academic Development Skills

(30 CREDITS)

This blended-learning 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 Research and Academic Development Skills on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 03: B

Mathematical Methods and Statistics

(30 CREDITS)

Develop your problem solving skills in this module, as you are introduced to Statistical and Mathematical concepts with a particular focus on mechanics. You become familiar with R software, one of the most widely used statistical analysis software in the world, and learn how to use it to analyse and interpret data. You study simple concepts and techniques like data description and distribution; before moving on to more complex topics and theories including Newton’s laws of motion and the concepts of Mechanical energy. While also covering everything from probability rules and hypothesis testing to advanced algebra – you will be well equipped to present your solutions and findings to an audience with no specialist knowledge of Statistics and Mechanics.

View Mathematical Methods and Statistics on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 04: B

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.

View Computer Programming on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 01: B

Introduction to Programming

(15 CREDITS)

The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts of computer programming. After completing this module, students will be expected to be able to demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles and concepts that underlie the procedural programming model, explain and make use of high-level programming language features that support control, data and procedural abstraction. Also, they will be able to analyse and explain the behaviour of simple programs that incorporate standard control structures, parameterised functions, arrays, structures and I/O.

View Introduction to Programming on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 02: B

Object-Oriented Programming

(15 CREDITS)

Want to become a Java programmer? Topics covered in this module include control structures, classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, interfaces, file I/O, event handling, graphical components, and more. You will develop your programming skills in supervised lab sessions where help will be at hand should you require it.

View Object-Oriented Programming on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 03: B

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.

View Calculus on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 04: B

Statistics I

(15 CREDITS)

How do you apply the addition rule of probability? Or construct appropriate diagrams to illustrate data sets? Learn the basics of probability (combinatorial analysis and axioms of probability), conditional probability and independence, and probability distributions. Understand how to handle data using descriptive statistics and gain experience of R software.

View Statistics I on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 05: B

Matrices and Complex Numbers

(15 CREDITS)

You'll be introduced to a range of important concepts which are used in all areas of mathematics and statistics. This module is structured in such a way that during learning sessions you'll develop good practical understanding of these concepts via discussion and exercises, and have an opportunity to ask questions. Theory is introduced via recorded videos and the corresponding notes published on Moodle, and also via recommendations of textbooks. The contact hours are dedicated to interactive activities such as lab exercises and flipped lecture quizzes; also you will have some additional formative tests in Moodle.

View Matrices and Complex Numbers on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 06: C

Mathematical and Computational Modelling

(15 CREDITS)

This module introduces you to programming skills in the context of a range of mathematical modelling topics. Mathematical modelling skills will be an important focus alongside learning how to structure and implement codes in both Matlab and R. A key part of the module will be investigative open-ended computational modelling studies at both the group and individual level.

View Mathematical and Computational Modelling on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 07: C

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.

View Discrete Mathematics on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 08: C

Mathematics Careers and Employability

(0 CREDITS)

What skills do you need to succeed during your studies? And what about after university? How will you realise your career goals? Develop your transferable skills and experiences to create your personal profile. Reflect on and plan your ongoing personal development, with guidance from your personal advisor within the department.

View Mathematics Careers and Employability on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 01: C

Application Programming

(15 CREDITS)

This module extends the students' knowledge and skills in object-oriented application programming by a treatment of further Java language principles and of important Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). The Java Collections API is explored in some more detail with emphasis on how to utilise these classes to best effect. A particular focus will be on the interaction with databases (e.g. via JDBC) and on writing secure applications.

View Application Programming on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 02: C

Data Structures and Algorithms

(15 CREDITS)

Data structures and algorithms lie at the heart of Computer Science as they are the basis for the efficient solution of programming tasks. In this module, students will study core algorithms and data structures, as well as being given an introduction to algorithm analysis and basic computability.

View Data Structures and Algorithms on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 03: C

Linear Algebra

(15 CREDITS)

How do you prove simple properties of linear space from axioms? Can you check whether a set of vectors is a basis? How do you change a basis and recalculate the coordinates of vectors and the matrices of mapping? Study abstract linear algebra, learning to understand advanced abstract mathematical definitions.

View Linear Algebra on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 04: C

Statistics II

(15 CREDITS)

In this module you'll be introduced to the basics of probability and random variables. Topics you will discuss include distribution theory, estimation and Maximum Likelihood estimators, hypothesis testing, basic linear regression and multiple linear regression implemented in R.

View Statistics II on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 05: C

Real Analysis

(15 CREDITS)

How can we rigorously discuss notions of infinity and the infinitely small? When do limits and derivatives of functions make sense? This module introduces the mathematics which enables calculus to work, with the epsilon-and-delta definition of limits as its cornerstone. Fundamental theorems are proved about sequences and series of real numbers, and about continuous and differentiable functions of a single real variable.

View Real Analysis on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 06: C

Optimisation (Linear Programming)

(15 CREDITS)

Are you able to solve a small linear programming problem using an appropriate version of the Simplex Algorithm? Learn to formulate an appropriate linear programming model and use the MATLAB computer package to solve linear programming problems. Understand the methods of linear programming, including both theoretical and computational aspects.

View Optimisation (Linear Programming) on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 07: C

Numerical Methods

(15 CREDITS)

How can we solve a problem that does not have a nice pen-and-paper solution? How do we ensure our computers use the available data efficiently to deliver accurate and reliable results? Understand the practical techniques for carrying out numerical computations on a range of mathematical problems. Build your knowledge of mathematical computing. Learn how to implement and execute algorithms in Matlab.

View Numerical Methods on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 08: H

(15 CREDITS)

COMPONENT 09: C

Mathematics Careers and Employability

(0 CREDITS)

View Mathematics Careers and Employability on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 01: C

Complex Variables

(15 CREDITS)

Can you identify curves and regions in the complex plane defined by simple formulae? How do you evaluate residues at pole singularities? Study complex analysis, learning to apply the Residue Theorem to the calculation of real integrals.

View Complex Variables on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 02: H

(15 CREDITS)

COMPONENT 03: N

(30 CREDITS)

COMPONENT 04: N

(60 CREDITS)

COMPONENT 05: C

Mathematics Careers and Employability

(0 CREDITS)

View Mathematics Careers and Employability on our Module Directory

Fees and funding

Home/UK fee

£9,250 per year

International fee

£18,585 per year

Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

Home/UK fees and funding information

International fees and funding information

What's next

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.

2023 Open Days (Colchester Campus)

Saturday, October 28, 2023

Find out more

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.

Find out more about Clearing
Get to know us better at our Clearing events

Interviews

We don’t interview all applicants during Clearing, however, we will only make offers for the following courses after a successful interview:

BA Multimedia Journalism
BSc Nursing (Adult)
BSc Nursing (Mental Health)
BA Social Work

The interview allows our academics to find out more about you, and in turn you’ll be able to ask us any questions you might have. Further details will be emailed to you if you are shortlisted for interview.

Apply now

Home to 15,000 students from more than 130 countries, our Colchester Campus is the largest of our three sites, making us one of the most internationally diverse campuses on the planet - we like to think of ourselves as the world in one place.

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If you live too far away to come to Essex (or have a busy lifestyle), no problem. Our 360 degree virtual tours allows you to explore our University from the comfort of your home. Check out our Colchester virtual tour and Southend virtual tour to see accommodation options, facilities and social spaces.

Our staff travel the world to speak to people about the courses on offer at Essex. Take a look at our list of exhibition dates to see if we’ll be near you in the future.

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.

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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.

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