Mathematics (4 years) MMath

Durham University

This course is ideal if you are considering postgraduate study or a career involving high-level mathematical skills or research.

When you choose maths you’ll be taught by a team of mathematicians with a passion for sharing the beauty of mathematics and a wealth of experience in research across the spectrum of pure and applied mathematics and statistics. And with many of the teaching team actively involved at the forefront of research, the degree is designed to link learning to research in distinctive and creative ways.

The first year of the course begins with a broad-based introduction to pure and applied mathematics, statistics and probability and provides a sound foundation for in-depth study in subsequent years. In the second and third years the structure offers more flexibility, enabling you to shape your degree around one specific area or continue developing your skills across a wide range of subjects.

During the final year the range of optional modules expands further, introducing more advanced concepts and theories. The degree culminates in a double-module project that gives you the opportunity to investigate a mathematical topic of interest in depth.

You can also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad to your degree, increasing the course from four years to five.

Year 1

The first year consists of 100 compulsory Mathematics credits:

• Analysis (20)
• Linear Algebra (20)
• Calculus (20)
• Programming (10)
• Dynamics (10)
• Probability (10)
• Statistics (10)

Together with a further 20 credits which can be chosen from:

• Discrete Mathematics (20)
• Any other available Sciences, Arts and Social Sciences modules (subject to prerequisites and timetabling)

In the Mathematics modules, topics that may be familiar from A level (or equivalent) are expanded and developed to help you adjust to university life, provide a sound foundation for your Mathematics degree and enable you to make informed choices when picking modules from second year onwards.

Year 2

In the second year, you will choose six Maths modules.

You will take two compulsory modules:

• Complex Analysis
• Analysis in Many Variables

Together with modules from a range which includes:

• Numerical Analysis
• Statistical Concepts
• Mathematical Physics
• Algebra
• A combination of two shorter courses on a wide range of mathematical topics – Elementary Number Theory, Probability, Mathematical Modelling, Geometric Topology, Monte Carlo, Actuarial Mathematics, and Special Relativity and Electromagnetism.

At this stage, you can begin to specialise in areas of pure mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics and probability although you can also maintain a wide range of options for the third year.

Year 3

In the third year you choose six from a wide choice of around 20 modules covering a variety of topics in areas such as algebra, geometry, topology, applied mathematics, mathematical physics, statistics and probability, together with options including Mathematical Finance, Mathematical Biology and Mathematics Teaching. Many of these topics are closely linked to and informed by current research.

Year 4

In the fourth year, you take a double module project, giving you the opportunity to investigate a mathematical topic of interest. You will produce a written report and poster and give a short presentation. This develops your research and communication skills which are very important for future employment or postgraduate studies. You also choose four taught modules from a wide variety of topics as in Year 3. Some but not all of these modules follow on from options in Year 3, allowing you to both advance and broaden your mathematical expertise approaching research level.

Placement Year