Mathematics BSc (Hons)

Sheffield Hallam University

Please check the Sheffield Hallam University website for the latest information.

Course summary

Here at Sheffield Hallam we provide the knowledge, digital and communication skills necessary for a mathematical career. The focus of the course is the application of mathematical and statistical understanding to a range of real world problems - such problems are rarely presented in a neat mathematical form, and on our course you will learn the techniques needed to describe and solve such problems.

You could be modelling the spread of infectious diseases, simulating the flow of traffic or people, predicting the future behaviour of stock markets, protecting your digital data using cryptography, or working directly with companies to analyse their data.

How you learn

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

Our approach to learning is often innovative, research-led, and responsive to student feedback.

Our custom-designed learning space enables us to work in small groups, individually, or as a whole class. Many of our sessions are a highly interactive workshop style, mixing lecturer led activity and student exercises.

We use technology to carry out routine calculations, whilst developing your understanding of the underlying techniques.

You will develop skills and become proficient in using industry leading software packages such as Excel, SAS and Python.

In addition to exams, a variety of coursework designed to develop employability skills is incorporated into the course.

Applied learning

Work placements

You will have the opportunity to undertake a placement in your third year. There is a dedicated team that will support you in applying for positions. This is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience in the workplace and to develop the mathematical, statistical and graduate skills that you have acquired in your studies. In previous years, our students have done year long placements with companies such as Parexel, Covance, HSBC, the Civil Service, the RAF, and Cummins.

Live projects

Mathematical sciences including areas such as mathematical modelling, machine learning, and AI is one of the fastest growing industries, with many companies looking to employ graduates with an ability to understand and communicate mathematical and statistical information. Therefore, real-life case studies are embedded into our teaching, alongside essential skills such as software programming, reporting and presenting results to a non-technical audience.

You will also be given the opportunity to take part in real-life projects, such as working on a problem with a local business or charity in the first year of study and a project/dissertation in your final year of study allowing you to apply knowledge gained earlier in the course. A broad range of topics are on offer from looking at maths anxiety in schools; modelling the spread of disease; problems in cryptography and space. You can also choose a project/dissertation topic set by a real company. If you take this option, our support team will help you to arrange this, and you will liaise with both your supervisor and contacts from the company to complete your project.

Networking opportunities

We have a strong and supportive learning community, based on excellent staff-student relations. You’ll study in a shared maths learning space, designed to combine student workspace with staff office space. As well as having easy access to your lecturers, you’ll work closely with other students in a supportive environment.