Mathematics and Philosophy BSc (Hons)

University of Keele

Mathematics and Philosophy combines two thought-provoking subjects that seek answers to big questions. You will engage with a carefully crafted curriculum that explores how mathematics plays a part in our everyday lives, from modelling fluid flows, to interpreting medical trials. Together with Philosophy, you will build analytical skills whilst investigating philosophical theories from around the world.

Why choose this course?

• Top 10 in England for Mathematics (National Student Survey, 2021)
• Graduate with broad range of transferable skills to succeed in a variety of careers
• Discover new ideas, debate big questions with your lecturers and peers, and better appreciate the views of others
• Research-led teaching, providing insight into new and traditional topics, developing your analytical skills
• Apply for an International Year at a partner university across the globe and discover diverse cultures

On this combined honours course in Mathematics and Philosophy you will have the opportunity to explore the core concepts and theories of these two fascinating and deeply connected subjects.

You will consider how mathematics can be applied to various aspects of the world we live in and gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals of this discipline, whilst philosophy poses big questions about right and wrong, human life and the nature of reality. You will explore the core areas of mathematics, including calculus, algebra and probability, as well as developing a solid foundation in mathematical methods and techniques so you can apply these principles to the real world.

Throughout the programme, you may also have the opportunity to explore pure mathematics, applied mathematics and statistics. To help develop the skills employers are looking for, you will also learn the programming language Python and understand how mathematics is used in a professional environment. You will also build your problem solving and abstract reasoning skills to a high level.

In Philosophy you will study texts, think about ideas and formulate your own philosophical theories. You will explore central themes – such as moral and political philosophy, logic, epistemology, and the philosophies of mind, religion and science – and will consider key philosophical problems about the nature of the world, the mind and various solutions proposed. You’ll learn about different philosophical traditions past and present, including Anglo-American, Indian, Buddhist, Greek, French and German philosophy. You’ll enhance your logical and critical thinking skills, and develop the use of sound arguments to defend your views, while detecting fallacies and other argumentative weaknesses.

About Keele

Keele University was established in 1949 by the former Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University. Founded to meet the needs of a changing world, Keele has always had a pioneering vision to be a different kind of university.

We excel in both teaching and research, with some of the most satisfied students in England, and research that is changing lives for the better at a regional, national and global level.

Our beautiful 600-acre campus is one of the biggest in Britain – but all the most important services and facilities are on your doorstep, with accommodation, teaching spaces, facilities including a medical centre, sports centre and pharmacy, and a range of shops, eateries and entertainment venues – including the Students’ Union – clustered around the centre.