Mathematics with Computer Science BSc (Hons)

University of Reading

Develop your knowledge of mathematics alongside key computational skills such as programming with our BSc Mathematics with Computer Science course.

The modern world is increasingly reliant on computers and digital information, and this degree will provide you with skills highly prized by a vast range of employers. You will be given a thorough grounding in computer science, backed up by an in-depth knowledge of mathematics. The split between the two subjects is roughly two-thirds mathematics and one-third computer science.

In mathematics you will study areas such as calculus, linear algebra, differential equations and numerical analysis. In the second year you will also take a skills module, which is aimed at improving your transferable skills and enhancing your employability.

You will be given plenty of support to help you get the most out of your studies, including small group problem-solving tutorials and materials to help you manage the transition to university-level mathematics. Additionally, you can get involved with the Department's Staff Student Forums and the Student Teaching and Learning Group, which enable you to have a direct input into the student experience.

In computer science, explore the essential skills for computer scientists, such as programming, software design, computer systems, networking and operations, web technology and computer security. Get to grips with several programming languages including C++, Java and Python.

In the final year of the degree you can develop your knowledge by exploring areas of interest in greater depth. The vast majority of modules in this year are optional and include subjects from both areas of the course such as data mining, cryptography, virtual reality or number theory. During this year you will also carry out a project on a mathematical topic and produce a report and presentation on it.

This programme will meet the educational requirements of the Chartered Mathematician designation, awarded by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications, when it is followed by subsequent training and experience in employment to obtain equivalent competences to those specified by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) for taught masters degrees.

Placement

You may choose to carry out a summer placement in an area such as finance or information technology in order to gain an insight into industry and valuable experience.

Alternatively, you can opt to take the four-year version of this course, incorporating a year in industry. You will be given advice and support for finding the ideal placement, as well for writing a CV and improving your interview skills, by our dedicated placements officer.

Careers

Your mathematical and computational knowledge, combined with teamwork and presentation skills, will make you highly desirable to a range of employers.

As a mathematics graduate, you can choose to work as a mathematician or statistician for public sector organisations, such as health authorities or the Office for National Statistics, or areas of the private sector, including commerce and information technology. Furthermore, you can move into a range of related careers such as accountancy, financial analysis, engineering, modelling or actuarial work.

Furthermore, Reading is at the heart of the Thames Valley; the capital of the UK’s high-tech industry. Top multinational businesses, such as Microsoft, Oracle, Hewlett Packard, Intel, Fujitsu, Cisco and IBM, are located within a short distance of the University. Many of these companies visit the University in order to directly recruit our best graduates. Companies such as IBM and Ernst and Young even provide a mock assessment centre, in which they put you through the paces of their recruitment process and give you valuable feedback before you actually apply for their jobs.

Alternatively you can choose to further develop your skills by moving into research, teacher training or postgraduate studies.