BSc Mathematics

Mathematics has been called the Queen of the Sciences and is at the heart of most scientific and technological endeavour as well as being indispensable in many other walks of life. It is one of the most profound, beautiful and exciting areas of human thought, with a history stretching back over several millennia. In the 21st century it is expanding at an unparalleled rate, and bringing modern ideas and methods to bear on the solution of classical problems, frequently with spectacular success. It appeals to those who enjoy problem solving and clear thinking, skills which are highly prized by employers. Whether you have a burning desire to unlock the secrets of the primes or are looking to combine Mathematics with another area of interest, at Reading we offer a range of degree courses to suit every taste.

In this course we offer a wellrounded programme of study developing all the main aspects of this fundamental discipline to degree level. The central importance of mathematics to so many areas makes this degree course an ideal stepping stone to a very wide variety of career opportunities. The core material, upon which all else depends, is covered in the first two years. The final year offers a large range of options from which you will be able to select those areas, be they pure or applied, which are of most relevance and interest to you.

What will you study?

Year 1

Compulsory modules

Algebra I

Analysis I

Calculus methods

Linear algebra

Ordinary differential equations I

Probability

Vectors and matrices

Optional modules

Geometry

Scientific writing and mathematical programming

Statistical inference

Statistical methods

Plus options from other Departments

Year 2

Compulsory modules

Algebra II

Analysis II

Analysis in several variables

Communicating mathematics

Dynamics

Numerical methods

Ordinary differential equations II

Partial differential equations

Vector calculus

Year 3

Compulsory modules

Third-year project

Complex analysis I & II

Optional modules

Algebra III

Analysis and topology

Applied stochastic processes

Asymptotic methods I

Boundary value problems

Calculus of variations

Classical mechanics

Control systems

Dynamical systems

Fluid mechanics

Forensic statistics

Galois theory

Error correcting codes

History of mathematics

Mathematical biology

Mathematics for the digital economy

Modelling of soft matter

Number theory

Numerical techniques for integration and ordinary differential equations

Operational research techniques

The Lebesgue integral