BSc Mathematics with Computer Science

Develop your mathematical knowledge, gain key computational skills, and join the growing technological industry with our BSc Mathematics and Computer Science degree.

Gain desirable and in-demand skills across two disciplines and develop a thorough grounding in computer science, backed up by your in-depth mathematical knowledge.

With learning roughly split into two-thirds mathematics and one-third computer science, this flexible, industry-relevant degree - located in the heart of the UK's digital technology sector - aims to prepare you for a wide range of careers.

Topics of study in mathematics

You'll join the University of Reading's Department of Mathematics and Statistics, where 98% of our research is world leading or internationally excellent and 100% of our research impact has been classed outstanding or very considerable (REF 2021, combining 4* and 3* submissions – Mathematical Sciences).

During your studies you will look at the core topics of mathematics, extending your knowledge of differentiation and integration to greater dimensions. You will discuss the need for proofs in the rigorous study of mathematics, as well as exploring topics such as the famous ‘twin prime conjecture’.

Support for the transition to university-level mathematics will be provided through weekly tutorials. You will also be encouraged to get involved with the Department's Student Staff Partnership Group.

Your degree will meet the educational requirements of the Chartered Mathematician designation, awarded by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications when followed by subsequent training and experience in employment in order to obtain equivalent competences to those specified by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) for taught master's degrees.

Developing skills in computer science

You will acquire key computational skills, including programming in Python – one of the most popular programming languages in the world – focusing on how to use the programming language to write scripts for performing data analytics with large data sets. During your studies you will also learn about the fundamentals of programming and artificial intelligence, equipping you with practical problem-solving skills to tackle real-world problems.

Shaping your degree in BSc Mathematics with Computer Science

In your third year, you can tailor your studies to suit your developing interests and career aspirations. Explore complementary topics such as data mining, virtual reality, cryptography and number theory, without compromising your core set of knowledge and skills.

Mathematics and/or statistics project work will be required alongside your optional modules.

Placement opportunities

Both departments have strong industry links, ensuring that our students are regularly offered fantastic placement, work experience and career opportunities.

You can choose to undertake a summer placement to gain valuable insight and experience. Alternatively, you can opt for our four-year BSc Mathematics with Computer Science with a Placement Year degree, which incorporates a year in industry. Support and advice for securing placements will be provided by our dedicated placements officer.

Overview

Develop your mathematical knowledge, gain key computational skills, and join the growing technological industry with our BSc Mathematics and Computer Science degree.

Gain desirable and in-demand skills across two disciplines and develop a thorough grounding in computer science, backed up by your in-depth mathematical knowledge.

Topics of study in mathematics

Developing skills in computer science

Learning

Shaping your degree in BSc Mathematics with Computer Science

Mathematics and/or statistics project work will be required alongside your optional modules.

Placement opportunities

Both departments have strong industry links, ensuring that our students are regularly offered fantastic placement, work experience and career opportunities.

Entry requirements A Level ABC

Select Reading as your firm choice on UCAS and we'll guarantee you a place even if you don't quite meet your offer. For details, see our firm choice scheme.

Our typical offers are expressed in terms of A level, BTEC and International Baccalaureate requirements. However, we also accept many other qualifications.

Typical offer

ABC with an A in Maths, and if you place us as your Firm choice we will accept you with one grade lower than this, including accepting a B in Maths at A-level (e.g BBC with Maths at B or ABD with Maths at either A or B).

If you are studying an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in addition to your A levels and achieve a B in the EPQ we will accept ACC at A level with an A in Mathematics. If you place us as Firm choice we will accept BCC with a B in Mathematics alongside a B in the EPQ.

International Baccalaureate

30 points overall including 6 in Maths at higher level. If you place us as your Firm choice we will accept you with 28 points overall including 5 in Maths at higher level.

Extended Project Qualification

In recognition of the excellent preparation that the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) provides to students for University study, we can now include achievement in the EPQ as part of a formal offer.

BTEC

Not accepted unless studied alongside A level Maths. The BTEC Extended Diploma cannot be accepted on its own to cover the Maths subject requirement.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5, with no component below 5.5

For information on other English language qualifications, please visit our international student pages.

Alternative entry requirements for International and EU students

For country specific entry requirements look at entry requirements by country.

International Foundation Programme

If you are an international or EU student and do not meet the requirements for direct entry to your chosen degree you can join the University of Reading’s International Foundation Programme. Successful completion of this 1 year programme guarantees you a place on your chosen undergraduate degree. English language requirements start as low as IELTS 4.5 depending on progression degree and start date.

Learn more about our International Foundation programme

Pre-sessional English language programme

If you need to improve your English language score you can take a pre-sessional English course prior to entry onto your degree.

Find out the English language requirements for our courses and our pre-sessional English programme

Compulsory modules

Probability and Statistics

Understand probability and probability distributions, results and techniques for statistical reference and data science, and regression and hypothesis testing.

Calculus

Extend your existing knowledge of calculus into two or more dimensions, exploring techniques of ordinary differential equations of the first and second order and learning how programming has mathematical applications.

Foundations of Mathematics

Gain a solid introduction to fundamental topics in mathematics and develop the necessary skills to study mathematics at university-level. You’ll focus on the concept of sets, functions and various familiar number systems, as well as the importance of proofs and how to construct them.

Linear Algebra

Learn how to solve systems of linear equations, determine eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and develop the algebra of matrices which are used as a stepping-stone to the more general theory of liner and inner-product spaces.

Imperative Programming

Learn how to write small programs using Java, as well as basic algorithms and fundamental software development practices such as version control, specification and testing.

Object-Oriented Programming

Collaborate as a team to develop a program and use it to share and merge source code. As well as developing key programming skills, you’ll increase your abilities in complex problem solving.

These are the modules that we currently offer for 2024/25 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Compulsory modules

Differential Equations

Build on your knowledge of ordinary differential equations and explore partial differential equations and their applications. You’ll explore non-constant coefficients, integral and series solutions, Fourier series, the theory of boundary value problems, diffusion equations, wave equations and Laplace’s equation.

Artificial Intelligence

Apply fundamental methods in artificial intelligence to various real-world problems. You’ll expand your critical thinking skills to solve large problems, together with your writing skills for algorithm development and software implementation.

Mathematical Modelling and Professional Skills

Develop your problem-solving and independent research skills by applying mathematical modelling techniques to solve real-world problems across a broad range of scientific, engineering and economical areas. You’ll also expand your team-working, presentation, career management, technical, verbal and written communication skills.

Numerical Analysis I

Describe, analyse and implement numerical methods for problems in continuous mathematics, including solution of linear equations and nonlinear scalar equations, interpolation, scalar optimisation and solution of ordinary differential equations.

Programming in Python

Using Python programming languages, develop your skills and knowledge to use current tools in general program designs, development and data science. You’ll also develop transferable professional skills for a variety of fields that use programming.

Real Analysis I

Explore mathematical analysis concepts including inequalities, sequences, series and functions.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Compulsory modules

Portfolio of Projects

Conduct a series of projects on mathematical or statistical topics and develop your technical and professional skills.

Optional modules

Computer Graphics, Games and Virtual Reality

Study virtual reality in terms of scientific issues, application areas and strengths and weaknesses of the technology. You’ll use software to design virtual worlds and/or games and learn techniques for their creation using computer graphics.

Data Integration and Information Visualisation

Transform raw data into visual insights to develop your understanding of data integration. You’ll work with peers to critically reflect on design process and outcomes, using commercial software tools and writing professionally for software design documents.

Image Analysis and Visual Intelligence

Gain theoretical and practical knowledge of image analysis and computer vision by using real-world applications. You’ll develop professional skills such as problem solving, team-working, critical analysis, creativity and technical report writing for various audiences.

Blockchain and Security

Deploy blockchain for various applications, gaining a theoretical and practical understanding that develops your critical thinking, writing and design skills. You’ll reflect on rationale, benefits and potential societal and environmental impacts, specifically carbon emissions.

Text Mining and Natural Language Processing

Study the field of text mining and natural language processing, focusing on the theories and practice of processing text data from the aspects of lexicons, syntactics and semantics.

Methods of Machine Learning

Gain familiarity with the range of methods used in statistical machine learning and demonstrate how these are used in research and industry. You’ll have the opportunity to implement machine learning methods using statistical software and interpret and communicate your findings.

Number Theory and Cryptography

Explore a range of topics within number theory and cryptography, including the RSA cryptosystem and error correcting codes.

Applied Stochastic Processes

Learn how to solve problems using stochastic processes and concepts from a variety of applications, including molecular motion, population dynamics, weather and finances.

Partial Differential Equations and Applications

Examine partial differential equations and how they appear in practical applications and natural phenomena, in particular fluid mechanics, water waves and wave scattering theory.

Summer Placement

Gain experience applying for, and completing, a summer work placement or internship with an employer.

Linear Models and Data Analysis

Gain understanding of the most common models, including multiple linear regression and completely randomised designs, and explore the key principles of planned experiments. Learn how models are applied to practical problems and gain experience of real-life data analysis.

Advanced Statistical Modelling

Develop an understanding of situations in which different models are likely to be appropriate, learning more about generalised linear models, repeated measurement data, and traditional and modern approaches to data analysis.

Asymptotic Methods

Discover the basic ideas of asymptotic analysis and further develop your skills in solving a range of problems involving nonlinear equations, integrals and differential equations.

Numerical Analysis II

Motivate, develop and analyse a range of algorithms for the approximate solution of problems of continuous mathematics and techniques in numerical linear algebra.

Dynamical Systems and Applications

Analyse dynamical systems and their applications to real-world problems. You’ll explore systems of linear and nonlinear differential equations, and understand how they’re applied to biological issues such as population growth, cell systems, and the spread of infectious diseases.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Fees

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £9,250

New international students: £27.650

UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate tuition fees are regulated by the UK government. These fees are subject to parliamentary approval and any decision on raising the tuition fees cap for new UK students would require the formal approval of both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

Careers

Career paths and support

As a graduate, you could become a mathematician or statistician in the public or private sectors, such as: the Office for National Statistics; various heath authorities; in commerce; or information technology.

Other related careers that you could move into include:

accountancy
financial analysis
engineering
modelling
actuarial work.

Alternatively, you can move into research, teacher training or postgraduate studies.

Opportunities in the Thames Valley

Benefit from studying at the heart of the Thames Valley, the capital of the UK's high-tech industry. Located within a short distance of the University:

Microsoft
Oracle
Hewlett Packard
Intel
Fujitsu
Cisco
IBM.

These companies have recruited some of our best graduates directly through the University. IBM and EY even offer a mock assessment centre to aid your application and interview process before applying to their roles.

BSc Mathematics with Computer Science

UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

EU student fees

Additional costs

Financial support for your studies

Ready for more?