Mathematics and Statistics BSc (Hons)

In the second year you will have the chance to develop the mathematics and statistics which you started to study in year one, concentrating on a core of algebra, calculus and statistic, and at this stage you will have the option of extending your study to include operational research, or to develop the applicable mathematics from year one.

Modules

• Further Algebra and Calculus - 20 credits

  The primary aims of the module are to provide underpinning mathematical methods and an introduction to abstract algebra (including some number theory), providing a first serious exposure to axiomatically defined mathematical structures and showing how they can be applied to combinatorial problems.

  Compulsory

• Statistical Computing - 20 credits

  This module aims to introduce you to R (statistical programming language) and SPSS (statistical software package) and give you the skills and confidence to use both packages competently and professionally for data analysis.

  Compulsory

• Discrete Maths - 20 credits

  This module intends to introduce basic facts on discrete Mathematics and Stochastic processes.

  Compulsory

• Linear Statistical Models - 20 credits

  This module will introduce two of the most used statistical techniques, multiple regression, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The ideas of statistical inference and statistical modelling will be thoroughly explored and expanded. A statistical package will be used throughout.

  Compulsory

• Professional and Academic Skills 2 - 10 credits

  This module provides the focus for you to continue developing your professional competencies including personal development planning and reflection, independent learning, report writing, and presentation skills.

  Compulsory

• Add+vantage module - 10 credits

  You will also be able to take an Add+vantage module which can allow you to develop your CV by taking credits in an area of study that doesn’t have to be related to your degree. The assessment type will depend on the type of Add+vantage module you wish to take.

  Compulsory

  Assessment: Coursework and exam

• Optional modules

  Choose one of the following:

  Variational Methods and Numerical Analysis - 20 credits

  This module consists of study of the mathematical techniques of Variational Methods with the application to problems in physics. This involves situations where the maximum or minimum of a function are themselves a function and not a number.

  Differential Equations - 20 credits

  The module provides concepts and methods of solution of systems ordinary differential equations, including linear and nonlinear systems, qualitative theory, phase space, phase portraits, trajectories, and an introduction to the bifurcation theory for parametrized equations.

  Operational Research Techniques - 20 credits

  Operational Research concerns the application of certain mathematical methods that are useful for solving a variety of decision-making problems. The techniques developed also aim to improve the efficiency of processes and management of complex systems. 

  Optional

Following successful completion of your second year, you will have an option to apply for a one-year professional work placement or study abroad in a partner institution

If you wish to undertake the optional study abroad/placement year, you will take either the Placement Year module or the Study Abroad Year module which both typically run for a full academic year between years 2 and 3 of your course. You are normally able to progress onto the relevant module if you have successfully completed the first two years of the course (i.e. having accumulated 240 credits) and have a confirmed opportunity two weeks prior to the start of the academic year, however we encourage international students to confirm their placements earlier to ensure they are able to meet any applicable visa requirements.

Students opting for either the work placement or study abroad will take an academic module in which they reflect on their experiences. The module appears on a student’s transcript as a zero credit module. They will be supported by the university’s Talent Team throughout the process and will be allocated a tutor who will keep in touch. No tuition fees apply to the placement or study abroad year.

Modules

• Optional Work Placement

  Optional

• Study Abroad

  Optional

The final year should continue to deepen your specialist knowledge, incorporating areas such as optimisation and statistical design, and a choice of optional modules from topics such as financial mathematics and cryptography.

You will also engage in a dissertation project carrying out in-depth statistical investigations in a field that interests you, under the supervision of one of our statisticians. Recent statistics project topics have included modelling of football data, medical data and environmental data.

Modules

• Statistical Design and Modelling - 20 credits

  This module builds on the regression and ANOVA techniques introduced in previous modules. It will consider Generalised Linear Models such as logistic regression and log-linear models for analysing binary and count data.

  Compulsory

• Project - 20 credits

  This module forms a major individual study at the honours level. You will take the responsibility of managing such a study through all its stages. The project will develop the skills of enquiry, research and innovation and enhances the critical and communication skills of the student.

  Compulsory

• Advanced Linear Algebra and its Applications – 10 credits

  The aim of this module is to develop your knowledge of further topics in linear algebra and their applications, and to develop independent learning, teamwork, and presentation skills.

  Compulsory

• Add+vantage module - 10 credits

  You will also be able to take an Add+vantage module which can allow you to develop your CV by taking credits in an area of study that doesn’t have to be related to your degree. The assessment type will depend on the type of Add+vantage module you wish to take.

  Compulsory

  Assessment: Coursework and exam

• Optional modules

  Choose one from the following:

  Optimization – 20 credits

  This module discusses the mathematics behind optimisation problems with discrete and continuous variables and with as well as without constraints.

  Business Simulation – 20 credits

  This module aims to enable you to learn the theory of computer simulation and process modelling, how it is used, tools and techniques for logic modelling for solving of real-life problems.

  Also. choose two from the following:

  Financial Mathematics – 20 credits

  The first aim of this module is to introduce you to the main instruments that are traded in the financial marketplace and to their practical uses for investment, hedging and speculation. The second is to equip you with an understanding of mathematical models and solution techniques that are currently used in the newly emerging field of financial engineering.

  Cryptography and Information Theory – 20 credits

  This module provides you with a fundamental knowledge of contemporary mathematical communication theory, ranging from entropy as a measure of information, through robust methods of encoding data via error correcting codes, to means of making messages secure by encryption.

  Advanced Topics in Statistics – 20 credits

  On completion of this module, you should be able to critically examine data as well as choose and apply appropriate statistical analyses using a range of advanced statistical methods.

  Optional