(BSc) Bachelor of Science
Mathematics with Computing (Including Year Abroad)
Current
University of Essex
University of Essex
Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science (School of)
Colchester Campus
Honours Degree
Full-time
Mathematics, Statistics and Operational Research
Computing
BSC G1G4
10/05/2023
Details
Professional accreditation
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.
Admission criteria
A-levels: ABB, including Mathematics
Please note we are unable to accept A-level Use of Mathematics in place of A-level Mathematics
BTEC: DDD, only in conjunction with A-level Mathematics.
IB: 32 points or three Higher Level certificates with 655. Either must include Higher Level Mathematics grade 5. We will accept 5 in either Higher Level Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or Higher Level Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation.
We are also happy to consider a combination of separate IB Diploma Programme Courses (formerly certificates) at both Higher and Standard Level. Exact offer levels will vary depending on the range of subjects being taken at higher and standard level, and the course applied for.
We can also consider combinations with BTECs or other qualifications in the Career-related programme – the acceptability of BTECs and other qualifications depends on the subject studied, advice on acceptability can be provided. Please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for more information.
Access to HE Diploma: 15 level 3 credits at Distinction and 30 level 3 credits at Merit, only in conjunction with A-level Mathematics.
T-levels: Distinction, only in conjunction with A-level Mathematics.
What if I don’t achieve the grades I hoped?
If your final grades are not as high as you had hoped, the good news is you may still be able to secure a place with us on a course which includes a foundation year. Visit our undergraduate application information page for more details.
What if I have a non-traditional academic background?
Don’t worry. To gain a deeper knowledge of your course suitability, we will look at your educational and employment history, together with your personal statement and reference.
You may be considered for entry into Year 1 of your chosen course. Alternatively, some UK and EU applicants may be considered for Essex Pathways, an additional year of study (known as a foundation year/year 0) helping students gain the necessary skills and knowledge in order to succeed on their chosen course. You can find a list of Essex Pathways courses and entry requirements here
If you are a mature student, further information is here
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) code
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall. Different requirements apply for second year entry, and specified component grades are also required for applicants who require a visa to study in the UK.
Other English language qualifications may be acceptable so please contact us for further details. If we accept the English component of an international qualification then it will be included in the information given about the academic levels listed above. Please note that date restrictions may apply to some English language qualifications
If you are an international student requiring a visa to study in the UK please see our immigration webpages for the latest Home Office guidance on English language qualifications.
If you do not meet our IELTS requirements then you may be able to complete a pre-sessional English pathway that enables you to start your course without retaking IELTS.
Additional Notes
If you’re an international student, but do not meet the English language or academic requirements for direct admission to this degree, you could prepare and gain entry through a pathway course. Find out more about opportunities available to you at the University of Essex International College here.
Course qualifiers
A course qualifier is a bracketed addition to your course title to denote a specialisation or pathway that you have achieved via the completion of specific modules during your course. The
specific module requirements for each qualifier title are noted below. Eligibility for any selected qualifier will be determined by the department and confirmed by the final year Board of
Examiners. If the required modules are not successfully completed, your course title will remain as described above without any bracketed addition. Selection of a course qualifier is
optional and student can register preferences or opt-out via Online Module Enrolment (eNROL).
None
Rules of assessment
Rules of assessment are the rules, principles and frameworks which the University uses to calculate your course progression and final results.
Additional notes
None
External examiners
Prof Stephen Langdon
Professor
Brunel University London
External Examiners provide an independent overview of our courses, offering their expertise and help towards our continual improvement of course content, teaching, learning, and assessment.
External Examiners are normally academics from other higher education institutions, but may be from the industry, business or the profession as appropriate for the course.
They comment on how well courses align with national standards, and on how well the teaching, learning and assessment methods allow students to develop and demonstrate the relevant knowledge and skills needed to achieve their awards.
External Examiners who are responsible for awards are key members of Boards of Examiners. These boards make decisions about student progression within their course and about whether students can receive their final award.
Programme aims
To equip students with the knowledge and skills that are currently in demand in mathematically oriented employment in business, commerce, industry, government service, the field of education and in the wider economy.
To provide students with a foundation for further study and research.
To produce graduates who are mathematically literate and capable of appreciating a logical argument.
To enable students to acquire a broad understanding of mathematics.
To provide teaching which is informed and enhanced by the research activities of its staff.
To encourage students to adopt an investigative approach and develop independent study skills in order to ensure their continuing professional development.
The programme introduces the students to some of the ideas and underlying theory of computer science, in particular they will learn to program in languages such as JAVA and C++.
Learning outcomes and learning, teaching and assessment methods
On successful completion of the programme a graduate should demonstrate knowledge and skills as follows:
A: Knowledge and understanding
A1: Knowledge and understanding of the basic mathematical methods and techniques of linear mathematics, calculus and statistics that underpin the study of more advanced mathematical ideas.
A2: Knowledge and understanding of some of the ideas and methods used in mathematical proof of results in algebra, analysis, and discrete mathematics and familiarity with some specific examples.
A3: Knowledge and understanding of the principles of computer programming and computer packages, and experience in their use.
A4: Knowledge and understanding of the use of mathematics for modelling and as an investigative tool for the solution of practical problems. An appreciation of the importance of assumptions.
A5: Knowledge of some aspects of computer science and in particular programming additional to those specified in A3 above selected from a range of module
A101: Experience of education in mathematics with computing in the year abroad.
Learning methods
Lectures are the principle method of delivery for the concepts and principles involved in A1-A5.
Students are also directed to reading from textbooks and material available online.
In some modules, understanding is enhanced through the production of a written report.
Understanding is reinforced by means of classes (A1-A5), laboratories (A3, A4) and assignments (A1-A5).
Outcome A101 is learnt during the year abroad.
Assessment methods
Achievement of knowledge outcomes is assessed primarily through unseen closed-book examinations and also, in some modules, through marked coursework, laboratory reports, statistical assignments, project reports and oral examinations.
Regular problem sheets provide formative assessment in most courses.
Outcome A101 is assessed by passing the year abroad.
B: Intellectual and cognitive skills
B1: Identify an appropriate method to solve a specific mathematical or computing problem.
B2: Analyse a given mathematical problem and select the most appropriate tools for its solution.
Learning methods
The basis for intellectual skills is provided in lectures and they are developed by means of recommended reading, guided and independent study, assignments and project work.
B1 and B2 are developed through exercises supported by classes.
B1-B2 are all-important aspects of the projects that constitute a part of some modules, and the optional final year project.
Assessment methods
Achievement of intellectual skills is assessed primarily through unseen closed-book examinations, and also through marked assignments and project work.
C: Practical skills
C1: Use computational tools and packages.
C2: The ability to apply a rigorous, analytic, highly numerate approach to a problem.
Learning methods
The practical skills of mathematics with computing are developed in exercise classes, laboratory classes, assignments and project work.
C1 is acquired through the learning of at least one programming language and the use of a number of computer packages, as a part of the teaching of modules for which they are relevant.
C2 is acquired and enhanced throughout the course.
Assessment methods
Achievement of practical skills is assessed through marked coursework and project reports and presentations.
D: Key skills
D1: Communicate effectively, both mathematical arguments and textual accounts of ideas.
D2: Use appropriate IT facilities as a tool in the analysis of mathematical problems.
D3: Use mathematical techniques correctly.
D4: Analyse complex problems and find effective solutions.
D5: Organise activity and manage time in the course of study.
Learning methods
D1 is practised throughout the course in the construction of solutions to mathematical and computing problems, both for assessment and as exercises, and (in some modules) writing reports and projects.
D1 and D2 are developed in group and individual project work.
D2 is also developed through the use of computer packages in a number of modules.
D3 -D5 are developed in exercises and assignments throughout the degree.
Assessment methods
D1 is assessed through examinations, coursework and oral examinations.
D2 is assessed primarily through coursework.
Assessment of the key skills D3 - D5 is intrinsic to subject-based assessment.
The assessment of MA829 and MA830 includes specific allocations of credit for the quality of presentations (D1 and D2).