MathematicsBSc
Source: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027/mathematics-bsc Parent: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027
2027-28 entry View 2026-27 entry
Mathematics BSc
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
Tailor your degree to your interests and career goals with our BSc Mathematics course. Explore the topics that are important to you and gain the fundamental knowledge that every mathematician needs for a successful career.
- A Levels \ AAA
- UCAS code \ G100
- Duration \ 3 years
- Start date \ September
-
Attendance \ Full-time
- Funding available
- Optional placement year
- Study abroad
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Course description
Why study this course?
Top 10 in the UK for mathematics
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
1st in the Russell Group for academic support and assessment and feedback in mathematics
National Student Survey 2025
Opt to spend a full year on a work placement
Test out a career path, build up your CV and grow your network of contacts.
Summer research placements
Gain paid research experience through the Sheffield Undergraduate Research Experience or Undergraduate Research Internship schemes.
Through this three-year BSc Mathematics course you will develop the mathematical knowledge and advanced problem-solving skills needed to tackle some of the most intriguing maths problems.
In your first year you’ll focus on fundamental mathematical concepts. You’ll cover essential topics such as calculus, algebra, modelling and data science. Plus, you’ll hone your problem solving abilities, develop programming skills using Python and R, and learn to present your work as a professional mathematician using LaTeX.
In your second year you’ll develop your skill set further. In addition to core modules, you’ll have the chance to explore the areas of mathematics that are important to you, through optional modules covering topics such as algebraic structures, special relativity and stochastic modelling.
The final year of your degree is yours to shape through either a pure mathematics, applied mathematics, or probability and statistics pathway. You can choose to complement or replace one of these pathways with our mathematics and statistics project and skills module.
You’ll also have the freedom to explore different areas of mathematics through more in-depth optional modules on topics such as machine learning, number theory and cryptography, and financial mathematics. You’ll tailor your degree to your interests and aspirations, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a variety of careers.
Modules
We're revising the curriculum of the course for this year of entry. Your first year modules are confirmed. For other years of study, the information here gives you an idea of the areas we expect the course to cover, although there may be changes before you begin. As you progress through your course, we’ll confirm additional details for the core and optional modules available to you.
Title: Mathematics BSc course structure\ UCAS code: G100\ Years: 2026, 2027
First year
Second year
Third year
First year
Core modules:
Introduction to University Mathematics : This core module is designed to consolidate A-level material and explore topics in mathematics that you'll use throughout your degree. You'll also be introduced to core skills, such as mathematical literacy, communication and problem-solving. \ \ Throughout this module you'll develop a strong foundation in core mathematics. You'll consider techniques for solving equations, special functions, calculus, vectors, complex numbers, and finite and infinite series.
**20 credits**
Geometry, Matrices and Multivariate Calculus : This core module is designed to further develop your knowledge of the core mathematics you'll use across your degree.\ \
**20 credits**
Foundations of Pure Mathematics : The module aims to give an overview of basic constructions in pure mathematics; starting from the integers, we develop some theory of the integers, introducing theorems, proofs, and abstraction. This leads to the idea of axioms and general algebraic structures, with groups treated as a principal example. The process of constructing the real numbers from the rationals is also considered, as a preparation for “analysis”, the branch of mathematics where the properties of sequences of real numbers and functions of real numbers are considered.
**20 credits**
Probability and Data Science : Probability theory is branch of mathematics concerned with the study of chance phenomena. Data science involves the handling and analysis of data using a variety of tools: statistical inference, machine learning, and graphical methods. The first part of the module introduces probability theory, providing a foundation for further probability and statistics modules, and for the statistical inference methods taught here. Examples are presented from diverse areas, and case studies involving a variety of real data sets are discussed. Data science tools are implemented using the statistical computing language R.
**20 credits**
Optional modules: A student will take 40 credits (two modules) from this group.
Mathematical Investigation Skills : This module introduces topics which will be useful throughout students’ time as undergraduates and in employment. These skills fall into two categories: computer literacy and presentation skills. One aim of this module is to develop programming skills within Python to perform mathematical investigations. Students will also meet the typesetting package LaTeX, the web design language HTML, and Excel for spreadsheets. These will be used for making investigations, and preparing reports and presentations into mathematical topics.
**20 credits**
Mathematical modelling : Mathematics is the language of science. By framing a scientific question in mathematical language, it is possible to gain deep insight into the empirical world. This module aims to give students an appreciation of this astonishing phenomenon. It will introduce them to the concept of mathematical modelling via examples from throughout science, which may include biology, physics, environmental sciences, and more. Along the way, a range of mathematical techniques will be learned that tend to appear in empirical applications. These may include (but not necessarily be limited to) difference and differential equations, calculus, and linear algebra.
**20 credits**
Students can also select 20 credits of Languages for All modules.
Second year
In your second year, you’ll continue to build your fundamental knowledge of mathematics, which you’ll apply to increasingly complex problems.
Example core modules:
- Linear Algebra and Advanced Calculus
- Analysis
- Statistical Inference and Modelling
- Differential Equations
You’ll also have the opportunity to enhance your knowledge of pure mathematics, applied mathematics and statistics through optional modules covering topics such as algebraic structures, special relativity and stochastic modelling.
Third year
In your third year, you’ll develop your expertise in the areas of mathematics that appeal to you most by choosing a specialist pathway. You can also choose to take our mathematics and statistics project and skills module to either complement or replace one of these pathways.
Pure mathematics pathway example modules:
- Metric Spaces and Measure Theory
- Topics in Algebra
Applied mathematics pathway example modules:
- Mathematical Biology
- Mathematical Physics and Analytical Dynamics
Probability and statistics pathway example modules:
- Bayesian Statistics and Generalised Linear Models
- Medical Statistics and Sampling Theory
You’ll have the opportunity to tailor your degree to your interests by choosing from a range of optional modules, including topics such as financial mathematics, machine learning, knot theory, and operations research and game theory.
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Learning and assessment
Learning
To make sure you get the skills and knowledge that every mathematician needs, you’ll learn through lectures, small group tutorials and problems classes, and research projects. Some modules also involve programming classes.
We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 access to our online library service.
Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over one million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.
Learning support facilities and library opening hours
Assessment
You’ll be assessed in a variety of ways, depending on the modules you take. This could include examinations, quizzes, coursework, projects, presentations, and participation in tutorials.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
- Standard offer
- Access Sheffield offer
Standard offer
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\ AAA \ including Maths
A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification : AAB, including A in Maths + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including A in Maths + B in A Level Further Maths
International Baccalaureate : 36, with 6 in Higher Level Maths; 34, with 6 in Higher Level Maths, and A in the Extended Essay
BTEC Extended Diploma : D*DD in Engineering with Distinctions in all Maths units
BTEC Diploma : DD + A in A Level Maths
T Level : Not accepted
Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s : AAAAB + A in Maths
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels : A + AA, including Maths
Access to HE Diploma : Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 39 at Distinction (to include 12 Maths units), and 6 at Merit
Other requirements
- We will give your application additional consideration if you have passed the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP), STEP 2 or STEP 3, at grade 3 or above. We do not consider STEP results in place of a third A Level
Access Sheffield offer
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\ AAB \ including A in Maths
A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification : AAB, including A in Maths + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including A in Maths + B in A Level Further Maths
International Baccalaureate : 34, with 6 in Higher Level Maths
BTEC Extended Diploma : DDD in Engineering with Distinctions in all Maths units
BTEC Diploma : DD + A in A Level Maths
T Level : Not accepted
Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s : AAABB + A in Maths
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels : B + AA, including Maths
Access to HE Diploma : Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (to include 12 Maths units), and 9 at Merit
Other requirements
- We will give your application additional consideration if you have passed the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP), STEP 2 or STEP 3, at grade 3 or above. We do not consider STEP results in place of a third A Level
English language requirements |
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
Pathway programme for international students
If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities or Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield International College. These courses are designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school.
Graduate careers
You won’t be short of career options with a degree in mathematics from Sheffield. Our courses are designed to give you the skills that will help you succeed. Employers hire our graduates because of their ability to analyse problems and reach a solution in a clear, precise and logical way.
A mathematics degree from Sheffield can take you far, whether you want a job that involves doing lots of complex calculations or one where you help to find the best solutions to real-world problems.
Strong mathematical skills open all kinds of doors, including:
- Finance and banking
- Data science and consultancy
- Computing and software development
- Public sector roles in healthcare and government
- Teaching
Our graduates have gone on to work for companies such as Aviva, Dell, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs, HMRC, IBM, KPMG, NatWest, the NHS, PwC and Sky.
Many of our graduates also choose to pursue a career in research and go on to do PhDs at some of the world's top 100 universities.
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
96 per cent of our mathematical sciences research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
Research Excellence Framework 2021
The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is leading the way with groundbreaking research and innovative teaching.
Our mathematicians and statisticians have expertise across pure mathematics, applied mathematics, probability and statistics. We focus on a variety of topics, from the most abstract questions in number theory to the calculations helping to understand climate change.
To help our students feel part of a community, the Sheffield University Mathematics Society, SUMS, organise activities ranging from charity fundraisers to nights out. Our students can also take part in problem-solving sessions, the Sheffield Space Initiative, an LGBT+ support group, and a crafts group.
Mathematics and statistics students are based in the Hicks Building, which has classrooms, lecture theatres, computer rooms, study spaces and social spaces.
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
University rankings
A world top-100 university\ QS World University Rankings 2026 (92nd)
Number one in the Russell Group (based on aggregate responses)\ National Student Survey 2025
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent\ Research Excellence Framework 2021
University of the Year for Student Experience\ The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
Number one Students' Union in the UK\ Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
Number one for Students' Union\ StudentCrowd 2025 University Awards
20th in the UK targeted by the largest number of Top 100 Employers in 2025-26\ High Fliers 2026
Student profiles
[This nurturing environment instilled in me a profound appreciation for inquiry and the relentless pursuit of knowledge
Zidong Chen
Undergraduate research experience, \ BSc Mathematics](https://sheffield.ac.uk/mps/undergraduate/maths-student-profiles/zidong-chen)
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Examples of what’s included and excluded
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
£2,500 per year scholarships for international students
We're offering automatic scholarships worth up to £10,000 to overseas fee-paying students starting their studies in September 2026 - no additional application required.
Placements and study abroad
Placement
You may have the opportunity to add an optional placement year as part of your course, converting the three-year course to a four-year Degree with Placement Year.
A placement year will help you to:
- gain an insight into possible careers
- develop a range of transferable skills
- build a professional network
- get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
- add valuable work experience to your CV
- gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
- apply elements of academic learning in the workplace
Our students have secured placements with a range of organisations, including Dyson, Deloitte, the Department for Work and Pensions, Jaguar Land Rover, Morgan Stanley, Network Rail, RSM, and the House of Commons.
Research experience
Develop your research skills through the Sheffield Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) and Undergraduate Research Internship (UGRI) schemes. These initiatives give students the opportunity to gain paid research experience over the summer, working with an academic in one of our research groups on the SURE scheme or a PhD student on the UGRI scheme.
Study abroad
Spending time abroad during your degree is a great way to explore different cultures, gain a new perspective and experience a life-changing opportunity that you will never forget.
You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually between the second and third year. We have over 250 University partners worldwide. Popular destinations include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Find out more on the Global Opportunities website.
Visit
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Online events
Join our weekly Sheffield Live online sessions to find out more about different aspects of University life.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\ www.ucas.com
Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.
Contact us
Start a conversation with us – you can get in touch by email, telephone or online chat.
Contacts for prospective students
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.
Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer
2027-2028
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\ www.ucas.com
Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.
Tailor your degree to your interests and career goals with our BSc Mathematics course. Explore the topics that are important to you and gain the fundamental knowledge that every mathematician needs for a successful career.
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