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Mathematics is important to the modern world. All quantitative science, including both physical and social sciences, is based on it. It provides the theoretical framework for physical science, statistics and data analysis as well as computer science. Our programmes reflect this diversity and the excitement generated by new discoveries within mathematics that affect not only the technicalities of science but also our general understanding of the world in which we live.
Overview
The programmes share a common core of Mathematics at Stage 1, and then move on to cover abstract, analytical and computational techniques that give you the opportunity to specialise in areas such as non-linear differential equations, computational algebra and geometry, financial mathematics, forecasting, design and analysis of experiments, inference and stochastic processes.
The MMath course is aimed at students who have a strong interest in pursuing a deeper study of mathematics with the flexibility to choose a wide range of optional modules to allow those who wish to specialise in a particular area the opportunity to do so.
The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate key mathematical knowledge and understanding and will prepare successful students with the depth of mathematical knowledge to enter postgraduate studies at the doctorate level in mathematics and other closely related subjects. A year of Masters level study in Stage 4 gives students the opportunity to explore more advanced topics, which draws on the School's highly rated research expertise.
Independent rankings
In the National Student Survey 2015, 93% of Mathematics students were satisfied with the overall quality of their course.
Course structure
The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules. You may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching
Lectures are given by a wide variety of lecturers all with different research backgrounds; small supervised example classes; computer laboratory classes, dissertation module. Teaching amounts to typically 16 hours of lectures and classes per week. Modules involving programming or working with computer software packages usually include practical sessions.
Assessment
Coursework involving problems; computer assignments; projects; tests; dissertation; written unseen examinations.
Programme aims
The programme aims to:
- provide an excellent quality of mathematical education, informed by research and scholarship
- equip students with a broad base of knowledge and skills to analyse and solve mathematically based problems showing a level of originality where necessary
- ensure students are competent in communicating the knowledge, rationale and conclusions, both orally and by writing
- ensure students are competent in the use of information technology and can use appropriate software to sovle problems
- develop in students the ability to work independently with a minimum amount of supervision within agreed guidelines
- prepare successful students with the depth of mathematical knowledge to enter postgraduate studies at the doctorate level in mathematics and other closely related subjects
- produce graduates of value to the region and nationally, in possession of key mathematical knowledge and personal skills, with the capacity to learn
Learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
You gain knowledge and understanding of:
- the fundamental concepts and techniques of calculus, algebra, analysis, geometry, differential equations, numerical mathematics and porbability and inference
- nonlinear phenomena and related mathematical methods
- applications of mathematical theories, methods and techniques to a range of associated problems
- the role of logical mathematical argument and deductive reasoning including formal process of mathematical proof
- more advanced material with mathematical ideas from more than one area
- project work on an advanced topic based on substantial independent work
Intellectual skills
You develop your intellectual skills in the following areas:
- the ability to demonstrate a reasonable understanding of mathematics
- the calculation and manipulation of the material written within the programme
- the ability to apply a range of concepts and principles in various contexts
- the ability to construct and develop mathematical logical argument
- the ability to solve mathematical problems by various appropriate methods
- the relevant computer skills
- the ability to work independently.
Subject-specific skills
You gain subject-skills in the following areas:
- the ability to demonstrate knowledge of key mathematical concepts and topics, both explicitly and by applying them to the solution of problems
- the ability to comprehend problems, abstract the essentials of problems and formulate them mathematically and in symbolic form so as to facilitate their analysis and solution
- the use of computational and more general IT facilities as an aid to mathematical processes
- the presentation of mathematical arguments and conclusions with clarity and accuracy.
Transferable skills
You gain transferable skills in the following areas:
- problem-solving skills, relating to qualitative and quantitative information
- communication skills
- numeracy and computational skills
- information-retrieval skills, in relation to primary and secondary information sources, including through on-line computer searches
- information technology skills such as word-processing, spreadsheet use and internet communication
- personal and interpersonal skills, work as a member of a team
- time-management and organisational skills, as shown by the ability to plan and implement effective modes of working
- study skills needed for continuing professional development.
Careers
Students studying this degree programme will develop a broad range of skills and mathematical understanding that are highly sought after by employers and which open up a wide variety of careers. MMath Mathematics graduates typically find employment in areas involving applications of the subject or they directly enter postgraduate studies at the doctoral level. Recent graduates of the School have gone into careers in medical statistics, the pharmaceutical industry, the aerospace industry, software development, teaching, Civil Service statistics, chartered accountancy, the oil industry and PhD training.
Entry requirements
Home/EU students
The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.
Students can also enter the MMath programme by transfer from the standard 3-year degree programmes at the end of Stage 2, provided they have passed the core modules and met the average mark threshold of Stage 2 of the MMath programme.
| Qualification | Typical offer/minimum requirement |
|---|---|
| A level | AAA including A in Mathematics (not Use of Mathematics). Only one General Studies and Critical Thinking can be accepted against the requirements |
| Access to HE Diploma | The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above. |
| BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma) | The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances. |
| International Baccalaureate | 34 points overall or 17 at HL including Mathematics HL 6 |
International students
The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements. See our International Student website for further information about our country-specific requirements.
Please note that if you need to increase your level of qualification ready for undergraduate study, we offer a number of International Foundation Programmes through Kent International Pathways.
English Language Requirements
International students will need to demonstrate their proficiency in English: Average 6.5 in IELTs test with minimum 6.0 in reading and writing or equivalent.
Please see our English language entry requirements web page.
General entry requirements
Please also see our general entry requirements.
Fees
The 2016/17 annual tuition fees for this programme are:
| UK/EU | Overseas | |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time |
For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.
The Government has announced changes to allow undergraduate tuition fees to rise in line with inflation from 2017/18.
The University of Kent is currently considering whether to increase its regulated full-time tuition fees for all returning Home and EU undergraduates from £9,000 to £9,250 in September 2017. This would be subject to us satisfying the Government's Teaching Excellence Framework and the access regulator's requirements. The equivalent part-time fees for these courses might also rise by 2.8%.
For students continuing on this programme fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.* If you are uncertain about your fee status please contact information@kent.ac.uk
Funding
Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Details of our proposed funding opportunities for 2016 entry can be found on our funding page.
General scholarships
Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.
The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence
At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence. For 2016 entry, the scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our scholarships pages. Please review the eligibility criteria on that page.