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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.
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. It offers the flexibility to choose a wide range of optional modules, allowing those who wish to specialise in a particular area the opportunity to do so.
The programme provides opportunities 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 doctoral level in mathematics and other closely related subjects. A year of Master's-level study in Stage 4 gives you the opportunity to explore more advanced topics, which draw on the highly rated research expertise of the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science.
Independent rankings
Mathematics at Kent was ranked 19th for course satisfaction in The Guardian University Guide 2017. For graduate prospects, Mathematics was ranked 19th in The Complete University Guide 2017.
Course structure
The following modules are indicative of those offered on this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.
On most programmes, you study a combination of compulsory and optional modules. You may also be able to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes so you can customise your programme and explore other subjects that interest you.
Teaching and assessment
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. Lectures are given by a wide variety of lecturers, all with different research backgrounds.
Assessment is carried out by means of: coursework involving problems; computer assignments; projects; tests; and written examinations. MMath students complete a dissertation as part of their Stage 4 studies.
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 solve 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 probability 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
- calculation and manipulation of the material within the programme
- the application of 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-specific 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 online computer searches
- information technology skills such as word-processing, spreadsheet use and internet communication
- personal and interpersonal skills needed to 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 open up a wide variety of careers. MMath Mathematics graduates typically find employment in areas involving applications of the subject or 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 three-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 Mathematics (not Use of Mathematics). Either General Studies or Critical Thinking (but not both) can be accepted against the requirements. |
| Access to HE Diploma | The University will not necessarily make conditional offers to all Access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If we make you an offer, you will need 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 for further advice on your individual circumstances. |
| International Baccalaureate | 34 points overall or 17 points at HL including Mathematics 6 at HL |
International students
The University welcomes applications from international students. Our international recruitment team can guide you on entry requirements. See our International Student website for further information about entry requirements for your country.
If you need to increase your level of qualification ready for undergraduate study, we offer a number of International Foundation Programmes.
Meet our staff in your country
For more advise about applying to Kent, you can meet our staff at a range of international events.
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.
Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes through Kent International Pathways.
General entry requirements
Please also see our general entry requirements.
Fees
The 2017/18 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.
UK/EU fee paying students
The Government has announced changes to allow undergraduate tuition fees to rise in line with inflation from 2017/18.
In accordance with changes announced by the UK Government, we are increasing our 2017/18 regulated full-time tuition fees for new and returning UK/EU fee paying undergraduates from £9,000 to £9,250. The equivalent part-time fees for these courses will also rise from £4,500 to £4,625. This was subject to us satisfying the Government's Teaching Excellence Framework and the access regulator's requirements. This fee will ensure the continued provision of high-quality education.
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.*
The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.
General additional costs
Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.
Funding
University funding
Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details.
Government funding
You may be eligible for government finance to help pay for the costs of studying. See the Government's student finance website.
The Government has confirmed that EU students applying for university places in the 2017 to 2018 academic year will still have access to student funding support for the duration of their course.
Scholarships
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. The scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages.
The scholarship is also extended to those who achieve AAB at A level (or specified equivalents) where one of the subjects is either Mathematics or a Modern Foreign Language. Please review the eligibility criteria.