Computer Science and Mathematics

MSci
4 years full-time
Durham City
G425
Typical offers
A Level | A*AA |
---|---|
BTEC | D*DD |
International Baccalaureate | 38 |
Course details
The MSci Computer Science and Mathematics degree is meticulously crafted to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to thrive in the constantly changing data-driven workplace.
In our rapidly evolving world, the field of computer science stands as a driving force behind transformative technological breakthroughs that have reshaped our lives for the better. The skills demanded by today's dynamic tech sector demand a strong knowledge in mathematical fundamentals, statistics, and machine learning. During the first two years you will follow the same course structure as the BSc with an equal balance of Computer Science and Mathematics to ensure that the programme provides students with the essential foundation. From the third year, the MSci introduces a wider range of modules and an advanced project in the final year.
Cap off your academic journey with a choice between undertaking an advanced project, where you tackle a theoretical area or an applied problem in-depth , or our distinctive interdisciplinary enterprise module where you can delve into an area that resonates with your passions and leverages the skills honed within the course.
You will be taught by passionate researchers with diverse areas of expertise such as artificial intelligence, data science, fundamental algorithms, statistical uncertainty, statistical uncertainty, applied statistics for large-scale applications and applied algebra. The final-year advanced project is an opportunity to fully engage with the cutting-edge research being carried out in the departments.
State-of-the-art facilities further enhance the learning experience, providing students with access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities to engage in innovative research projects.
The Year 1 curriculum provides a foundation in the fundamentals of computer science, pure mathematics, statistics, and probability providing robust groundwork for advanced study in subsequent years.
Year 2 allows students to embark on an exploration of a diverse array of innovative technological applications. At the same time, this can be underpinned with a deep mathematical grounding in statistics and machine learning to provide the foundation on their academic journey for more advanced topics in statistics, artificial intelligence and data science or an alternative grounding in abstraction with applications in theoretical computer science.
The flexible structure, coupled with an array of optional modules, empowers you to tailor your academic trajectory in alignment with your evolving interests. Whether completing the programme in three years, opting for a placement year, or embarking on a year abroad, the choice is yours.
Course structure
Year 1 modules
Core modules:
Computational Thinking
explores the breadth of computer science and the ways in which the different topics are linked. You will learn the importance of computation and computational thinking in the modern world and the impact it has on technology advances in different settings.
Algorithms and Data Structures
introduces the theory and practice of problem-solving in computing through the development of algorithms and their associated data structures, for common computer science problems. Content included machine modelling, control flow structures and analysis of algorithms.
Calculus
builds on ideas of differentiation and integration in A level mathematics. The module begins with functions of a single variable before moving on to functions of several variables. Topics include methods of solving ordinary and partial differential equations, and an introduction to Taylor series, Fourier series and Fourier transforms.
Linear Algebra
presents mathematical ideas, techniques in linear algebra and develops the geometric intuition and familiarity with vector methods you will need for more challenging material later in the course.
Probability
introduces mathematical ideas on probability in preparation for more demanding material later in the course. The module builds problem solving skills through the exploration of a mathematical subject of relevance to the real-world (applied) that is based on rigorous mathematical foundations (pure).
Statistics
introduces frequentist and Bayesian approaches and demonstrates the relevance of these principles and procedures using real problems. This introductory module lays the foundations for all subsequent study of statistics.
Optional modules:
- Computer Systems
- Programming.
Year 2 modules
Optional modules:
- Theory of Computation
- Programming Paradigms
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Probability
- Statistical Modelling
- Statistical Inference
- Data Science and Statistical Computing
- Algebra
Year 3 modules
Core modules:
Project Preparation
You will work on essential research skills including researching a topic, writing, presenting, and begin preparation for the final-year Advanced Project in an area of your choice.
Optional modules:
- Algorithmic Game Theory
- Bioinformatics
- Deep Learning
- Human-AI Interaction Design
- Recommender Systems
- Reinforcement Learning
- Natural Computing Algorithms
- Advanced Statistical Modelling
- Bayesian Computation and Modelling
- Cryptography and Codes
- Decision Theory
- Machine Learning and Neural Networks
- Mathematical Finance
- Operations Research
- Stochastic Processes
- Science Enterprise
Year 4 modules
Core modules:
Either the Advanced Project in Computer Science or Mathematics Project
Your final-year project is a detailed and critical examination of a relevant area of computer science, mathematics or statistics. It is possible that the resulting research might be published in a journal or at a conference, possibly as a prelude to higher level studies.
Optional modules:
- Advanced Algorithms
- Applied Cryptography
- Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies
- Coding and Information Theory
- Learning Analytics
- Natural Language Processing
- Quantum Computing
- Randomised Algorithms and Probabilistic Methods
- Representation Theory
- Topics in Combinatorics
- High-Dimensional Statistics
- Uncertainty Quantification
- Nonparametric Statistics
- Deep Learning and Artificial Intelligence
Additional Pathways
Students can apply to be transferred onto either the with Year Abroad or with Placement pathway. Places on these pathways are in high demand and if you are chosen your studies will extend from three years to four or four to five depending on course.
Learning
Learning is centred in a modern purpose-built space containing lecture and seminar rooms, open-plan workspace, breakout areas, labs, and computer rooms.
For most modules, you will attend lectures supported by small-group tutorials, problem classes, homework problems, written and oral presentations, and individual projects. You will also take part in computer practicals where you put into practice what you learn in lectures.
We place great emphasis on high-quality small-group teaching, which includes one-on-one attention from your academic advisors, self-directed learning to develop your critical thinking skills, and collaborative working with other students.
As you move into Years 3 and 4 the focus on self-directed learning and independent research increases as you begin to prepare for professional or postgraduate life.
Assessment
Some modules are assessed entirely through coursework (which may involve problem solving exercises, practical work and assignments) and others by examination, while others are assessed using a combination of methods.
The final-year advanced project is an opportunity to bring your learning to a project of your choice. The project is a significant piece of independent research completed under the supervision of an academic from your chosen specialism.
Entry requirements
A level offer – A*AA
including either A*A in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level or A* in Maths plus A in AS Further Maths.
Contextual offer – AAB-A*AC-A*BB
EITHER AAB including AA in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level OR AAB including A in Maths plus A in AS Further Maths OR A*AC including either A*A in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level OR A*BB including A* in Maths plus A in AS Further Maths
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – D*DD and either A*A in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level or A* in Maths plus A in AS Further Maths (or equivalent) is required.
IB Diploma score – 38 points overall including 7 in Higher Level Mathematics (maths analysis & approaches) and 66 in two other Higher Level subjects.
In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:
- We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study.
- There is no advantage in applying for both MSci and BSc degrees.
- Entry requirements are the same for both MSci and BSc degrees.
- We do not include General Studies or Critical Thinking as part of our offer.
- We are pleased to consider applications for deferred entry.
Alternative qualifications
International students who do not meet direct entry requirements for this degree might have the option to complete an International Foundation Year.
Fees and funding
Full Time Fees
Home students | £9,535 per year |
---|---|
EU students | £33,250 per year |
Island students | £9,535 per year |
International students | £33,250 per year |
The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full-time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full-time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and will be subject to an annual inflationary increase expected to rise throughout the programme of study.
The fee listed above is for the first year of the course only; fees for subsequent years will be confirmed not less than 3 months before the start of the academic year to which the increase is intended to apply and will be published on the Finance webpages.
In deciding the annual level of increase, the University will take into account inflationary pressures on the costs of delivery. Tuition fees will rise annually by up to the higher of:
- 6%, or
- the latest annual percentage increase in the Consumer Prices Index.
Please also check costs for colleges and accommodation.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to supporting the best students irrespective of financial circumstances and are delighted to offer a range of funding opportunities.
Find out more about Scholarships and BursariesCareer opportunities
Natural Sciences
Graduates acquire a valuable range of subject-specific skills across disciplines with the capacity to make creative connections. They are highly employable in a diverse range of careers and sectors.
Natural Sciences graduates have the academic knowledge, flexibility and technical skills to take on roles including consulting, accounting, banking and investment, research, software engineer, data scientist, international development, and government.
(Source: HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey. The survey asks leavers from higher education what they are doing 15 months after graduation. Further information about the Graduate Outcomes survey can be found here www.graduateoutcomes.ac.uk)
Department information
Natural Sciences
Take a Joint-Honours degree or design your own bespoke qualification that allows you to combine subjects beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Real-world challenges often require multidisciplinary solutions. Our Natural Sciences degrees allow students to combine either traditional Joint-Honours degrees or transcend traditional subject boundaries, bringing together a range of ideas and disciplinary perspectives. You can study for a BSc or MSci. Both qualifications allow you to design your own degree, majoring in at least one science subject: Biology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Earth Sciences; Mathematics; Physics; and Psychology; with the possibility of studying a second science discipline, Anthropology, Business, Economics, Education, Geography, Philosophy or Sport & Exercise Sciences. Focus on two subjects from the outset, or choose a broader range of modules across three or four subjects. These highly flexible courses include the opportunity to undertake a year abroad or a placement year, to develop additional skills and enjoy new experiences.
Natural Sciences is a challenging and rewarding choice for science students who wish to study more than one subject.
For more information see our department pages.
Rankings
3rd The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
Staff
For a current list of staff, please see our department web pages.
Facilities
You will have access to a wide range of facilities across multiple departments. Facilities will depend on the subject specialism but include laboratories, libraries, project spaces, lecture theatres, study and networking spaces as well as shared social spaces. You will also benefit from excellent IT facilities including Learn Ultra, Durham’s virtual learning environment. You will have access to up to 1.6 million printed books, 25,000 eJournals and over 850,000 eBooks in the main library. Most departments are close to the historic centre of Durham which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Apply
Find out more:
Use the UCAS code below when applying:
Apply
G425
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