TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Mathematics with Statistics

Combine your love of mathematics with cutting-edge statistical modelling and data analysis. Explore calculus, algebra and probability, then advance into simulations and modelling with real-world applications in medicine, finance and beyond.

Our typical offer

112 UCAS points

Research-informed teaching

Learn from research-active staff who apply mathematical methods to real-world challenges. Access to the High Performance Computer supports advanced research, especially in your final year.

Career-ready skills

Gain in-demand abilities like problem-solving, coding and communication. A paid placement year boosts employability – many students secure multiple job offers before graduating.

Supportive community

Enjoy a close-knit academic environment with small tutorials, approachable lecturers and an active Maths Society.
BSc (Hons) Mathematics with Statistics
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About

Maths student writing on a whiteboard. Getty 1638038378.

You don’t need to be a genius to study maths at university. If you enjoy tackling problems, asking questions, and learning with others, you can succeed here. At Plymouth, we provide students with the support and guidance needed to build confidence, develop practical skills, and go on to challenging, rewarding careers that make an impact.

Professor Alex Belton
Professor Alex Belton Head of School and substantive Professor of Mathematics
 
 

This course is for you if...

you want to sharpen your problem-solving skills and make sense of the world using logic, patterns and data
Head with jigsaw pieces inside
you look to gain skills and knowledge of mathematical software that employers value
Calculator
you're eager to gain hands-on experience and industry exposure during your studies
Hand holding two cogs
you enjoy being part of a close-knit, supportive and collaborative community
Group of three people with lightbulb above head

Details

Year 1

Statistics is the science of working with data. Statistics relies on mathematics, and statisticians with a deep knowledge of mathematics have interesting and highly varied careers. In your first year, you’ll build a solid mathematical foundation that underpins statistics and the rest of your degree. You won’t just learn the theory; you’ll master Python programming, one of the most in-demand skills in industry today, opening doors to cutting-edge careers in data science, finance, and technology. You will develop mathematical knowledge in calculus, matrices, and probability, and discover how computational mathematics can reveal powerful new insights from complex data.
Throughout the course, you will benefit from direct support from expert lecturers in small, friendly group sessions designed to give you a truly personalised experience. By the end of your first year, you’ll not only be primed for success on the course but you’ll have the freedom to tailor your journey, with the flexibility to switch to one of our other exciting specialist mathematics degrees if your interest change.
A newly refurbished room in the Babbage building with new computers.

Core modules

BPIE113
Stage 1 Mathematics Placement Preparation 0 credits

Undertaking a sandwich-year placement (also known as an industrial or work placement) offers many benefits, including valuable hands-on work-experience and enhanced employability. This module is for first-year students who may undertake a placement in their third year. It is designed to support students in exploring placement opportunities and developing the skills and knowledge required to successfully secure one.

MATH1701
Mathematical Reasoning 20 credits

This module will introduce the basic reasoning skills needed for the development and applications of modern mathematics. It also introduces Python as a new tool for exploring and applying mathematics to real world problems. The importance of logical thinking will be investigated in various mathematical topics. This will include fundamental properties of prime numbers, their random generation and use in cryptography.

60% Coursework

40% Tests

MATH1702
Calculus 20 credits

Calculus underpins mathematical modelling in science, finance and industry. This module gives students the ability to calculate accurately and efficiently. Key results are proven and calculus is extended to higher dimensions through partial differentiation and multiple integration. The methods covered in this module will be used by students throughout the rest of their degree.

60% Examinations

40% Coursework

MATH1703
Linear Algebra 20 credits

Vectors and matrices are fundamental in mathematics, and central to its applications in statistics, physics, data science, and engineering. This module develops practical skills in handling vectors and matrices, explores the mathematical structure of linear spaces, and elucidates their deep connections with analytic geometry.

60% Examinations

40% Coursework

MATH1704
Analysis and Group Theory 20 credits

In this module we explore two fundamental areas of pure mathematics. Analysis provides a rigorous foundation of calculus, while group theory introduces important algebraic structures that are used in many branches of pure mathematics and their applications. A rigorous approach will be taken in both topics, with emphasis on proof. Python will be used to illustrate and investigate cutting edge applications.

60% Tests

40% Coursework

MATH1705
Probability 20 credits

An understanding of uncertainty and random phenomena is becoming increasingly important in daily life and in the modern workplace. The aim of this module is to develop the concept of chance in a mathematical framework. Random variables are introduced, with examples involving some common distributions, and the concepts of expectation, variance and correlation are investigated using mathematical tools.

60% Examinations

40% Coursework

MATH1706
Numerical Methods 20 credits

In mathematics, solving most real world problems requires the use of computers. This module introduces computational mathematics and algorithms . Students will use mathematical software interactively and write programs in Python. The numerical methods which underlie industrial, scientific and financial applications will be studied.

60% Examinations

40% Coursework

Year 2

In Year 2, you’ll take both mathematical and statistical learning to the next level; exploring mathematical models for scientific and natural processes. As these models involve unknown quantities that are estimated from data, we’ll introduce you to a range of statistical estimation methods, some of which are related to Machine Learning.  You may have met some of these methods – like linear regression – before, but most will be new to you.  
You won’t just deepen your knowledge; you’ll sharpen your employability skills. In our case studies from industry module, you’ll apply mathematics to genuine business challenges, mastering operational research – the mathematics of decision making in business.
You will be taught Monte Carlo methods which are industry-standard techniques used to solve intricate logistical problems, the same tools used in finance, engineering, and supply chain optimisation around the world.
By the end of your second year, you won’t just have a deep understanding of key mathematical and statistical concepts, you’ll have a cutting-edge toolkit of modern problem-solving skills that employers are searching for. 
Students solving a mathematical problem on a white board. Getty 1227572599.

Core modules

BPIE213
Stage 2 Mathematics Placement Preparation 0 credits

A year-long work placement is a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will enhance future career prospects. This module prepares students to begin their placement search by providing practical guidance on where to look, how to apply, and how to present themselves effectively to potential employers; featuring insights from students who have recently returned from their own placements.

MATH2701
Advanced Calculus 20 credits

In this module the geometrical and dynamical concepts needed to describe higher-dimensional objects are introduced. This includes vector calculus techniques and new forms of integration, such as line integration. Students also explore the relationships between integration and differentiation in higher dimensions. We apply advanced calculus to problems from areas such as mechanics and electromagnetism.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MATH2703
Algebra and Transforms 20 credits

This module introduces mathematical structures called rings and fields, which capture properties of objects such as integers, real numbers or polynomials. These structures are used to explore error-correcting codes for data transmission. Calculus is used to introduce Laplace and Fourier transforms, and Fourier series. They are applied to solve differential equations and uncover identities involving irrational numbers.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MATH2704
Differential Equations 20 credits

Differential equations are used to describe changes in nature. This module introduces methods to find exact solutions to ordinary differential equations, and numerical solutions to ordinary and partial differential equations. Extensive use will be made of computational tools. The behaviour of higher dimensional systems will be analysed using the theory of continuous dynamical systems.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MATH2705
Operational Research 20 credits

This module gives students the opportunity to work on open-ended case studies in Operational Research (OR) and Monte Carlo methods, both of which play an important role in many areas of industry and finance. Students work both on their own and in teams to develop expertise in Operational Research and programming. They will refine their presentation and communication skills, so enhancing their employability.

75% Coursework

25% Practicals

MATH2706
Complex Analysis and Vector Calculus 20 credits

This module explores fundamental relationships between dimensionality and integration. Vector integration theorems for circulation, vorticity and divergence are introduced and vector calculus is applied to real-world examples, such as classical mechanics and orbital dynamics. The mathematics of complex numbers and functions are studied, revealing deep results with applications throughout mathematics.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MATH2707
Data Modelling 20 credits

We study statistical methods for learning about the parameters of mathematical models from data, including likelihood-based estimation and hypothesis testing. We present classical and Bayesian treatments of regression and of general and generalised linear models, using R and Stan software. We describe Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms. We work with multiple data sources using state-of-the art data handling tools.

100% Coursework

Optional placement year

Our placement year is your chance to step into the real world and make an immediate impact. You’ll apply your mathematical and statistical expertise within a professional context, from industry to healthcare and pharmaceutical research and beyond. Whether you’re optimising business strategies, driving innovation, or contributing to life-changing research, you’ll see first-hand how powerful and versatile your skills really are.
Not only will you gain invaluable experience and confidence, but many of our placement students secure graduate roles as a direct result of their year in industry. In addition to the skills and experiences you will gain, placement salaries are typically around ÂŁ20,000.
When you return to Plymouth, you’ll come back energised and inspired, with a clear vision of how mathematics and computer science shapes the world and a renewed drive to excel in your final year.
Woman analysing data on a computer screen, research, technology.

Core modules

BPIE331
Mathematics and Statistics Placement 20 credits

A year-long work-placement, undertaken with an approved placement provider and in a role relevant to the students programme. Students will leave with practical and relevant work experience, where they put theory into practice. This module is attached to the Placement and provides students with a single digital space to refer to for key reminders, FAQs, contact details, top tips and their Placement-year handbook.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

Final year

In your final year, you take a deep dive into specialised statistics topics including medical statistics and Big Data. We’ll help you to design a clinical trial, to combine evidence from large-scale medical studies, and to evaluate techniques for controlling the spread of diseases. A standout feature of the final year is your project work – whether it’s a research-driven individual project under the guidance of a statistics expert, a dynamic industry placement, a school-based experience, or a collaborative case study in a small team. 
By the time you graduate, you won’t just have a degree – you’ll have a portfolio of advanced knowledge, hands-on experience, and real-world problem-solving skills that make you stand out. Your next adventure may be a professional graduate job, or further study.  Whatever you want, you will be exceptionally well placed for future success.
Female student analysing a formula on whiteboard during mathematics class in the classroom. Getty 1241535781.

Core modules

MATH3710
Medical Statistics 20 credits

This module equips students with the skills to plan and analyse clinical trials, including crossover and sequential designs, and to perform sample size calculations. The principles of meta-analysis are introduced. Epidemiology is studied, including case-control and cohort studies. Survival analysis is covered in detail. Students gain experience with computer packages that are used in health and medicine.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

Optional modules

COMP3003
Machine Learning 20 credits

This module introduces machine learning, covering unsupervised, supervised and reinforcement learning from a Bayesian perspective. This includes theory behind a range of learning techniques and how to apply these representations of data in systems that make decisions and predictions.

100% Coursework

COMP3008
Big Data Analytics 20 credits

The key objective of this module is to familiarise the students with the most important information technologies used in manipulating, storing and analysing big data. Students will work with semi-structured datasets and choose appropriate storage structures for them. A representative of recent non-relational trends is presented—namely, graph-oriented databases.

100% Coursework

MATH3701
Partial Differential Equations 20 credits

This module deepens students’ understanding of partial differential equations and applies them to real world problems. It provides a variety of analytic and numerical methods for their solution. It includes a wide range of applications such as transport, heat diffusion, wave propagation and nonlinear phenomena.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MATH3706
Industrial Placement 20 credits

This module provides an opportunity for final year students to gain experience of applying mathematics in a professional environment. Students can carry out a placement in a wide variety of areas, including data science, finance, management, research, and software development. As part of this, they develop a range of skills that considerably increase future employment opportunities.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

MATH3708
Modelling and Numerical Simulation 20 credits

Simulations and modelling are crucial tools that support industrial research and innovation. Students will learn to analyse mathematical models and develop programs to solve them. They will investigate algorithms and discuss their performance. Students will code and run numerical programs on a high performance computer. These forward-looking skills are highly sought after by many employers.

100% Coursework

MATH3709
Optimisation, Networks and Graphs 20 credits

Optimisation and graph theory are related branches of mathematics with applications in areas as diverse as computer science and logistics. Graphs are used to capture relationships between objects, while optimisation studies algorithms that search for optimal solutions. This module provides both the theory and modern algorithms, including those used in artificial intelligence, required to solve a broad range of problems.

100% Coursework

MATH3712
Mathematics of Planet Earth 20 credits

Students work in small groups to research problems directly related to sustainability and the protection of the environment, so addressing some of the most serious problems faced by humanity. This can involve the solution of mathematical, statistical, computational, industrial or economic problems, or challenges in renewable energy engineering. Students present their conclusions orally and in a professional report.

70% Coursework

30% Practicals

MATH3713
Project 20 credits

In this module, students perform individual independent research into a topic in Mathematical Sciences, or Mathematics Education. Students choose a subject to explore in depth, which they are particularly interested in, and receive regular advice and feedback from an expert supervisor. The outputs of the project are a dissertation and a presentation. This module is an ideal preparation for progressing to further study.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

MATH3714
School Placement 20 credits

This module provides an opportunity for final year students to gain experience in teaching and to develop their key educational skills by working in a school environment for one morning a week over both semesters. Students typically progress from assisting in the classroom to teaching a starter activity over the academic year.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

MATH3704
Fluid Dynamics 20 credits

In this module, students will learn how to use mathematics to model a variety of fluid flows. Fluid flow problems are described mathematically as ordinary or partial differential equations. These equations are then solved and the results interpreted for a mixture of theoretical and practical examples of both inviscid and viscous fluid flows. Applications from environmental and industrial modelling will be studied.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

ACF6004
Financial Modelling 20 credits

The module covers financial modelling for bonds and rates, equities, currencies and options. While analysing and modelling each category of securities with specific and pertinent approaches, it stresses the underlying principles governing all valuation processes. The module also equips the students with the skills to use software, such as Excel, for implementing models and perform analysis.

60% Examinations

40% Tests

 
 
 

Alternative pathways

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

Discover statistics at Plymouth

This research-led mathematics and statistics degree provides a strong foundation in pure and applied maths, probability and statistics, with early training in key software like R, MATLAB and Maple. You'll gain technical skills essential for fields such as finance, healthcare and data science, including operational research and Big Data analysis.
Taught by world-class researchers, the course offers advanced modules in financial modelling and medical statistics, plus a wide range of final-year project topics – from stochastic calculus to disease prediction. Assessment is varied and interactive and strong communication skills are developed throughout.
Mathematics and statistics facilities
 
 
 
Vincent Drach teaching mathematics

Exceptional support and engaged learning

At Plymouth, student support is at the heart of our mathematics degrees. From small-group tutorials to peer-assisted learning (PALS) to a personal tutor system and an online drop-in centre, we ensure you're never studying alone. Our approachable lecturers maintain an open-door policy and actively encourage questions and discussion.
We match weekly contact time in lectures, tutorials and computer labs with an expectation of independent study, fostering discipline and deep understanding. We also embrace technology to enhance learning: digital lecture notes, staff and student-led podcasts, and in-class voting systems provide instant feedback and keep sessions interactive. It’s a rigorous and rewarding journey, backed by a strong record of student satisfaction.
Babbage building on a sunny day with blue skies, two people entering the building.

World-class facilities

Visualising advanced mathematics – especially in higher dimensions or complex systems – can be challenging, so we provide a range of resources to support your understanding. 
You’ll have access to first-class computer labs, industrial-grade software and our unique Immersive Visualisation Suite which brings mathematical concepts to life through the lens of astronomy and planetary motion. Our dedicated student room fosters collaboration across year groups, encouraging lively discussions and debate around mathematical ideas. Lecturers are always nearby, often joining conversations and offering insights, creating a vibrant, supportive learning environment that’s valued by both students and staff.
 
 
 
Katie Hardman, BSc (Hons) Mathematics student at the University

Develop your skills, knowledge and confidence with a work placement

Katie Hardman – industrial experience to a job offer
“I found that the skills I had already gained at the University prepared me well for the experience and also for future jobs.”
After her industrial internship with Babcock, Katie was offered a full-time graduate position by them after the completion of her degree. Discover Katie's story  
 
 
 
 

Learn from our student community

 
 
 

Meet your lecturers

Dr Jason Hughes Lecturer in Mathematics


Lecturer in Mathematics

Dr B. King Associate Professor of Theoretical Physics


Associate Professor of Theoretical Physics

Dr Craig McNeile Lecturer in Theoretical Physics


Lecturer in Theoretical Physics

Show all
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

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Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
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Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

Callum Patmore

I would highly recommend taking a mathematics degree as it opens your eyes to the language of the universe and how things truly work.

Callum
BSc (Hons) Mathematics graduate

 
 
 

Meet a graduate

“I really enjoyed doing my dissertation – I really found my stride in research and realised that was what I wanted to do in the future. I did a lot of coding and looking into government policies. It was really interesting!”
Emily, a BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Statistics graduate, shares her favourite thing about the course and her ambitions to continue her academic path with postgraduate study at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
A mathematics degree from Plymouth equips you for a fulfilling career across diverse industries. Our graduates enjoy strong employability, taking on roles such as data analysts, statisticians, actuaries, software developers, and scientific researchers. With a broad range of student placements available, you’ll gain valuable work experience that employers actively seek. Alumni have gone on to exciting careers or further study, with recent destinations including the , , , the , and .
  • }

    100% of our mathematics with statistics graduates felt that staff explained things well

  • x

    97% of our mathematics with statistics graduates felt that the course was intellectually stimulating

  • [

    96% of our mathematics with statistics graduates felt challenged to achieve their best work

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
ÂŁ9,535 per year
Part-time study
ÂŁ795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
ÂŁ1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
ÂŁ1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ18,650 per year
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
ÂŁ1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
ÂŁ1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
112 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
Mathematics and English at grade C or above is required.

A levels
112 points, to include a minimum of 2 A levels, including B in Mathematics or Further Mathematics. (Pure Maths, Pure and Applied Maths, Maths and Statistics, Maths and Mechanics are also accepted as they are considered the same as the Maths A level.)
We do not run an unconditional offer scheme but may make personalised, lower offers to selected candidates.

BTEC
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: DDM to include a distinction in a mathematics unit: individual interview/diagnostic test will be required.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. This information enables us to process your application quickly and avoid delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

Access courses
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 33 level 3 credits with at least 12 Level 3 credits at distinction in Mathematics including a unit introducing calculus, plus, GCSEs: English and Maths at grade C/4.

International Baccalaureate
28–30 overall to include 5 at Higher Level mathematics.

Other qualifications
Other qualifications are also welcome and will be considered individually, as will be individuals returning to education, email maths@plymouth.ac.uk

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
G1G3
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth

    • Other routes into this course

    The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

    BSc (Hons) Mathematics with Foundation Year

    Passionate about maths but missing standard entry requirements? Our four-year degree helps you build skills in pure and applied mathematics, statistics, and programming – ideal if you’ve been out of education or need extra preparation.

     

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    112 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    G1G3
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    3 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth

    Other routes to this course

    The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
    Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
     
     
     

    Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
     
    Book your place
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    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.