Mathematics and Computer Science with Foundation Year

This BSc Mathematics and Computer Science is an innovative degree that combines rigorous mathematical theory with comprehensive software development and modern computing practices.

Why choose this course?

• What sets this course apart is its strong emphasis on both theoretical understanding and practical application. You will gain essential understanding in the foundations of mathematics, as well as developing proficiency in key areas of computing including programming languages, database management and cloud computing.

• Our faculty comprises leading experts in mathematics and computer science bringing a wealth of knowledge and industry experience to the classroom and providing unparalleled insights and mentorship.

• This course benefits from state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry partnerships to provide you with opportunities for engagement in hands-on learning, internships and collaborative projects.

What you will learn

Whether you aspire to work in finance, technology, healthcare or academia, this BSc Mathematics and Computer Science will equip you with the analytical and computational skills you need to excel in a wide range of fields.

You will study fundamental topics such as calculus, linear algebra and discrete mathematics, alongside key areas of computer science including algorithms, data structures and software engineering.

How you will learn

Teaching on this course is through lectures, seminars and practical lab work, with access to materials online. In lectures you will explore new topics and techniques illustrated with plenty of examples. Seminars and lab sessions will give you the opportunity to discuss activities or tasks you have attempted in advance, and to work on new problems.

You will also have the opportunity to tailor the degree to your interests with option modules and a project in your final year in which you will be able to apply your mathematical and computer science skills to real-world problems, equipping you with valuable experience for your future career.

You will be able to choose between full- and part-time study on this course. It has an evening timetable with classes taking place in the evening.

Foundation Year

If you opt for the Foundation Year route, this will fully prepare you for undergraduate study. It is ideal if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied the relevant subjects, or if you didn't achieve the grades you need for a place on your chosen undergraduate degree.

Highlights

• In the 2023 National Student Survey, Birkbeck was ranked the top university in the UK for Mathematical Sciences in four of the eight categories.

• Our world-class research activity informs our teaching, and we provide a stimulating teaching and research environment for both part-time and full-time students.

• Birkbeck was ranked in the top 25 universities in the UK for its Computer Science and Informatics research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

• Birkbeck established one of the first computing departments in the UK in 1957 and was a pioneer in database technologies, e-commerce and data science studies.

Careers and employability

On successful completion of this BSc, you will have gained valuable transferable skills, including the ability to:

• design, implement and analyse software solutions

• present, analyse and interpret data

• use modern programming languages and development environments effectively

• comprehend conceptual and abstract material

• develop a logical and systematic approach to problem-solving

• transfer knowledge and expertise from one context to another.

You will find mathematics and computer science graduates in roles such as:

• software engineer

• systems architect

• technology consultant

• software developer

• algorithm developer

• technical analyst

• systems analyst

• teacher

• research and development engineer

• technology professional.

For information about course structure and the modules you will be studying, please visit Birkbeck’s online prospectus.

We use a variety of different methods of assessment including coursework, quizzes, written examinations, and a project proposal and final report.