| UCAS code | GG4D |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Computer Science |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A levels: AAA |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: ABB |
Overview
- An interdisciplinary degree combining traditional mathematical techniques with exciting contemporary applications in the field of computer science
- Develop practical skills in the specification, design and implementation of computer systems, as well as an understanding of the theory behind them
- The 4-year MSci Computer Science and Mathematics programme provides the opportunity to study more advanced material and obtain a higher level qualification
- Benefit from excellent facilities spanning a wide range of machine types and software ecosystems
- Our world-class teaching is informed by active, up-to-the-minute research of international standing in developing fields including machine learning, artificial intelligence, and nature-inspired computation
- We maintain excellent teaching links with computer-related industry partners such as IBM, The Met Office, NATS and Motorola
Top 20 for Computer Science
20th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
Excellent facilities spanning a wide range of machine types and software ecosystems
Partner to the Alan Turing Institute
Top 20 in the UK for graduate prospects
16th for graduate prospects for Computer Science in the Complete University Guide 2024 (94%)
Entry requirements (typical offer)
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| A-Level | AAA | GCE AL Maths grade A Candidates may offer GCE AL Maths, Pure Maths or Further Maths. |
| IB | 36/666 | HL 6 in Mathematics (Analysis and approaches or Applications and interpretations) |
| BTEC | DDD | Applicants studying a BTEC Extended Diploma will also require GCE AL Maths grade A |
| GCSE | 4 or C | Grade 4/C in GCSE English language |
| Access to HE | 30 L3 credits at Distinction Grade and 15 L3 credits at Merit Grade | 15 L3 credits at Distinction Grade in an acceptable Mathematics subject area |
| T-Level | T-Levels not accepted | N/A |
| Contextual Offer | A-Level: ABB |
Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers. |
| Other accepted qualifications | ||
| English language requirements |
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B1. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country. |
|
NB General Studies is not included in any offer.
Grades advertised on each programme webpage are the typical level at which our offers are made and provide information on any specific subjects an applicant will need to have studied in order to be considered for a place on the programme. However, if we receive a large number of applications for the programme we may not be able to make an offer to all those who are predicted to achieve/have achieved grades which are in line with our typical offer. For more information on how applications are assessed and when decisions are released, please see: After you apply
International Foundation programmes
Preparation for entry to Year 1 of an undergraduate degree:
Course content
This year gives you a solid foundation in computer science and mathematics. It includes an introduction to procedural and object-oriented programming, system architectures, computing for the web, professional issues of computing, and explores some of the boundaries of scientific knowledge in the field. Modules on vectors and matrices, and probability and discrete mathematics provide the mathematical underpinning of later modules in computer science and artificial intelligence.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MTH1000 | Foundations | 0 |
| ECM1400 | Programming | 15 |
| ECM1410 | Object-Oriented Programming | 15 |
| ECM1413 | Computers and the Internet | 15 |
| MTH1001 | Mathematical Structures | 30 |
| MTH1002 | Mathematical Methods | 30 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select 15 credits | ||
| ECM1414 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 15 |
| COM1011 | Fundamentals of Machine Learning | 15 |
Your group project in year two introduces key aspects of software engineering to you in a practical way, while a choice of optional modules allows you to tailor your degree towards your preferences in Mathematics and/or Computer Science. Up to 30 credits of elective (free choice) modules can be taken from any discipline in the University subject to approval, pre-requisites, timetabling and availability.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ECM2414 | Software Development | 15 |
| ECM2434 | Group Software Engineering Project | 15 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select 30 to 60 credits of Computer Science Options | ||
| ECM2418 | Computer Languages and Representations | 15 |
| ECM2419 | Database Theory and Design | 15 |
| ECM2423 | Artificial Intelligence and Applications | 15 |
| ECM2425 | Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing | 15 |
| ECM2426 | Network and Computer Security | 15 |
| ECM2427 | Outside the box: Computer Science Research and Applications | 15 |
| ECM2433 | The C Family | 15 |
| ECM1417 | Web Development | 15 |
| Select 30 to 60 credits of Mathematics Options | ||
| MTH2003 | Differential Equations | 15 |
| MTH2004 | Vector Calculus and Applications | 15 |
| MTH2008 | Real Analysis | 15 |
| MTH2009 | Complex Analysis | 15 |
| MTH2010 | Groups, Rings and Fields | 15 |
| MTH2011 | Linear Algebra | 15 |
| You may select 0 - 30 credits of Other Options | ||
| MTH1004 | Probability, Statistics and Data | 30 |
| MTH2005 | Modelling: Theory and Practice | 30 |
| ******* | Free Choice Elective | 30 |
| EMP2001 | Ambassadors for Science | 15 |
In the third year, students on the Computer Science and Mathematics programme carry out an extensive computing research project, whilst those studying Mathematics and Computer Science will take at least 50 per cent of their final year credits in Mathematics. Up to 30 credits of elective (free choice) modules can be taken from any discipline in the University subject to approval, pre-requisites, timetabling and availability.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ECM3401 | Individual Literature Review and Project | 45 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select 15 to 45 credits of Computer Science Options | ||
| ECM3408 | Enterprise Computing | 15 |
| ECM3412 | Nature Inspired Computation | 15 |
| ECM3420 | Learning from Data | 15 |
| ECM3422 | Computability and Complexity | 15 |
| ECM3423 | Computer Graphics | 15 |
| ECM3428 | Algorithms that Changed the World | 15 |
| ECM3446 | High Performance Computing | 15 |
| Select 30 to 60 credits of Mathematics Options | ||
| MTH3001 | Theory of Weather and Climate | 15 |
| MTH3004 | Number Theory | 15 |
| MTH3006 | Mathematical Biology and Ecology | 15 |
| MTH3007 | Fluid Dynamics | 15 |
| MTH3008 | Partial Differential Equations | 15 |
| MTH3011 | Nonlinear Systems and Control | 15 |
| MTH3013 | Applied Differential Geometry | 15 |
| MTH3019 | Mathematics: History and Culture | 15 |
| MTH3021 | Combinatorics | 15 |
| MTH3022 | Graphs, Networks and Algorithms | 15 |
| MTH3024 | Stochastic Processes | 15 |
| MTH3026 | Cryptography | 15 |
| MTH3030 | Mathematics of Climate Change | 15 |
| MTH3038 | Galois Theory | 15 |
| MTH3039 | Computational Nonlinear Dynamics | 15 |
| MTH3040 | Topology and Metric Spaces | 15 |
| MTH3050 | Functional Analysis | 15 |
| You may select 0 to 30 credits of other options | ||
| EMP3001 | Commercial and Industrial Experience | 15 |
| NSC3009 | Aerosols, Clouds and Climate | 15 |
| XXXXXXX | Free Choice - Upto 30 Credits | 30 |
The 4-year MSci Computer Science and Mathematics programme provides the opportunity to study more advanced material and obtain a higher level qualification. The final year includes a substantial project involving elements of both Computer Science and Mathematics, as well as a range of advanced optional modules in the two subjects. Graduates of these programmes are able to tackle a wide range of problems, making them highly employable. Up to 30 credits of elective (free choice) modules can be taken from any discipline in the University subject to approval, pre-requisites, timetabling and availability.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ECMM428 | Individual Research Project | 30 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MTHM010 | Representation Theory of Finite Groups | 15 |
| MTHM014 | Metric Number Theory and Diophantine Approximation | 15 |
| MTHM018 | Dynamical Systems and Chaos | 15 |
| MTHM019 | Fluid Dynamics of Atmospheres and Oceans | 15 |
| MTHM023 | Modelling the Weather and Climate | 15 |
| MTHM028 | Algebraic Number Theory | 15 |
| MTHM029 | Algebraic Curves | 15 |
| MTHM030 | Waves, Instabilities and Turbulence | 15 |
| MTHM031 | Magnetic Fields and Fluid Flows | 15 |
| MTHM036 | Research in Mathematical Sciences | 15 |
| MTHM041 | Analytic Number Theory | 15 |
| MTHM045 | Space Weather and Plasmas | 15 |
| MTHM048 | Ergodic Theory | 15 |
| MTHM052 | Mid-Latitude Weather Systems | 15 |
| NSCM005 | Mathematical Modelling in Biology and Medicine | 15 |
| MTHM062 | Data-driven Analysis and Modelling of Dynamical Systems | 15 |
| MTHM063 | Uncertainty Quantification | 15 |
| Select at least 30 credits: | ||
| ECMM409 | Nature-Inspired Computation | 15 |
| ECMM422 | Machine Learning | 15 |
| ECMM423 | Evolutionary Computation & Optimisation | 15 |
| ECMM424 | Computer Modelling and Simulation | 15 |
| ECMM426 | Computer Vision | 15 |
| ECMM461 | High Performance Computing | 15 |
| COMM510 | Multi-Objective Optimisation and Decision Making | 15 |
| Select between 0 and 30 credits: | ||
| XXXMXXX | Free choice of Level 7 modules | 30 |
Fees
Tuition fees for 2024 entry
UK students: £9,250 per year
International students: £27,000 per year
Scholarships
The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students, such as our Global Excellence Scholarships*. Financial support is also available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lower income households and other under-represented groups to help them access, succeed and progress through higher education.
* Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.
Learning and teaching
Lectures, seminars and workshops
All our degrees involve a combination of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials. Most modules in mathematics involve three one-hour lectures per week, so you would typically have 12 lectures per week. In the first year there are tutorial classes for each module every week and example classes every fortnight, except for modules involving computing or project work. Thus in the first year you would typically have around 16 contact hours per week.
In addition to this, you are expected to spend about 20 hours per week in private study. The tutorials and exercise classes enable you to discuss the lecture material and coursework problems. Further support is available at lunchtime mathematics surgeries run by postgraduate students. You are encouraged to discuss any mathematical problems or questions that may arise with the lecturer. All lecturers have advertised office hours when they are available to provide help. Working through examples and solving problems is a vital part of learning mathematics so coursework is set in each module.
Virtual learning environment
We’re actively engaged in introducing new methods of learning and teaching, including increasing use of interactive computer-based approaches to learning through our virtual learning environment, where the details of all modules are stored in an easily navigable website. You can access detailed information about modules and learning outcomes and interact through activities such as the discussion forums.
A research and practice led culture
We believe every student benefits from being taught by experts active in research and practice. You will discuss the very latest ideas, research discoveries and new technologies in seminars and in the field and you will become actively involved in a research project yourself. All our academic staff are active in internationally-recognised scientific research across a wide range of topics. You will also be taught by leading industry practitioners.
Assessment
Assessment for all degrees is through a combination of examinations and coursework. Examinations are the more important part of the process, but the assessed coursework will help you to work steadily throughout your degree. This is particularly important in Mathematics where the subject matter develops logically from fairly simple beginnings. Written examinations for mathematics modules are held in January and May/June of the first and second years and in May/June of each subsequent year. Most modules also have either a mid-term test or coursework contributing to the assessment.
Coursework typically contributes 20% to the assessment of all modules. In the third year several modules allow you to undertake further coursework to contribute to your overall degree classification.
Optional modules outside of this course
Each year, if you have optional modules available, you can take up to 30 credits in a subject outside of your course. This can increase your employability and widen your intellectual horizons.
Proficiency in a second subject
If you complete 60 credits of modules in one of the subjects below, you may have the words 'with proficiency in [e.g. Social Data Science]' added to your degree title when you graduate.
- A Foreign Language
- Law
- Social Data Science
- Entrepreneurship
- Leadership
Your future
Exeter has an excellent reputation with graduate recruiters and a strong employment record. Our graduates excel in specialist computer science fields and across a broad range of other sectors.
We offer a very wide range of opportunities for you to develop the skills employers are looking for, including industrial placements and study abroad. Visit our Careers and Employability webpages to find out more.
Mathematics has long influenced the development of computer science, and the rapid growth of computing power has led to the development of techniques and algorithms which have in turn influenced the mathematics community, making this joint degree a natural combination. In addition graduates from the programme are well prepared for careers requiring either or both of the disciplines.
There has never been a greater need for experts in computing. From the complex IT systems used in modern businesses to sophisticated online gaming experiences, computers are a familiar characteristic of the modern world. This makes for a fascinating range of careers that require the technical expertise of a computer scientist (someone who understands the science behind computer technology).
As an Exeter Computing graduate you may find yourself working with business IT systems, the web, mobile communications or games technology, or in the management and development of the safety-critical systems that control aeroplanes, trains and nuclear power stations.
During your time with us you’ll develop your problem-solving skills, your technical competence and your ability to analyse and reflect on issues relating to computer technology. These are essential skills whether you wish to work for a leading computing company developing new technologies, enter the world of business and finance, or if you would like to use your degree in a different role where you can use your abilities to analyse and solve problems.
Career Paths
The broad-based skills acquired during your degree will give you an excellent grounding for a wide variety of careers, not only those related to Computer Science but also in wider fields. Examples of roles recent graduates are now working as include:
- Academic research
- Business Analysts, Architects or Systems Designer
- Cyber Security Professional
- Engineer
- Financial Accounts Manager
- IT Network Professional
- IT Quality and Testing Professional
- Programmer
- Software Developer
Industrial Experience
As part of the four-year degree, you can choose to take an optional Commercial and Industrial Experience module during the vacation before the third year (subject to availability). This very rewarding opportunity allows you to gain paid work experience while earning credits towards your degree programme. Following the placement you can report on your experience which, alongside a report from the employer, enables you to count your experience as a third-year optional module. We have excellent links with employers and can provide assistance in finding suitable employment.
