Skip to main content

Undergraduate Study

MSci Computer Science and Mathematics - 2025 entry

Please note: The below is for 2025 entries. Click here for 2024 entries.
UCAS code GG4D
Duration 4 years
Entry year 2025
Campus Streatham Campus
Discipline Computer Science
Contact

Web: Enquire online
Phone: +44 (0)1326 371801

Typical offer

View full entry requirements

A levels: AAA
IB: 36/666
BTEC: DDD

Contextual offers

A-Level: ABB
IB: 32/655
BTEC: DDM

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

View 2024 Entry

Request a prospectus

Open Days and visiting us

How to apply

Contact

Web: Enquire online

Phone: +44 (0)1392 72 72 72

Discover Computer Science at the University of Exeter.

Top 20 icon

Top 20 for Computer Science

20th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024

Computer icon

Excellent facilities spanning a wide range of machine types and software ecosystems

Handshake icon

Partner to the Alan Turing Institute

Graduation cap and diploma icon: symbolizing academic achievement and success.

Top 10 in the UK for graduate prospects

Joint 9th for graduate prospects for Computer Science in the Complete University Guide 2025 (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
IB: 32/655
BTEC: DDM

Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers.

Other accepted qualifications

View 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

CodeModuleCredits
MTH1000Foundations0
ECM1400Programming15
ECM1410Object-Oriented Programming15
ECM1413Computers and the Internet15
MTH1001Mathematical Structures30
MTH1002Mathematical Methods30

Optional modules

CodeModuleCredits
Select 15 credits
ECM1414Data Structures and Algorithms15
COM1011Fundamentals of Machine Learning15

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

CodeModuleCredits
ECM2414Software Development15
ECM2434Group Software Engineering Project15

Optional modules

CodeModuleCredits
Select 30 to 60 credits of Computer Science Options
ECM2418Computer Languages and Representations15
ECM2419Database Theory and Design15
ECM2423Artificial Intelligence and Applications15
ECM2425Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing15
ECM2426Network and Computer Security15
ECM2427Outside the box: Computer Science Research and Applications15
ECM2433The C Family15
ECM1417Web Development15
Select 30 to 60 credits of Mathematics Options
MTH2003Differential Equations15
MTH2004Vector Calculus and Applications15
MTH2008Real Analysis15
MTH2009Complex Analysis15
MTH2010Groups, Rings and Fields15
MTH2011Linear Algebra15
You may select 0 - 30 credits of Other Options
MTH1004Probability, Statistics and Data30
MTH2005Modelling: Theory and Practice30
*******Free Choice Elective30
EMP2001Ambassadors for Science15

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

CodeModuleCredits
ECM3401Individual Literature Review and Project45

Optional modules

CodeModuleCredits
Select 15 to 45 credits of Computer Science Options
ECM3408Enterprise Computing15
ECM3412Nature Inspired Computation15
ECM3420Learning from Data15
ECM3422Computability and Complexity 15
ECM3423Computer Graphics15
ECM3428Algorithms that Changed the World15
ECM3446High Performance Computing 15
Select 30 to 60 credits of Mathematics Options
MTH3001Theory of Weather and Climate15
MTH3004Number Theory15
MTH3006Mathematical Biology and Ecology15
MTH3007Fluid Dynamics15
MTH3008Partial Differential Equations15
MTH3011Nonlinear Systems and Control15
MTH3013Applied Differential Geometry15
MTH3019Mathematics: History and Culture15
MTH3021Combinatorics 15
MTH3022Graphs, Networks and Algorithms15
MTH3024Stochastic Processes15
MTH3026Cryptography15
MTH3030Mathematics of Climate Change15
MTH3038Galois Theory15
MTH3039Computational Nonlinear Dynamics15
MTH3040Topology and Metric Spaces15
MTH3050Functional Analysis15
You may select 0 to 30 credits of other options
EMP3001Commercial and Industrial Experience15
NSC3009Aerosols, Clouds and Climate15
XXXXXXXFree Choice - Upto 30 Credits30

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

CodeModuleCredits
ECMM428Individual Research Project30

Optional modules

CodeModuleCredits
MTHM010Representation Theory of Finite Groups15
MTHM014Metric Number Theory and Diophantine Approximation15
MTHM018Dynamical Systems and Chaos15
MTHM019Fluid Dynamics of Atmospheres and Oceans15
MTHM023Modelling the Weather and Climate15
MTHM028Algebraic Number Theory15
MTHM029Algebraic Curves15
MTHM030Waves, Instabilities and Turbulence15
MTHM031Magnetic Fields and Fluid Flows15
MTHM036Research in Mathematical Sciences15
MTHM041Analytic Number Theory15
MTHM045Space Weather and Plasmas15
MTHM048Ergodic Theory15
MTHM052Mid-Latitude Weather Systems15
NSCM005Mathematical Modelling in Biology and Medicine15
MTHM062Data-driven Analysis and Modelling of Dynamical Systems15
MTHM063Uncertainty Quantification15
Select at least 30 credits:
ECMM409Nature-Inspired Computation15
ECMM422Machine Learning15
ECMM423Evolutionary Computation & Optimisation15
ECMM424Computer Modelling and Simulation15
ECMM426Computer Vision15
ECMM461High Performance Computing 15
COMM510Multi-Objective Optimisation and Decision Making15
Select between 0 and 30 credits:
XXXMXXXFree choice of Level 7 modules30

Fees

Tuition fees for 2025 entry

UK students: £9,250 per year
International students: £30,900 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.

Find out more about tuition fees and scholarships

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
  • Data Science
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Innovation
  • Law
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Social Data Science

Find out more about proficiency options

Expand text

Your future

Student in yellow jumper at computer

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.

Expand text