Computer Science and Mathematics

MSci Hons

  • UCAS Code GG1K
  • Entry Year 2024 or 2023
  • A Level Requirements A*AA
  • Duration Full time 4 Years

Overview

Top reasons to study with us

  • 10

    10th for in Mathematics

    The Guardian University Guide (2024)

  • 14

    14th for Mathematics

    The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide (2024)

  • 100% of our research impact rated outstanding (REF2021)

Mathematics and computing are intrinsically linked. By combining them in one Master's programme you gain a robust, advanced understanding of the two disciplines, equipping you with sophisticated specialist skills and detailed technical knowledge, allowing you to excel in your chosen career.

Mathematics forms the foundations of all technology and computing, and as such, a rigorous study of the discipline provides invaluable insight and understanding into computer science. Furthermore, computer science is itself a dynamic discipline with a wide range of applications. As a result, this combined programme offers you a robust and comprehensive skill set, in-depth specialist knowledge, and fantastic career opportunities.

You will explore the theory and practice of innovative and experimental computer science, while gaining an advanced understanding of the mathematical concepts and processes behind them. The depth and breadth of knowledge and experience gained over the four years will prove to be a challenging but rewarding opportunity, placing you in the strongest position as you move forward into your chosen career.

During your first year, you will build on your previous knowledge and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts. Modules cover a wide range of topics from calculus, probability and statistics to logic, proofs and theorems. As well as developing your technical knowledge and mathematical skills, you will also enhance your data analysis, problem-solving and quantitative reasoning skills. Additionally, you will be introduced to software development and the fundamentals of computer science. These topics will allow you to gain a wealth of technical knowledge and develop key interdisciplinary skills.

In the second year, you will begin to drill down into specialist maths and computing modules, studying Human-Computer Interaction; Software Design; Linear Algebra; and Social, Ethical and Professional Issues in Computing. These core modules will ensure you gain a solid understanding of the disciplines that is applicable in the real-world. Alongside these, you will also be able to choose from a range of optional maths modules, these include: Abstract Algebra, Complex Analysis, and Real Analysis. In addition, you will bring your skills and knowledge together in a group project, which will allow you to apply what you have learnt to the real-world and gain valuable, practical experience.

For the third year, your study will be largely guided by your own interests. Compulsory modules, such as Artificial Intelligence, Languages and Compilation, and Security and Risk, will enhance and progress your computer science knowledge and provide insight into the sort of activity you will encounter in the real-world. However, the wide range of optional modules you can choose from will allow you to delve deeper into your own interests and customise the year to suit your career ambitions.

The fourth and final year of your degree will introduce a variety of advanced modules for you to choose from. You can build a strong repertoire of maths and computer science skills and knowledge, to suit your interests and goals, including: Data Mining; Galois Theory; Lie Groups and Lie Algebras; Operator Theory; and Systems Architecture and Integration. You will also benefit from our Research Methods module, which will provide you with a formal understanding of research, and allow you to gain the appropriate skills and practices. You will learn to critically reflect on your research and will gain an appreciation of the different ways that other disciplines, academic communities and industries conduct research. This will provide invaluable insight and experience for many graduate careers as well as for continuing in academia.

Careers

Both computer science and maths graduates are highly sought after individually, but by combining the two disciplines a wide range of opportunities become available. Many of our graduates go on to work in professional software and systems development environments or in technology, computing, financial services or management roles. Our graduates can expect a competitive starting salary in careers such as:

  • Business Analyst
  • Data Scientist
  • Information Systems Manager
  • Multimedia Programmer
  • Quantitative Analyst
  • Risk Analyst
  • Software Engineer

Alternatively, you may wish to undertake PhD-level study at Lancaster and pursue a career in research and teaching.


Lancaster University is dedicated to ensuring you not only gain a highly reputable degree, but that you also graduate with relevant life and work based skills. We are unique in that every student is eligible to participate in The Lancaster Award which offers you the opportunity to complete key activities such as work experience, employability/career development, campus community and social development. Visit our Employability section for full details.

Entry Requirements

Grade Requirements

A Level A*AA including A level Mathematics or Further Mathematics OR AAA including A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics

IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component. For other English language qualifications we accept, please see our English language requirements webpages.

Other Qualifications

International Baccalaureate 38 points overall with 17 points from the best 3 Higher Level subjects including 6 in Mathematics HL (either analysis and approaches or applications and interpretations)

BTEC Accepted alongside A level Mathematics grade A and Further Mathematics grade A

We welcome applications from students with a range of alternative UK and international qualifications, including combinations of qualification. Further guidance on admission to the University, including other qualifications that we accept, frequently asked questions and information on applying, can be found on our general admissions webpages.

Contact Admissions Team + 44 (0) 1524 592028 or via ugadmissions@lancaster.ac.uk

Course Structure

Lancaster University offers a range of programmes, some of which follow a structured study programme, and some which offer the chance for you to devise a more flexible programme to complement your main specialism.

Information contained on the website with respect to modules is correct at the time of publication, and the University will make every reasonable effort to offer modules as advertised. In some cases changes may be necessary and may result in some combinations being unavailable, for example as a result of student feedback, timetabling, Professional Statutory and Regulatory Bodies' (PSRB) requirements, staff changes and new research. Not all optional modules are available every year.

Core

Core

Optional

Optional

Core

Optional

Fees and Funding

Our annual tuition fee is set for a 12-month session, starting in the October of your year of study.

Our Undergraduate Tuition Fees for 2024/25 are:

UK International
£9,250 £28,675

Scholarships and Bursaries

Details of our scholarships and bursaries for 2024-entry study are not yet available, but you can use our opportunities for 2023-entry applicants as guidance.

Check our current list of scholarships and bursaries.

Undergraduate open days 2023

Our autumn open days give you Lancaster University in a day. Visit campus and put yourself in the picture.

Undergraduate Open Days
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A tour of the Campus

Join Meenal and Vlad as they take you on a tour of the Lancaster University campus. Discover the learning facilities, accommodation, sports facilities, welfare, cafes, bars, parkland and more.

Undergraduate Open Days

Important information

The information on this site relates primarily to 2024/2025 entry to the University and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.

The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.

More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information.

Our Students’ Charter

We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. View our Charter and other policies.