Mathematics and Statistics (3 years) BSc (Hons)

Mathematics and Statistics is a fascinating mix of subjects that will suit those with enquiring minds, strong IT skills and an interest in identifying and analysing patterns in data. The BSc combines a strong mathematical grounding with the latest developments in statistics and machine learning to provide the foundation you’ll need to step into a data-driven workplace.<br/><br/>When you choose maths you’ll be taught by a team of mathematicians and statisticians with a wealth of experience in industry and research. The Department is home to a number of research groups with specialisms in both pure and applied mathematics. With many of the teaching team actively involved in research there are plenty of opportunities to link learning to the latest research in distinctive and creative ways.<br/><br/>You will be based in a brand-new facility, purpose-built to meet the learning, teaching and study needs of students from the Department. Year 1 begins with a broad-based introduction to pure and applied mathematics, statistics and probability and provides a sound foundation for in-depth study in subsequent years. As you move into the second year the focus on statistics increases.<br/><br/>During the final year you complete either the individual project in which you tackle a theoretical area or an applied problem in depth. Alternatively, the internship project is a statistics and machine learning piece of work based on a third-party problem. Both projects can be carried out in collaboration with external organisations to add valuable real-world context to your degree.<br/><br/>You can also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad to your degree, increasing the course from three years to four.<br/><br/>**Year 1**<br/><br/>The first year consists of 100 compulsory Mathematics credits:<br/><br/><br/>- Analysis (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Calculus (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Linear Algebra (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Dynamics (10)<br/><br/><br/>- Probability (10)<br/><br/><br/>- Programming (10)<br/><br/><br/>- Statistics (10)<br/><br/><br/>Together with a further 20 credits which can be chosen from:<br/><br/><br/>- Discrete Mathematics (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Any other available Sciences, Arts and Social Sciences modules (subject to pre-requisites and timetabling compatibility)<br/><br/><br/>The first-year Mathematics modules expand and develop topics that may be familiar from A level (or equivalent), smoothing the transition to university study. Fundamental statistical methodologies are developed from first principles in the Statistics and Probability modules, providing a mathematical language and coherent conceptual framework with which to structure subsequent developments. Other modules equip you with the essential mathematical tools needed for further study.<br/><br/>**Year 2**<br/><br/>In the second year, you will take four compulsory modules (60 credits):<br/><br/><br/>- Analysis in Many Variables (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Statistical Inference (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Data Science and Statistical Computing (10)<br/><br/><br/>- Statistical Modelling (10)<br/><br/><br/>Together with a further 60 credits which can be chosen from a wide range.<br/><br/>The four compulsory modules will furnish you with the central mathematical, inferential, modelling, and computational tools needed for modern statistics and machine learning, as well as looking at important surrounding issues such as data governance. Further modules allow you to broaden or deepen your knowledge of particular topics or techniques.<br/><br/>**Year 3**<br/><br/>In the third year, you take a 40-credit capstone project module, tackling a theoretical area or an applied problem in particular depth. Subject to availability, this may be performed in collaboration with a company or other organisation. For the remaining 80 credits, you choose from a range of modules on topics central to modern statistics and machine learning, including:<br/><br/><br/>- Advanced Statistical Modelling (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Bayesian Computation and Modelling (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Decision Theory (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Machine Learning and Neural Networks (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Mathematical Finance (20)<br/><br/><br/>- Stochastic Processes (20).<br/><br/><br/>**Placement Year**<br/><br/>You may be able to take a work placement. Find out more: https://www.dur.ac.uk/study/ug/studyoptions/