BSc (hons) computer science & mathematics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Bath

Program Overview

The Computer Science & Mathematics BSc at Bath combines strong mathematical foundations with robust computing and software‑development skills — ideal if you enjoy both abstract mathematical thinking and practical computing, algorithms or data‑driven programming. This degree prepares you for careers where computation meets mathematics — like data science, machine learning, numerical modelling, software engineering, and computational research.

Curriculum Structure

First Year

You begin with core mathematics and computing units: on the maths side, Core Pure & Statistical Mathematics A & B covering algebra, functions, analysis, probability and statistics; on the CS side, you take introductory programming modules and basics of computer science. This builds a solid base: mathematical reasoning, calculus/linear algebra/statistics, plus programming and computational thinking — essential tools for both theoretical and applied work.

Second Year

In Year 2, you study a blend of mathematics and computer science. Mathematics continues with statistics and optional modules (like probabilistic modelling, numerical analysis, or algebra), while CS modules introduce algorithms, complexity, and software development. You also engage in group‑project work: designing and building applications — combining your maths and CS skills practically.

Third (Final) Year

In the final year you specialise through optional units and a substantial individual project. On the mathematics side you may choose electives like probability & statistics, stochastic processes, graph theory, numerical/optimisation mathematics or algebra; while on the computer science side you may pick advanced topics such as machine learning, mathematical foundations of computer science, cybersecurity, graphics, or software systems — then you develop an independent CS‑Mathematics project. This lets you tailor your degree to your interest: whether it’s data science & modelling, software development, computational research or a mix.

Focus Areas

Mathematics (algebra, analysis, probability, statistics, numerical methods), computer science (programming, algorithms, complexity, software engineering), data modelling & analysis, computational mathematics, mathematical foundations of computing, machine learning, optimisation, and project‑based software/mathematical work.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate with strong mathematical reasoning, solid programming and software development skills, ability to build algorithms and computational models, competence in data and statistical analysis, and analytical thinking that blends theory with computation. You will also gain experience in project work — designing, building, and delivering software or computational projects — preparing you to work independently or in teams in technical roles.

Professional & Career Alignment

This degree suits roles like data scientist, software engineer, machine‑learning engineer, quantitative analyst, computational modeller, research programmer, algorithm developer, and other jobs that need both mathematical insight and computing skills. It also keeps doors open for postgraduate studies in computer science, mathematics, computational science or data science.

What Makes This Course Stand Out at Bath

You get the best of both worlds: rigorous mathematics and strong practical computing.
Flexibility in final year — you can lean more into mathematics (modelling/statistics/optimisation) or computing (software, algorithms, ML), or do a balanced mix.
Good preparation for data‑heavy or algorithm‑intensive careers — ideal if you’re interested in cutting‑edge fields like AI, data science, computational finance, numerical simulation or research computing.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From the start, you’ll combine mathematics modules (algebra, calculus, probability, linear algebra, statistics) with core computer science topics (programming, algorithms, data structures, software development). As you advance, you gain exposure to more specialized areas such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, computational modelling, numerical analysis, and optimization.

Here’s how practical experience is embedded in the programme:

Programming and Software Development: You gain hands-on experience coding in multiple languages, working with modern software tools, and building robust algorithms.
Mathematical Modelling and Computation: Modules integrate computational mathematics to solve real-world problems, including simulations and data analysis projects.
Group Projects and Collaborative Work: Many modules require teamwork, encouraging you to solve problems collectively, develop software in teams, and present results.
Final-Year Project: You undertake a substantial independent or supervised project that combines computer science and mathematics, often with real-world applications or research components.
Access to Computing and Research Facilities: Bath provides dedicated computer labs, high-performance computing resources, and software licenses for specialized tools like MATLAB, Python libraries, and statistical packages.
Workshops and Seminars: Practical workshops on coding, algorithm design, and problem-solving enhance your technical skills and industry readiness.
Optional Placement Year or Study Abroad: The programme allows you to gain professional experience or international exposure, applying your knowledge in real work environments.
Library and Digital Resources: Full access to Bath’s library and digital learning resources supports programming practice, mathematical research, and project preparation.

🎯 Why This Programme Is a Strong Choice for You

Combines rigorous mathematical training with practical computing skills, providing a versatile and highly employable degree.
Develops strong problem-solving, analytical, and programming capabilities suitable for careers in software development, data science, AI, finance, and research.
Flexible curriculum allows specialization toward either mathematical theory or advanced computing topics.
Final-year project offers the chance to work on real-world problems or research-oriented applications, enhancing your practical experience and portfolio.
Placement year and study abroad options allow you to gain professional and global experience before graduating, making you highly competitive in the job market.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Bath’s BSc Computer Science & Mathematics gain a strong foundation in both computational thinking and advanced mathematical analysis. This combination equips students for careers in technology, data science, software development, finance, analytics, and research. The degree emphasizes problem-solving, programming, and mathematical modelling — highly sought-after skills across multiple industries.

Typical job roles include:

Software Developer or Engineer
Data Scientist or Data Analyst
Quantitative or Financial Analyst
Computational Scientist or Research Analyst
Technology Consultant

How Bath supports your career success:

Integrated Curriculum: Students study core topics in algorithms, programming, computational mathematics, statistics, and applied mathematics, building both computational and analytical skills.
Practical Project Experience: Hands-on programming projects, mathematical modelling exercises, and group work prepare students for real-world problem-solving and technical collaboration.
Optional Placement and Study Opportunities: Professional placement or study-abroad options allow students to gain industry experience or international exposure, strengthening employability and professional networks.
Careers and Skills Support: Bath’s Careers Service provides personalised guidance, workshops, interview prep, CV support, and access to employer networks across tech, finance, analytics, and consulting sectors.
Transferable Skills: Graduates develop logical reasoning, algorithmic thinking, programming expertise, data analysis, and project management skills — valued in technology, research, finance, and consulting industries.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this BSc, students can pursue:

Master’s degrees (MSc) in computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, software engineering, applied mathematics, or computational mathematics.
PhD studies in computer science, mathematics, computational modelling, or data science for research-focused careers.
Specialist professional qualifications in technology, data analytics, or finance to enhance career prospects in chosen sectors.

Long-Term Value & Graduate Outcomes

The BSc in Computer Science & Mathematics at Bath equips graduates with a versatile and high-demand skill set, combining computational expertise with analytical and mathematical reasoning. This makes graduates adaptable for technology, finance, research, and analytics careers, while also providing a solid foundation for postgraduate study or long-term career growth.