BSc Mathematics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Bath

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Mathematics at Bath gives you a flexible and deep grounding in pure mathematics, applied mathematics and/or statistics — perfect if you enjoy logical thinking, problem‑solving, and want broad mathematical training that keeps your future paths open (academia, data science, finance, research, etc.). The course balances rigorous theory with applied and computational elements, letting you shape your degree around what excites you most.

Curriculum Structure

First Year

In Year 1 you lay the foundations across both pure and applied mathematics. Core units include Applied Mathematics 1A and 1B (introducing calculus in multiple dimensions, linear differential equations, probability theory, basic programming in Python, and statistical basics) and Pure Mathematics 1A and 1B (covering algebra, sets/functions, analysis — limits, continuity, differentiation/integration — and linear algebra via matrices and vector spaces). This gives you a solid base in mathematical reasoning, calculus, algebra, programming and basic statistics.

Second Year

In Year 2 all 120 credits are option‑based (i.e. you pick from a broad set of units). This is your chance to begin specialising — whether you lean toward pure mathematics (advanced algebra, analysis, topology etc.), or applied mathematics/statistics/data‑oriented tracks (numerical analysis, probability & statistics, machine learning, computational maths), or even inter‑department crosses (like physics or economics) if you wish. This flexibility makes it easy to tailor your path to your interests.

Third Year

In the final year you continue specialising: you choose your 120 credits from final‑year options. Available modules include advanced topics such as Group Theory & Representations, Topology, Complex Analysis, Differential Geometry, Discrete Probability, Probability & Finance, Mathematical Biology, Fluid Dynamics, Numerical Linear Algebra & Optimisation, Statistical Modelling & Data Analytics, Medical Statistics, Graph Theory, and others. This lets you shape a final-year profile that matches your ambitions — whether theoretical, applied, or data-driven.

Focus Areas

Pure mathematics (algebra, analysis, topology, geometry), applied mathematics, probability & statistics, computational mathematics, data analytics & modelling, mathematical biology/physics applications — broadly, both theoretical and practical mathematics.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate with strong formal reasoning and proof skills, deep understanding of mathematical structures and analysis, competence in applied mathematics and statistics, familiarity with computational tools (e.g. programming, data analysis), and flexibility to apply maths in varied contexts. You’ll also build transferable skills such as logical reasoning, problem‑solving, computational thinking, modelling, and analytical communication — valuable in almost any quantitative or research‑oriented career.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation / Employability)

Because the degree combines pure maths, applied maths and statistics — and offers optional modules in data‑related and applied topics — it prepares you well for careers in data science, finance, actuarial work, analytics, research, engineering, teaching, and further academic study. The flexible structure gives you strong quantitative and computational capabilities that employers value.

Reputation (Employability & Strengths)

Bath’s Mathematics course is well‑respected: the department balances strong teaching and active research, and students benefit from access to a support centre (MASH — Maths & Statistics Help), tutorials, and even High‑Performance Computing facilities for advanced study or computational projects. The flexibility and breadth of the course mean graduates are well-equipped for both academic progression and industry roles across diverse sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Mathematics programme at Bath combines rigorous academic training with practical, hands-on learning. From Year 1, you develop a strong foundation in pure and applied mathematics, statistics, and computational methods. As you progress, you apply these skills through problem-solving, programming projects, and analytical assignments. Optional placement or study-abroad years give real-world experience, further enhancing employability. The programme encourages independent learning while providing strong academic support and resources to ensure students excel.

Transitioning to the specific experiential learning opportunities:

• Strong foundation in pure & applied mathematics

Year 1 covers calculus, linear algebra, probability, statistics, logic, and introductory programming.
This provides a broad mathematical base to progress into more specialised areas in later years.

• Flexibility from Year 2 onward

Students choose optional units in pure mathematics (e.g., algebra, analysis, topology), applied mathematics, numerical methods, statistics, and computational mathematics.
Final-year options allow advanced study in topics such as graph theory, machine learning, optimisation, and statistical modelling.

• Programming and computational mathematics

Applied mathematics units incorporate programming in Python and computational techniques.
These skills are highly relevant for data analysis, simulation, and modelling tasks.

• Support infrastructure and learning resources

Access to the Maths and Statistics Help Centre (MASH) provides guidance on revision, coursework, and study skills.
Academic advising and tutorials help students transition from school-level to university-level mathematics.

• Optional professional placement or study abroad

The degree offers the chance to undertake a placement year or study abroad, providing practical experience and professional exposure.
This prepares students for careers in industry or gives valuable experience for postgraduate study.

• Transferable skills

Across all modules, students develop logical reasoning, problem-solving, analytical thinking, statistical understanding, and computational proficiency.
These skills are applicable in data science, finance, research, analytics, engineering, and further study.

Who this course suits

Students seeking rigorous mathematical training combined with flexibility to explore pure, applied, or computational mathematics.
Those who want to gain strong technical and computational skills, applicable in data science, analytics, finance, engineering, or research.
Learners who value academic support and access to resources while developing independence.
Students aiming for real-world experience through optional placement or study-abroad opportunities.
Individuals who want a degree that allows exploration before specialising, giving career flexibility and academic breadth.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from University of Bath’s Mathematics BSc combine strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills. Many move into roles such as data analyst/statistician, financial/actuarial analyst, quantitative analyst, software/technology professional, researcher, or teacher. The degree equips students for careers in finance, technology, research, data science, analytics, academia, and public-sector roles.

Typical job roles include:

Data Analyst or Statistical Analyst
Quantitative or Actuarial Analyst
Financial or Business Analyst
Software / Technology Professional
Researcher or Educator

How Bath supports your career success:

Flexible and Broad Curriculum: Students build a foundation in both pure and applied mathematics, including calculus, algebra, probability, statistics, and programming, with optional modules in modelling, data analysis, and applied mathematics to match career goals.
Skill Development: The degree develops problem-solving, analytical thinking, logical reasoning, mathematical modelling, programming, and computational skills — all highly valued across multiple sectors.
Supportive Academic Environment: Students can access support services such as the Maths and Statistics Help centre, providing guidance for coursework and concept mastery.
Placement and Study Abroad Options: Variants with a professional placement or study-abroad year are available, allowing students to gain real-world experience and enhance employability.
Strong Employability & Graduate Outcomes: Bath mathematics graduates often secure highly skilled employment with starting salaries typically around £35,000, depending on the sector.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the BSc in Mathematics at Bath, students have multiple pathways:

Pursue a Master’s (MSc) in applied mathematics, statistics, data science, financial mathematics, computational mathematics, or mathematical modelling.
Undertake a PhD in mathematics or related quantitative disciplines for research or academic careers.
Enter professional fields such as finance, data analytics, actuarial work, technology, or research, possibly supplemented by certifications or further training.