Mathematics and Statistics BSc (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) in Mathematics and Statistics equips students with strong analytical, quantitative, and statistical skills, preparing them for careers in data science, finance, actuarial work, and research. It is ideal for students who enjoy both theoretical mathematics and practical statistical applications.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Students begin with foundational courses in mathematics and statistics, including Introduction to Mathematics at University, Linear Algebra 1, Introduction to Mathematical Analysis, and Probability and Statistics. This year provides the essential toolkit for both mathematical reasoning and data analysis.

Year 2
In the second year, students deepen their knowledge with courses such as Several Variable Calculus and Differential Equations, Fundamentals of Pure Mathematics, Computing and Numerics, and Statistical Methods. This year strengthens both theoretical and applied skills, preparing students for honours-level study.

Year 3 (Honours completion)
The final year focuses on advanced mathematics and statistics, including courses like Honours Analysis, Honours Algebra, Statistical Modelling, and Applied Probability. Students also complete a major project or dissertation, demonstrating their ability to integrate mathematical and statistical methods in independent research.

Focus areas: Pure and applied mathematics, statistical modelling, data analysis, computational techniques

Learning outcomes: Students will gain expertise in mathematical reasoning, statistical analysis, computational methods, and independent research skills

Professional alignment (accreditation): Prepares students for careers in finance, data science, actuarial work, and research, with training aligned to professional and industry standards

Reputation (employability rankings): The School of Mathematics at Edinburgh is highly regarded in the UK, with graduates recognized for strong analytical and quantitative skills

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Mathematics and Statistics BSc at Edinburgh equips students with a strong foundation in both pure mathematics and statistics while emphasizing practical, real-world applications. Students develop analytical, computational, and problem-solving skills through interactive lectures, workshops, and project-based learning. The program encourages hands-on experience with statistical software, data analysis, and mathematical modeling, preparing students for careers in research, finance, technology, and beyond.

Key experiential learning opportunities include:

Interactive tutorials and workshops: Small-group sessions where students practice problem-solving, data analysis, and mathematical modeling.
Computational tools and software: Training in statistical and mathematical software such as R, Python, and MATLAB for data analysis and simulations.
Group projects: Collaborative coursework enhances teamwork, communication, and practical application of mathematical concepts.
Final-year project: An independent research project or consultancy-style project allows students to apply knowledge to real-world problems under academic supervision.
Peer mentoring and support: Access to MathsBase drop-in help and peer-assisted learning schemes (MathPALS) for guidance and collaborative learning.
Field-relevant case studies: Students engage with applied statistical projects, data-driven problem solving, and modeling exercises relevant to industry and research.
Facilities: Dedicated study spaces such as MathsHub, specialized libraries at King’s Buildings, and integration with the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, supporting both learning and research development.
Optional study abroad: Opportunities to gain international experience and broaden academic perspectives.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the Mathematics and Statistics BSc programme often pursue careers in data analysis, actuarial science, finance, and technology. Typical roles include data analyst, actuarial consultant, statistical modeller, and risk analyst. The programme equips students with strong analytical, computational, and statistical skills highly valued across multiple sectors:

University Services: The University of Edinburgh’s Careers Service offers personalised guidance, internship support, CV workshops, and access to alumni networks to help students secure graduate roles.
Employment Stats & Salaries: Mathematics and Statistics graduates typically earn around £28,000–£32,000 within 15 months of graduation, with higher earning potential in specialised sectors such as finance and tech.
University–Industry Partnerships: The School of Mathematics collaborates with industry on consultancy projects and applied research exercises, providing students with real-world experience.
Long-term Accreditation Value: This degree provides a robust foundation for professional qualifications in actuarial science and statistics, as well as eligibility for graduate-level roles in data-driven industries.
Graduation Outcomes: Students gain strong theoretical understanding, practical statistical and computational skills, and experience completing research or consultancy-style projects.

Further Academic Progression:

Graduates can progress to MSc programmes in Mathematics, Statistics, Financial Mathematics, or Data Science.
Those aiming for research careers can pursue a PhD in Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or related fields, building on skills and projects completed during their undergraduate studies.

Additional Information & Requirements

A-LEVEL: Students must present A*A*A* to A*AB in one exam sitting, including Mathematics at A*, with Further Mathematics preferred. The Mathematics grade must be achieved within two academic years of entry.
IB: Applicants need 38 points with 766 HL to 34 points with 765 HL, including HL Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches) at grade 7. They must also hold SL English at grade 5, with Maths completed within the last two years.
INDIA (CBSE / CISCE / STATE BOARDS): Students must have Class XII with five subjects and 80% overall, including 80% in required subjects, or 85% where an A-equivalent is needed. CBSE Applied Mathematics is not accepted for fulfilling the Mathematics requirement.
AMERICAN (GPA / AP / SAT / ACT): Entry requires ACT 27 + two APs at 4+, or SAT 1290+ with two APs at 4+, or three APs at 4+. A minimum GPA of 3.3 on the 4.0 scale must also be demonstrated on the high school transcript.
IELTS: Applicants need an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band below 5.5, showing balanced proficiency. IELTS One Skill Retake is not accepted, so scores must come from one test session.
TOEFL: A TOEFL-iBT score of 92 is required, with at least 20 in each section to show all-round English ability. TOEFL MyBest Scores are not accepted, meaning results must come from one complete test sitting.
GCSE: Candidates must hold GCSE English at grade C or 4, demonstrating essential English competency. This requirement remains mandatory regardless of higher-level academic qualifications.
UCAS: All applications must be submitted via UCAS, with predicted grades and documents matching the university’s academic standards. Entries must be accurate, complete, and aligned with official transcripts.