Taught by discipline specialists and informed by industry, this course brings together the complementary fields of computer science and mathematics, and offers opportunities to specialise and apply your learning in practical ways.
In our changing world, the field of computer science which is underpinned by mathematics is a driving force behind many of the transformative technological breakthroughs that have shaped our lives. The skills required by today's dynamic tech sector demand a robust knowledge of mathematical fundamentals, statistics and machine learning.
The BSc in Computer Science and Mathematics allows you to explore the connections between the two fields and provides the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in a data-driven workplace. At Durham, learning is informed by our close collaborations with high-tech industries and employers, which affords us invaluable insights into emerging trends and priorities in the industry.
An equal balance of Computer Science and Mathematics in Year 1 includes computer science, pure mathematics, statistics and probability, before moving on to a range of option modules in innovative technological applications during Year 2. This provides a strong foundation from which you can explore more advanced topics in statistics, artificial intelligence and data science in the final year. The final year also includes an individual project and the option to complete our interdisciplinary enterprise module. This module develops complementary graduate skills as you work in groups to develop a business plan to bid for mock research funding.
The wide array of option modules provides the flexibility to tailor your learning in line with your evolving interests. In addition, the common first year allows the option to transfer onto either the MSci Computer Science and Mathematics, BSc Computer Science, BSc Mathematics degree or BSc Natural Sciences at the end of Year 1.
A degree in Computing and Mathematics opens doors to a wide range of exciting roles where you can make a real difference in the world. And in this fast-evolving field, you're not just preparing for the jobs that exist today, you’re also equipping yourself with the skills to thrive in new and emerging areas.
Course structure
Year 1
Core modules:
Computational Thinking explores the breadth of computer science and the ways in which the different topics are linked. You will learn the importance of computation and computational thinking in the modern world and the impact it has on technology advances in different settings.
Algorithms and Data Structures introduces the theory and practice of problem-solving in computing through the development of algorithms and their associated data structures, for common computer science problems. Content included machine modelling, control flow structures and analysis of algorithms.
Calculus builds on ideas of differentiation and integration in A level mathematics. The module begins with functions of a single variable before moving on to functions of several variables. Topics include methods of solving ordinary and partial differential equations, and an introduction to Taylor series, Fourier series and Fourier transforms.
Linear Algebra presents mathematical ideas, techniques in linear algebra and develops the geometric intuition and familiarity with vector methods you will need for more challenging material later in the course.
Probability introduces mathematical ideas on probability in preparation for more demanding material later in the course. The module builds problem solving skills through the exploration of a mathematical subject of relevance to the real-world (applied) that is based on rigorous mathematical foundations (pure).
Statistics introduces frequentist and Bayesian approaches and demonstrates the relevance of these principles and procedures using real problems. This introductory module lays the foundations for all subsequent study of statistics.
In recent years, option modules have included:
Computer Systems
Programming
Year 2
All second-year modules are chosen from options.
In recent years option modules have included:
Theory of Computation
Programming Paradigms
Artificial Intelligence
Data Science
Probability
Statistical Modelling
Statistical Inference
Data Science and Statistical Computing
Algebra.
Year 3 (Year 4 if undertaking a placement or year abroad)
You can choose from several opportunities for the final-year individual Project. Using the knowledge and tools from the course you will complete either a detailed and critical examination of a relevant area of computer science; investigate a topic of interest; or perform an in-depth analysis of a data set under the supervision of a member of academic staff. The project further develops your skills and ability to plan and manage your own learning, and then present your findings and conclusions.
The remainder of the year is made up of option modules, which in recent years have included:
Algorithmic Game Theory
Bioinformatics
Deep Learning
Human-AI Interaction Design
Recommender Systems
Reinforcement Learning
Natural Computing Algorithms
Advanced Statistical Modelling
Bayesian Computation and Modelling
Cryptography And Codes
Decision Theory
Machine Learning and Neural Networks
Mathematical Finance
Operations Research
Stochastic Processes
Science Enterprise.
Placement
You may be able to take a work placement. Find out more.
Learning is centred in a modern purpose-built space containing lecture and seminar rooms, open-plan workspace, breakout areas, labs, and computer rooms.
For most modules, you will attend lectures supported by small-group tutorials, problem classes, homework problems, written and oral presentations, and individual projects. You will also take part in computer practicals where you put into practice what you learn in lectures.
We place great emphasis on high-quality small-group teaching, which includes one-on-one attention from your academic advisors, self-directed learning to develop your critical thinking skills, and collaborative working with other students.
As you move into the final year, the focus on self-directed learning and independent research increases as you begin to prepare for professional or postgraduate life.
Assessment
Some modules are assessed entirely through coursework (which may involve problem solving exercises, practical work and assignments) and others by examination, while others are by a combination of methods.
The final-year project is an opportunity to bring your prior learning to a project of your choice. The project is completed under the supervision of an academic from your chosen subject area and makes up one-third of your final-year marks.
Entry requirements
A*AA including either A*A in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level or A* in Maths plus A in AS Further Maths.
Contextual offer: AAB-A*AC-A*BB
EITHER AAB including AA in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level OR AAB including A in Maths plus A in AS Further Maths OR A*AC including either A*A in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level OR A*BB including A* in Maths plus A in AS Further Maths.
and either A*A in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level or A* in Maths plus A in AS Further Maths (or equivalent) is required.
IB Diploma: 38
including 7 in Higher Level Mathematics (maths analysis & approaches) and 66 in two other Higher Level subjects.
In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:
· We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study.
· There is no advantage in applying for both MSci and BSc degrees.
· Entry requirements are the same for both MSci and BSc degrees.
· We do not include General Studies or Critical Thinking as part of our offer.
· We are pleased to consider applications for deferred entry.
The tuition fees for 2025/26 academic year have not yet been finalised, they will be displayed here once approved.
The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and will be subject to an annual inflationary increase and are expected to rise throughout the programme of study. The fee listed above is for the first year of the course only; fees for subsequent years will be confirmed not less than 3 months before the start of the academic year to which the increase is intended to apply and will be published on the Finance webpages here [link].
In deciding the annual level of increase the University will take into account inflationary pressures on the costs of delivery. Tuition fees will rise annually by up to the higher of;
6%, or,
the latest annual percentage increase in the Consumer Prices Index.
Graduates acquire a valuable range of subject-specific skills across disciplines with the capacity to make creative connections. They are highly employable in a diverse range of careers and sectors.
Natural Sciences graduates have the academic knowledge, flexibility and technical skills to take on roles including consulting, accounting, banking and investment, research, software engineer, data scientist, international development, and government.
Department information
Natural Sciences
Real-world challenges often require multidisciplinary solutions. Our Natural Sciences degrees allow students to combine either traditional Joint-Honours degrees or transcend traditional subject boundaries, bringing together a range of ideas and disciplinary perspectives.
You can study for a BSc or MSci. Both qualifications allow you to design your own degree, majoring in at least one science subject: Biology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Earth Sciences; Mathematics; Physics; and Psychology; with the possibility of studying a second science discipline, Anthropology, Business, Economics, Education, Geography, Philosophy or Sport & Exercise Sciences.
Focus on two subjects from the outset, or choose a broader range of modules across three or four subjects. These highly flexible courses include the opportunity to undertake a year abroad or a placement year, to develop additional skills and enjoy new experiences.
Natural Sciences is a challenging and rewarding choice for science students who wish to study more than one subject.
Rankings
90% of courses are in the UK Top 10 in The Complete University Guide 2024
50th in the World for employer reputation in the QS World University Rankings 2024
Top 100 in the QS World University Rankings 2024
Natural Sciences: 2nd in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
Facilities
You will have access to a wide range of facilities across multiple departments. Facilities will depend on the subject specialism but include laboratories, libraries, project spaces, lecture theatres, study and networking spaces as well as shared social spaces.
You will also benefit from excellent IT facilities including Learn Ultra, Durham’s virtual learning environment. You will have access to up to 1.6 million printed books, 25,000 eJournals and over 850,000 eBooks in the main library. Most departments are close to the historic centre of Durham which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Apply
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Use the UCAS code below when applying:
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The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) handles applications for all undergraduate courses.
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