Computer Science and Mathematics MSci, BSc

Do you enjoy logical and creative thinking for solving puzzles and practical problems? Do you want to break boundaries and make discoveries with real-world impacts? With a degree in Computer Science and Mathematics, you will be in an excellent position to master the latest developments in algorithms, artificial intelligence, data analytics, computational science and much more.

This MSci, BSc programme is co-taught by the School of Computing and School of Mathematics, with the aim of preparing the next generation to meet some of the major challenges facing the modern world. You’ll gain the skills to pursue opportunities across a wide range of application areas, from games to cyber-security, from finance to analysis of business and networks, from engineering to medicine.

We place equal weight on both subjects to allow you to gain strong foundations as well as practical expertise. Mathematics and computer science offer complementary insights into topics such as logic, algorithms, graph theory, optimisation and machine learning, scientific computing and big data, all of which you will explore in this degree.

You will study among experts in specialist facilities, benefiting from world-class expertise in both schools. You will also apply what you’ve learned to an individual research project, helping you to develop the range of skills and experience you will need for a professional or academic career.

Course highlights

• Our courses are shaped by our world-leading research in areas such as artificial intelligence, computational science and engineering, computational medicine and distributed systems.

• We’re ranked top ten in the UK for Computer Science (Complete University Guide 2021)

• We’re a partner of the Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and artificial intelligence.

• During your project work you will access specialist facilities and laboratories in the brand new Sir William Henry Bragg Building.

• Small tutorial groups are used to support the teaching, so you get regular feedback from the academic staff helping you solve any problems that you might have with a particular topic.

Research excellence

Our teaching is closely informed by research and innovation across algorithms and complexity, artificial intelligence, computational science engineering, distributed systems engineering and applied computing in biology, medicine and health. This offers a wide range of exciting areas for your final year project, where you will work on a cutting-edge topic of your choice under close expert supervision.

Researchers in the School of Computing and the School of Mathematics collaborate closely across a number of areas and are involved with:

• The Alan Turing Institute, the UK's world-leading institute for data science and artificial intelligence.

• The Leeds Institute for Data Analytics, which brings together over 200 researchers and data scientists within the University of Leeds.

• The Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics, with the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Fluid Dynamics.

• The UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training in Artificial Intelligence for Medical Diagnosis and Care

Specialist facilities

You will have access to specialist facilities including well-equipped labs containing Linux and Microsoft platforms. For final-year project work you will also be able to make the most of our research facilities, such as a 53-megapixel Powerwall display and dedicated 3D virtual reality suite, a new testbed for cloud computing and dedicated labs with high-spec, dual-display Linux workstations, iPad, Mac and Android development areas, as well as access to world-class robotics labs.

Find out more about our facilities.

Enhancing your degree

During your time at Leeds, you can decide to study abroad or undertake an industrial placement.

You can choose to take either the four-year Integrated Masters (MSci, BSc) or the three-year Bachelor’s (BSc) degree on this course. Find out more about the MSci, BSc and BSc.

Throughout your degree, you will develop mathematical skills and knowledge side-by-side with your understanding of computer programming and architecture. You will graduate as a multi-skilled computer scientist with a wide array of career options.

Discovery modules are available in all years of your degree, as long as you are taking enough credits of your own subject for that year.

Year one

Your first year will introduce you to a range of fundamental topics in both computing and mathematics, including computer programming, modelling, pure and applied mathematics, databases and statistics.

Year two

Building on this, in your second year you will study subjects including algorithms, data mining, formal languages, logic, artificial intelligence numerical computation and selected topics from algebra and calculus.

If you are studying a BSc, you may decide to take an additional industrial placement or study abroad year in between the second and third year of your degree.

Year three

Your third year will provide you with specialised knowledge in the areas of algorithms, graph theory, modelling and AI, with modules including machine learning and combinatorial optimisation. Optional modules allow you to shape your curriculum towards Algorithms and Discrete Mathematics, Data Science, or Modelling and Artificial Intelligence.

Year 3 also gives you the chance to research a related topic in-depth, when you complete an individual project under the guidance of your academic supervisor.

If you are studying an MSci, you may decide to take an additional industrial placement or study abroad year in between the third and fourth year of your degree.

Year four (MSci)

If you continue onto Year 4 to gain the MSci qualification, you will undertake a major piece of group work, and optional modules in the final year of the MSci will allow you to focus on one of three individual specialisms: Algorithms and Complexity, Computational Science, or Artificial Intelligence.

Projects

Your third year individual project is your chance to put everything you’ve learned together, in an area of your interest.

Guided by an academic supervisor from the School of Computing, you may tackle a theoretical study, an exploratory software development, a software product or an empirical investigation. It is also possible have a co-supervisor from the School of Mathematics, or to do a joint project with one of our industrial partners.

You can choose from a wide range of topics, offered by experts of their fields, or even propose your own topic. Regular meetings with your supervisor(s) will offer guidance and support you to develop your full potential.

Finally, in your MSci year you’ll undertake a major group project that will further develop your research, teamwork, and project management skills, which includes a presentation and report writing.

Find out more about projects in years 3 and 4.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Computer Science and Mathematics MSci, BSc in the course catalogue

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Computer Science and Mathematics BSc in the course catalogue

Modules

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Discovery modules

Throughout your degree you will benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.

This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching

Learning across the two schools will provide a wide foundation and experience. You will benefit from encountering different ways of thinking and developing a range of problem-solving skills and approaches, with our tailored guidance providing bridges between topics in both subjects.

You’ll study among academics who are leading their fields. Our research feeds directly into our teaching, meaning you’ll learn about the very latest developments in your subject while gaining the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of the IT industry.

To help you benefit from our expertise, we use a range of teaching and learning methods including lectures, lab classes, tutorials and example classes. Together they will equip you with in-depth knowledge and key practical skills that will put you in a good position to compete in science and technology-related careers. You’ll also work with an academic supervisor on your projects.

Our personal tutorial system will provide academic and pastoral support. You will have a designated personal tutor throughout your studies at Leeds. He or she will be an academic member of staff: you will have weekly academic tutorials with your tutor throughout your first year, in your tutor group (of typically 5 students), as well as one-to-one meetings twice per semester.

In addition, our excellent student support team is based close to where you’ll work and study to help with anything from academic advice to timetabling and project submission enquiries.

Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for the School, your programme and modules.

You can also benefit from support to develop your academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, one-to-one appointments and drop-in sessions.

Watch our taster lectures to get a flavour of what it’s like to study at Leeds:

• Autonomous Robotic Manipulation

• From Computing on the Cloud to the Edge

On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

You’ll be assessed using various methods including formal exams, lab practicals and project reports. Throughout the year, you’ll also be assessed using coursework, worksheets, in-module tests, example sheets and presentations to develop your knowledge and allow us to monitor your progress.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA including Mathematics, excluding General Studies.

Where an A-level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.

Excludes A-level General Studies or Critical Thinking.

GCSE: English Language at grade C (4) or above, or an appropriate English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.

Other course specific tests:

Extended Project Qualification and International Project Qualification: Whilst we recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, we do not currently include them as part of our offer-making. We do, however, encourage you to provide further information on your project in your personal statement.

• Access to HE Diploma

  Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, 30 credits with Distinction (including an appropriate number of Mathematics modules) and the remaining 15 credits with Merit or above.

• BTEC

  D*D*D with Distinctions in all Mathematics units. Mathematics units must include Further Mathematics. This unit may be optional on your BTEC but is it required by the Faculty. Please contact us for further information. Please note: there may be different requirements for the new RQF BTECs, please contact Admissions.

  Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

• Cambridge Pre-U

  D3, D3, D3 including Mathematics.

• International Baccalaureate

  35 points overall with 18 points at Higher level to include 5 in HL Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or 6 in HL Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation or 5 in HL Computing. If only Computing is offered from the IB, Grade B or above in GCSE Mathematics (or equivalent) is required.

• Irish Highers (Leaving Certificate)

  H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2, including Mathematics.

• Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers

  AA at Advanced Higher level, including Mathematics, and AABBB at Higher level.

• Other Qualifications

  IT or Engineering Diploma: A (plus A or above in Mathematics or Computing in A-level).

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is an alternative admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and alternative admissions.

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a foundation year. We offer a Studies in Science with a Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.

Typical Access to Leeds offer: ABB, including an A in Mathematics or Computing. Grade B (6) or above in GCSE Mathematics is required if no Mathematics A-level is taken.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each section. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

How to apply

Apply to this course through UCAS. The institution code for the University of Leeds is L23. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK/EU students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Visit days

If you receive an offer to study with us, we’ll invite you to attend one of our applicant days. You’ll have the opportunity to meet our academic staff and students, explore the School and University and find out more about your course and what it’s like to be a student at Leeds.

Admissions policy

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Policy 2021

Fees

UK: To be confirmed

International: To be confirmed

UK undergraduate tuition fees for 2021 entry 
For UK full-time students starting in 2021, the fee for 2021/22 will be £9,250.

The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the UK government and may vary if policy changes.

EU students starting in 2021/22 
EU students starting their course in the 2021/22 academic year or later will now be classed as international students and so will need to pay the international student tuition fee.

UK undergraduate tuition fees for 2022 entry
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2022/23 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. In other years, the government has confirmed fee levels in the summer. When the fee is confirmed we will publish an update on all course pages.

Tuition fees for new international students for 2022 entry
Tuition fees for international students are published on each individual course page. These are usually published a year in advance, so 2022 course fees should be available from September 2021.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Brexit 
Visit our Brexit page for the latest information on the effect of the UK's exit from the EU on current students and applicants to the University.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs

Financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

A degree from Leeds and the experience you'll gain here will give you the edge to find the career you want. Your course will give you the experience and knowledge that employers are looking for to help you secure a graduate job.

University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2021, High Fliers Research.

Studying Computer Science and Mathematics means you will be extremely employable, as you’ll benefit from exciting experiences in both sectors. This interdisciplinary course brings together diverse opportunities that allow you to develop your skills at the intersection of both areas, giving you an edge over other graduates.

The course draws together solid mathematical foundations and their applications in computing and equips you with the skills of modelling and analysing real-world computational problems. It prepares you for a career working in science and technology and is an excellent basis for further research at Masters or PhD level, leaving you well-placed for a career in research and development. It also provides you with analytical, problem-solving and technical skills that are prized in a number of industrial sectors. Recent graduates from the School have found roles such as:

• software developers and engineers

• technology consulting analysts

• research engineers

• production project managers

• business system analysts

They’ve gone to work for organisations like BAE Systems, Barclays, BT, Deloitte, Gazprom, IBM, IG, Microsoft, Toshiba Research Europe Ltd and Weaveability, among others. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll be able to apply your knowledge to real-life problems to make an impact in your sector.

Read our alumni profiles to find out more about where our students are working.

Careers support

At Leeds we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. We will help you to access opportunities across the University and record your key achievements so you are able to articulate them clearly and confidently.

You will be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers.

You will also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.

Visit our Careers and employability page to find out more.

There are also plenty of exciting ways you can volunteer during your time at Leeds. Find out more at the Leeds University Union website.

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

The optional study abroad year takes place between years two and three for the BSc degree or three and four for the MSci degree, and will extend your studies by 12 months. You will return to Leeds to complete your final year of study.

Work placements

Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

An industrial placement year is a great way to help you decide what kind of career you might like when you graduate. As well as giving you the opportunity to develop your skills, you’ll gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector.

With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can choose to undertake a salaried industrial placement year at one of the 100+ companies that we work with. If you decide to undertake a placement year this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you will be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

Below are examples of companies where Computing students have recently completed placements:

• Expedia Group

• NHS Digital

• X-Lab Systems

• Amazon Data Services

• Pulse Secure

• GE Aviation

• Sophos

• Plymouth Marine Laboratory

During your industrial placement you will have an industrial supervisor from within the company, plus an academic supervisor who will keep in touch throughout your placement.

Find out more about Industrial placements.