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(Full time) 2023 start

Computer Science and Mathematics MSci, BSc

Overview

Computer science is vital to how we live in the digital age and seek to evolve in every part of our lives. Combining it with mathematics - one of the most fundamental and highly valued disciplines - will put you in an excellent position to tackle many of the major challenges facing the modern world.

From games to cyber-security, from finance to analysis of business and networks, from engineering to medicine – the current generation of computer science and mathematics specialists are breaking boundaries and making discoveries with real-world impact every day.

A degree in Computer Science and Mathematics from Leeds will give you the skills you need to master the latest developments in algorithms, artificial intelligence, data analytics, computational science and much more. You'll use logical and creative thinking skills to solve puzzles and practical problems through your studies, applying what you’ve learned to an individual research project.

You’ll study amongst experts and benefit from the specialist facilities and world-class expertise from two separate Schools - the School of Computing and the School of Mathematics. We place equal weight on both subjects to allow you to gain strong foundations in each.

Here at Leeds, we understand the importance these disciplines have in everyday life, which is why our teaching is closely informed by research and innovation across a wide range of topics that touch a multitude of industries. Skills in these cutting-edge areas will give you the knowledge and experience you need to stand out to prospective employers and begin your career.

Why study at Leeds:

Course content

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.

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.

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.

(Optional) One-year work placement or study abroad

To advance your skill set and boost your experience, you can choose to take up an industrial placement or study abroad at one of the many universities we’re in partnership with worldwide. Both of these options will extend your degree by 12 months.

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.

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

Compulsory modules

  • Databases 10 credits
  • Computer Processors 10 credits
  • Introduction to Discrete Mathematics 10 credits
  • Procedural Programming 10 credits
  • Object Oriented Programming 10 credits
  • Core Mathematics 50 credits
  • Number Systems 15 credits
  • Probability and Statistics I 10 credits

Year 2

Compulsory modules

  • Data Mining 10 credits
  • Formal Languages and Finite Automata 10 credits
  • Numerical Computation 10 credits
  • Artificial Intelligence 10 credits
  • Algorithms and Data Structures I 10 credits
  • Algorithms and Data Structures II 10 credits
  • Compiler Design and Construction 10 credits
  • Groups and Vector Spaces 15 credits
  • Logic 10 credits
  • Vector Calculus 15 credits
  • Linear Differential Equations and Transforms 15 credits

Year 3

Compulsory modules

  • Individual Project 40 credits
  • Graph Algorithms and Complexity Theory 10 credits

Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

  • Distributed Systems 10 credits
  • Parallel Computation 10 credits
  • Cryptography 10 credits
  • Machine Learning 10 credits
  • Computer Graphics 10 credits
  • Combinatorial Optimisation 10 credits
  • Graph Theory 15 credits
  • Proof and Computation 15 credits
  • Combinatorics 15 credits
  • Mathematical Methods 15 credits
  • Linear and Non-Linear Waves 15 credits
  • Mathematical Biology 15 credits

Year 4

Compulsory modules

  • Knowledge Representation and Reasoning 15 credits
  • Scientific Computation 15 credits

Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

  • Group Project 30 credits
  • Machine Learning 15 credits
  • Artificial Intelligence 15 credits
  • Data Mining and Text Analytics 15 credits
  • Cloud Computing 15 credits
  • Advanced Software Engineering 15 credits
  • Graph Theory: Structure and Algorithms 15 credits
  • Graph Theory 15 credits
  • Number Theory 15 credits
  • Proof and Computation 15 credits
  • Combinatorics 15 credits
  • Mathematical Methods 15 credits
  • Linear and Non-Linear Waves 15 credits
  • Introduction to Entropy in the Physical World 15 credits
  • Mathematical Biology 15 credits
  • Advanced Proof and Computation 20 credits
  • Advanced Mathematical Methods 20 credits
  • Advanced Linear and Nonlinear Waves 20 credits
  • Advanced Entropy in the Physical World 20 credits
  • Advanced Mathematical Biology 20 credits

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:

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, fees and applying

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 Leaving Certificate (higher Level)

    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. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

We typically receive a high number of applications for this course. To ensure we treat all applications fairly, we may put your application on hold until after the UCAS deadline before making a final decision. All applications received before the UCAS deadline are guaranteed equal consideration.

This course is not accepting applications for deferred entry.

Read our admissions guidance and see ‘application decisions’ for details.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK 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.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2023

Fees

UK: £9,250

International: £26,500 (per year)

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2022/23
For UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2022/23 the fee 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 government and may vary if policy changes.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students for 2023/24 have been agreed by the UK Government and will remain at the current fee level of £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 government and may vary if policy changes.

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for international students for 2023/24 should be available on individual course pages from September 2022.

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.

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.

Career opportunities

The IT industry is booming and demand for computer science graduates looks set to continue at a pace. Graduating with a degree in Computer Science and Mathematics makes you extremely employable, so you could benefit from exciting experiences in both sectors. This interdisciplinary course develops your skills at the intersection of both areas, giving you an edge over other graduates.

Drawing together solid mathematical foundations and their applications in computing equips you with the skills to model and analyse 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. It also provides you with the analytical, problem-solving and technical skills that are prized in a number of industrial sectors.

University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2022, High Fliers Research. Our graduates find employment across a range of sectors including:

  • Technology

  • Consultancies

  • Banking and investment

  • Retail

  • Finance

  • Public authority

Many graduates have launched careers as software developers and engineers, mobile solution engineers, technology consulting analysts, production project managers and business system analysts at organisations including:

  • Software Engineer, BP

  • Maths Teacher, Secondary School

  • Software Quality Assurance Analyst, Sherwood Technology Solutions

  • Software Developer, TPP

  • DPhil Student, University of Oxford

  • Junior Developer, Weaveability

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.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world, whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.

From Europe to Asia, the USA to Australasia, we have many University partners worldwide you can apply to, spanning across some of the most popular destinations for students.

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

Work placements

The graduate recruitment market is highly competitive so it’s important that you stand out. An industrial placement could be the opportunity you need to impress potential employers and improve your chances of securing the career you want.

Benefits of a work placement year:

  • 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas

  • All placements are salaried

  • Build industry contacts within your chosen field

  • Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers

  • Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice

  • Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry

  • Improve your employability

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.

With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can find the right placement to suit you and your future career goals.

Here are some examples of placements our computing students have recently completed:

  • Software Engineer Placement, Lloyds Banking Group

  • Systems Developer, Medication Management Robotics

  • Industrial Placement, GlaxoSmithKline R&D

  • Software Engineering Intern, HP Inc UK

  • Web Development Industrial Placement, UK Research and Innovation, STFC

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.