(Full time) 2021 start
Computer Science and Mathematics MSci, BSc

Coronavirus information for applicants and offer holders
We hope that by the time you’re ready to start your studies with us the situation with COVID-19 will have eased. However, please be aware, we will continue to review our courses and other elements of the student experience in response to COVID-19 and we may need to adapt our provision to ensure students remain safe. For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, regularly visit our website, which we will continue to update as the situation changes www.leeds.ac.uk/covid19faqs
Overview
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.
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
Environment and specialist facilities
You will join a community of students and staff from a wide range of backgrounds. We value and promote diversity, inclusivity and mutual respect, providing a supportive environment that strives to make sure that everyone can reach their full potential.
We are proud that our Engineering and Computing schools have been awarded the Athena Swan Silver Award from the Equality Challenge Unit, the national body that promotes equality in the higher education sector. Our equality and inclusion webpage provides more information.
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.
Course content
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.
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.
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.
In Year 4 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.
We have recently developed the content of our Computer Science and Mathematics degree. Take a look at what you are likely to study in 2020. The course catalogue shows the modules studied in 2019.
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.
Modules
Year 1
Compulsory modules
- Computer Architecture 10 credits
- Computer Processors 10 credits
- Fundamental Mathematical Concepts 10 credits
- Introduction to Discrete Mathematics 10 credits
- Procedural Programming 10 credits
- Object Oriented Programming 10 credits
- Calculus and Mathematical Analysis 10 credits
- Numbers and Vectors 10 credits
- Introductory Linear Algebra 10 credits
- Modelling with Differential Equations 10 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Programming for the Web 10 credits
- Databases 10 credits
- Financial Mathematics 1 15 credits
- Probability and Statistics I 10 credits
- Probability and Statistics II 10 credits
Year 2
Compulsory modules
- Numerical Computation 10 credits
- Algorithms and Data Structures I 10 credits
- Algorithms and Data Structures II 10 credits
- Mathematical Logic 1 10 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Operating Systems 10 credits
- Networks 10 credits
- Formal Languages and Finite Automata 10 credits
- Artificial Intelligence 10 credits
- User Interfaces 10 credits
- Software Engineering Principles 10 credits
- Software Engineering Project 10 credits
- Compiler Design and Construction 10 credits
- Real Analysis 15 credits
- Groups and Vector Spaces 15 credits
- Rings and Polynomials 10 credits
- Vector Calculus 15 credits
- Linear Differential Equations and Transforms 15 credits
- Nonlinear Differential Equations 10 credits
- Numerical Analysis 10 credits
- Numerical Analysis with Computation 15 credits
- Introduction to Optimisation 10 credits
- Calculus of Variations 10 credits
- Computational Mathematics 10 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
- Programming Languages and Compilation 10 credits
- Machine Learning 10 credits
- Computer Graphics 10 credits
- Combinatorial Optimisation 10 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Graph Theory 15 credits
- Number Theory 15 credits
- Proof and Computation 15 credits
- Models and Sets 15 credits
- Combinatorics 15 credits
- Coding Theory 15 credits
- Transformation Geometry 15 credits
- Mathematical Methods 15 credits
- Linear and Non-Linear Waves 15 credits
- Dynamical Systems 15 credits
- Introduction to Entropy in the Physical World 15 credits
- Numerical Methods 10 credits
- Modern Numerical Methods 15 credits
- Mathematical Biology 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Advanced Proof and Computation 20 credits
- Advanced Models and Sets 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Linear and Nonlinear Waves 20 credits
- Advanced Dynamical Systems 20 credits
- Advanced Entropy in the Physical World 20 credits
- Advanced Modern Numerical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Biology 20 credits
- Advanced Stochastic Calculus and Applications to Finance 20 credits
Year 4
Compulsory modules
- Algorithms 15 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Bio-Inspired Computing 15 credits
- Group Project 30 credits
- Parallel and Concurrent Programming 15 credits
- Data Mining and Text Analytics 15 credits
- Cloud Computing 15 credits
- Semantic Technologies and Applications 15 credits
- Image Analysis 15 credits
- Advanced Software Engineering 15 credits
- Scheduling 15 credits
- Scientific Computation 15 credits
- Graph Theory: Structure and Algorithms 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Graph Theory 15 credits
- Number Theory 15 credits
- Proof and Computation 15 credits
- Models and Sets 15 credits
- Combinatorics 15 credits
- Coding Theory 15 credits
- Transformation Geometry 15 credits
- Mathematical Methods 15 credits
- Linear and Non-Linear Waves 15 credits
- Dynamical Systems 15 credits
- Introduction to Entropy in the Physical World 15 credits
- Numerical Methods 10 credits
- Modern Numerical Methods 15 credits
- Mathematical Biology 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Advanced Proof and Computation 20 credits
- Advanced Models and Sets 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Linear and Nonlinear Waves 20 credits
- Advanced Dynamical Systems 20 credits
- Advanced Entropy in the Physical World 20 credits
- Advanced Modern Numerical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Biology 20 credits
- Advanced Stochastic Calculus and Applications to Finance 20 credits
Discovery modules
Throughout your degree you will benefit from the range of opportunities, expanding 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 next generation 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 five 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.
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.
Due to the competitive nature of this course, the Admissions team may take a variety of factors into account when assessing applications. Please read the admissions statement for further information.
Extended Project Qualification - Whilst we recognise the value, effort and enthusiasm applicants make in the Extended Project, we do not currently include this as part of our offer making. We do however encourage you to provide further information on your project in your personal statement and if invited, at interview.
GCSE: English Language at grade C (4) or above, or an appropriate English language qualification.
Other course specific tests:Lower offers may be made based on demonstrated interest and aptitude for the subject (typically AAB). Where Maths or Computing are required this must be at grade A.
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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.
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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.
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Cambridge Pre-U
D3, D3, D3 including Mathematics.
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International Baccalaureate
35 points overall, with 18 points at higher level to include 5 points in higher level Mathematics.
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Irish Highers (Leaving Certificate)
H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2, including Mathematics.
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
AA at Advanced Higher level, including Mathematics, and AABBB at Higher level.
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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 Schools Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
Were 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.
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.
Applicant 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: See fees section below
International: £23,500 (per year)
Undergraduate tuition fees for 2020 entry
For UK and non-UK EU full-time students starting in 2020, the fee for 2020/21 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 and non-UK EU undergraduate students are decided by Government and may vary if policy changes.
The UK government has confirmed that non-UK EU students starting in the 2020/21 academic year will have home fee status and be eligible for UK government student loans for the duration of their course.
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 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.
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.
Career opportunities
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
You’ll have access to our dedicated Employability team, located in our Employability Suite, who will provide you with specialist face-to-face support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and year-in-industry placements, as well as graduate positions.
You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, ongoing support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers. The team also works closely with the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.
Find out more about careers support and employability.
Study abroad and work placements
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 on the Study Abroad website.
With the help and support of our faculty Employability team, you can choose to undertake an 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.
Find out more about work placements.