Program Overview

Computer Science and Mathematics

The MSci Computer Science and Mathematics degree is meticulously crafted to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to thrive in the constantly changing data-driven workplace.

Start Dates

• September 2026
• September 2025

Degree Type

MSci

Course Length

4 years full-time

Location

Durham City

UCAS Code

G425

Typical Offers

• A Level: A*AA
• BTEC: D*DD
• International Baccalaureate: 38

Course Details

The MSci Computer Science and Mathematics degree is designed to provide students with the essential foundation in computer science and mathematics. The first two years follow the same course structure as the BSc, with an equal balance of computer science and mathematics. From the third year, the MSci introduces a wider range of modules and an advanced project in the final year.

Year 1 Modules

Core Modules:

• Computational Thinking: Explores the breadth of computer science and the ways in which the different topics are linked.
• Algorithms and Data Structures: Introduces the theory and practice of problem-solving in computing through the development of algorithms and their associated data structures.
• Calculus: Builds on ideas of differentiation and integration in A-level mathematics.
• Linear Algebra: Presents mathematical ideas, techniques in linear algebra, and develops the geometric intuition and familiarity with vector methods.
• Probability: Introduces mathematical ideas on probability in preparation for more demanding material later in the course.
• Statistics: Introduces frequentist and Bayesian approaches and demonstrates the relevance of these principles and procedures using real problems.

Optional Modules:

• Computer Systems
• Programming

Year 2 Modules

Optional Modules:

• Theory of Computation
• Programming Paradigms
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Probability
• Statistical Modelling
• Statistical Inference
• Data Science and Statistical Computing
• Algebra

Year 3 Modules

Core Modules:

• Project Preparation: You will work on essential research skills, including researching a topic, writing, presenting, and begin preparation for the final-year Advanced Project in an area of your choice.

Optional Modules:

• 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

Year 4 Modules

Core Modules:

• Either Advanced Computer Science Project or Mathematics Project: Your final-year project is a detailed and critical examination of a relevant area of computer science, mathematics, or statistics.

Optional Modules:

• Advanced Algorithms
• Applied Cryptography
• Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies
• Coding and Information Theory
• Learning Analytics
• Natural Language Processing
• Quantum Computing
• Randomised Algorithms and Probabilistic Methods
• Representation Theory
• Topics in Combinatorics
• High-Dimensional Statistics
• Uncertainty Quantification
• Nonparametric Statistics
• Deep Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Additional Pathways

Students can apply to be transferred onto either the with Year Abroad or with Placement pathway. Places on these pathways are in high demand, and if you are chosen, your studies will extend from three years to four or four to five, depending on the course.

Learning

Learning is centred in a modern purpose-built space containing lecture and seminar rooms, open-plan workspace, breakout areas, labs, and computer rooms.

Assessment

Some modules are assessed entirely through coursework, while others are assessed by examination, and others by a combination of methods.

Entry Requirements

• A Level: AAA, including either AA in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level or A* in Mathematics and A at AS Further Mathematics for students unable to take A Level Further Mathematics.
• BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma: DDD and either AA 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 score: 38 points overall, including 7 in Higher Level Mathematics (maths analysis & approaches) and 66 in two other Higher Level subjects.

Fees and Funding

The fees for this academic year have not been confirmed yet.

Career Opportunities

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.

Department Information

The Natural Sciences department offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including the MSci Computer Science and Mathematics degree.

Rankings

• 3rd in The Times and Sunday Times University Guide 2025

Facilities

You will have access to a wide range of facilities across multiple departments. Most departments are close to the historic centre of Durham, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.