Program Overview

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Mathematics and Philosophy BSc

The University of Sheffield offers a BSc Mathematics and Philosophy course that combines abstract and logical thinking to approach challenges from new perspectives. This three-year course will equip students with advanced problem-solving skills, enabling them to tackle complex problems in various contexts.

Course Description

The course is designed to give students a deep understanding of mathematical and philosophical concepts. In the first two years, students will focus on fundamental topics, covering essential subjects that will prepare them to tackle increasingly complex problems. They will also have the opportunity to choose from a range of optional mathematics and philosophy modules.

In the third year, students will put their skills into practice through project work, applying their knowledge to different contexts and scenarios. They will continue to tailor their degree to their interests through more in-depth optional modules, exploring topics such as financial mathematics, machine learning, ethics, and phenomenology.

Modules

The course structure includes a range of core and optional modules. In the first year, core modules include:

• Introduction to University Mathematics
• Foundations of Pure Mathematics
• Geometry, Matrices and Multivariate Calculus
• Writing Philosophy
• Reason and Argument

Optional modules in the first year include:

• Mathematical Investigation Skills
• Mathematical modelling
• Probability and Data Science
• Mind and World
• Religion, Reason and Reality
• Bodies, Sex and Desires
• Ethics and Society
• Science, Medicine and Society
• Death and Killing
• History of Philosophy

In the second year, example core modules include:

• Formal Logic
• Knowing and Being
• Linear Algebra and Advanced Calculus
• Analysis

Optional modules in the second year include:

• Stochastic modelling
• Differential equations
• The philosophy of AI and robotics
• Political philosophy

In the third year, example core modules include:

• Project and Skills

Optional modules in the third year include:

• Financial mathematics and time series
• Machine learning
• Ethics and belief
• Phenomenology

Learning and Assessment

To ensure students acquire the required skills and knowledge, the course features a range of learning methods, including lectures, small group tutorials, problems classes, and research projects. Some mathematics modules also involve programming classes.

Assessment methods vary depending on the modules taken and may include quizzes, examinations, presentations, participation in tutorials, projects, coursework, and other written work.

Entry Requirements

The standard A Level entry requirements for this course are AAB, including A in Maths. Alternative qualifications, such as International Baccalaureate, BTEC Extended Diploma, and Access to HE Diploma, are also accepted.

Graduate Careers

Graduates with a degree in mathematics and philosophy from the University of Sheffield have a wide range of career options. Employers value the skills and knowledge acquired through this course, including the ability to analyze and state a case clearly, evaluate arguments, and reach a solution in a clear, precise, and logical way.

Department

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences and the School of History, Philosophy and Digital Humanities are the departments responsible for this course. Both schools have a strong research focus and offer a supportive and inclusive community for students.

University Rankings

The University of Sheffield is a world top-100 university, ranked 92nd in the QS World University Rankings 2026. It is also ranked as the number one university in the Russell Group for student experience, based on aggregate responses in the National Student Survey 2025.

Student Profiles

The university offers a range of student profiles, showcasing the experiences of students and graduates from the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the course are £9,535 for home students and £26,820 for overseas students. The university offers a range of funding options, including scholarships and bursaries, to support students with their studies.

Placements and Study Abroad

Students have the opportunity to add an optional placement year to their course, converting the three-year course to a four-year Degree with Placement Year. The university also offers study abroad opportunities, allowing students to spend time at one of its partner universities around the world.

Extra Information

The university provides a range of support services for students, including academic support, careers advice, and mental health support. The Students' Union is also an important part of university life, offering a range of activities, events, and services for students.