BSc (Hons) Mathematics with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- G10N
- Entry Requirements
- AAB (specific subjects apply)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
If you’re fascinated by the complexity of mathematics, and you want to give your career a head start with real-world industry experience, this course is for you. Our four-year BSc Mathematics with a Placement Year degree is designed to provide a rigorous degree in mathematics whilst also allowing you to explore your career options with a placement in your third year.
Our course has a flexible format. You’ll begin by developing your existing mathematical knowledge, before moving onto more advanced subjects as the course progresses. In later years, our optional modules mean you can tailor your studies around your interests. You can also complement your studies with modules from other UEA Schools, such as environmental sciences, business, computing, physics, and accounting, giving you a breath of choice and opportunity.
You’ll spend your third on a full-time placement lasting nine to 14 months, where you’ll put theoretical work into professional practice, gaining a real advantage for when you graduate.
Our lecturers are enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Most of them are active researchers who conduct world-leading work which is incorporated into their teaching. You’ll benefit from a high academic-staff-to-student ratio, ensuring that you graduate with a deep understanding of mathematics, complementing the valuable workplace experience from your placement year.
Mathematics is a fundamental language of science, technology, and finance, and our graduates find themselves with many versatile and rewarding career options.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
You’ll spend the third year of your four years of study on a placement consisting of nine to fourteen months of full-time employment. It’ll be up to you to source and secure your placement, but we’ll be here to support you and help you connect with employers.
During this year, you’ll be supported by a placement supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your placement supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it’s progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers. If you’re unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you’ll have the option to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a Placement Year.
Accreditations
This programme is accredited to meet the educational requirements of the Chartered Mathematician designation awarded by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications. For further information, please see the IMA University Degree Course Accreditation web page.
Study and Modules
Structure
The first year will develop your existing knowledge in calculus and other topics which you may have covered at A level, such as mechanics and probability. The modules you’ll study will encourage you to develop ways of tackling unfamiliar problems, while also providing an opportunity for group working.
Other modules will introduce important new concepts and ideas, which you’ll use in the following years of your degree. In addition, you’ll be introduced to the mathematical software that you’re going to use throughout your degree.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
New material will usually be delivered through lectures. The lectures are complemented by online notes, workshops and tutorials. In tutorials, you’ll discuss mathematical problems with a lecturer and a small group of other students. They’re a great way to get to know your fellow students and one of your lecturers.
In your first year, you’ll have around 15 hours of timetabled classes per week: approximately 10 hours of lectures, four hours of workshops or computer lab classes, and one tutorial.
Assessment
Assessment methods vary by module, but usually involve a mix of coursework and examinations. In Year 1, modules typically combine 40% coursework and 60% examination. Coursework usually involves problem sheets of mathematical questions, but may also include project work, programming assignments, and/or other tasks.
Structure
As you progress into your second year, you’ll continue to learn essential mathematical principles through compulsory modules, while also taking a selection of optional modules to suit your personal interests.
The optional modules on offer change each year but include options to study further topics in applied mathematics, pure mathematics, statistics, physics, finance, or environmental science.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
New material will usually be delivered through lectures. The lectures are complemented by online notes and workshops, where you’ll focus on working through examples, either individually or in small groups.
In your second year, you’ll have around 10 hours of lectures and three hours of workshops each week.
Assessment
As in year 1, assessment methods depend on the module, but typically involve both coursework and examinations. In Year 2, modules usually combine 20% coursework and 80% examination. Coursework tends to involve problem sheets of mathematical questions, but may also include project work, programming assignments, and/or other tasks.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year working in a professional environment on your placement.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
There are no lecture courses to study on your placement year, though you’ll still remain in contact with UEA, and receive support from the Placement Year Coordinator.
Assessment
The placement year does not count for marks towards your degree, but you’re required to submit a number of short reports on your progress throughout the year.
Structure
There are no compulsory modules in the final year. Instead, we offer a wide choice of optional modules covering topics in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and statistics. As in your second year, you’ll also be able to study mathematics-related subjects from another School within UEA.
You’ll also have the option to undertake an undergraduate mathematics project, which will give you a chance to immerse yourself in a mathematical topic that excites you.
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 60, Max Credits: 100)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
The specialist modules offered in your final year of study will be lectured by leading mathematicians in their fields. As well as teaching, our academics are actively involved in research collaborations with colleagues throughout the world, examples from which will be used to illustrate lectures and workshops.
The formal contact hours will be slightly less than in the second year, reflecting your increased independence, and there will be increased emphasis on using the office hours of your lecturers for individual feedback and guidance. Depending on module choices, you’ll probably have between about eight and 12 hours of lectures and workshops each week.
Assessment
Similar to your previous years of study, in year 4 assessment methods vary by module, but usually involve a mix of coursework and examinations. In Year 4, modules tend to combine 20% coursework and 80% examination. Coursework usually involves problem sheets of mathematical questions, but may also include project work, programming assignments, and/or other tasks. The optional project module is assessed by the submission of a 20-page written report and the delivery of a short oral presentation.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including grade A in Mathematics.
If Further Mathematics being taken: ABB including grade A in Mathematics and B in Further Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD plus grade A in A level Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Extended Diploma: DDD plus grade A in A level Mathematics.
Diploma: DD plus grade A in A level Mathematics.
Extended Certificate: D plus grade AB at A level including Mathematics grade A.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Mathematics at Distinction.
Interview required.T levels
Not accepted
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - https://www.uea.ac.uk/course/undergraduate/bsc-mathematics-with-a-foundation-year
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL6 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches).
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2 including Mathematics and 2 subjects at H3.
Scottish Highers
AAABB. Only accepted in combination with Scottish Advanced Highers Grade B in Mathematics.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC including grade B in Mathematics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
AAB including grade A in Mathematics.
If Further Mathematics being taken: ABB including grade A in Mathematics and B in Further Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL6 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches).
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You’re eligible for reduced fees during your placement year. Further details are available on the UEA Tuition Fees web pages.
There may be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your placement year, which will vary depending on location.
There are no other additional course fees or related costs for our mathematics degrees. Students may wish to consult textbooks, but these can be accessed through our Library, so you don’t need to purchase your own copies. A laptop or tablet computer may be useful, but there are ample computing facilities available on campus for you to use.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
There are many professions that are traditionally associated with mathematics, such as accountancy, banking and finance, statistics and data analysis, and secondary or higher education.
However, there are many others in which logical thought and problem-solving are important. These include information technology, engineering, logistics and distribution, central or local government, as well as other business areas. Many of our graduates also choose to continue their studies by going on to a higher degree.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Data scientist
- Pension modeler / financial broker
- Mathematical modeller in industry
- Secondary school teacher
- Accountant
- Researcher
Discover more on our Mathematics Careers web page.