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BSc|Undergraduate

Mathematics and Computer Science

Entry year
Academic Year 2025/26
Entry requirements
AAB/A*BB
Duration
3 years (Full-time)
UCAS code
GG41

Mathematics is the universal language of science while computer science is the study of the hardware and algorithms that are used in modern computer systems. Since many of the early pioneers of computer science, for instance Alan Turing, were mathematicians it is not surprising that these two subjects are closely related. This is a three-year joint degree programme, in conjunction with the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, that combines the study of the two subjects at each level.

In 2020, more than 90% of 1st and 2nd year Maths students expressed overall satisfaction with their course HEFCE National Student Survey.

Mathematics and Computer Science highlights

Global Opportunities

We participate in the IAESTE and Turing student exchange programmes, which enable students to obtain work experience in companies and universities throughout the world.

Industry Links

All students in the school have the option to include a year in industry as part of their studies. This is a fantastic opportunity to see mathematics and computer science at work in the real world, and to enhance your career prospects at the same time. Several local financial services companies (including Clarus FT, Effex Capital and AquaQ Analytics) were founded by our graduates.

World Class Facilities

A new Teaching Centre for Mathematics and Physics opened in September 2016. This provides a dedicated space for teaching within the School. Facilities for mathematics include new lecture and group-study rooms, a new student social area and state-of-the-art computer facilities. Computer Science teaching takes place in the iconic Bernard Crossland building on the Malone Road, just a short walk from the Mathematics department. The building was recently refurbished at a cost of £14M, and houses standard computer and lecture rooms as well as laboratories and break-out spaces.

Internationally Renowned Experts

The School of Mathematics and Physics is a large school with staff from 13 countries, including UK, US, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Bulgaria, Russia, Argentina, Cuba, Germany, China, Greece, Kenya, Niger, The Netherlands and Romania. Many of our staff are leading international experts in their fields of mathematical research. In the 2021 REF peer-review exercise, Mathematics Research had the 11th highest impact in the UK.

Thus the ethos of the School is one of excellence in research informing excellence in teaching.

Student Experience

Many students find the transition from school to university somewhat daunting. In order to help with this transition, Mathematics students have introduced a Peer Mentoring scheme that is generally regarded as one of the most effective in the University. As well as providing a forum for first year students to obtain support, it also provides mentors with transferable skills which will increase graduate employment opportunities.

Further Study Opportunities

Placement Year
Students can take an optional placement year between years 2/3 of their course. Completion of an approved placement will be acknowledged in your final degree certificate with the addition of the words "with placement year".

Student Experience

School has the 3rd highest postgraduate research student satisfaction in the university.

Career Development

87% of Maths students are in graduate employment or further study 15 months after graduation (11th in the UK)

Student Testimonials

Course Structure

Course content

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

Stage 1

At Stage 1, students must take six compulsory modules.

Stage 2

At Stage 2, students must take two compulsory modules plus another four optional modules approved by an advisor of studies.

Stage 3

At Stage 3, students must take modules totally 120 units as approved by an advisor of studies.

People teaching you

Associate Director of Education for Mathematics

School of Maths and Physics
Dr Huettemann is a Senior Lecturer in Mathematics with research interests in homological algebra, graded algebra and K-theory.

Contact Teaching Hours

Personal Study

21 (hours maximum)
21 hours studying and revising in your own time each week, including some guided study using handouts, online activities, etc.

Small Group Teaching/Personal Tutorial

1 (hours maximum)
1 hour of tutorials (or later, project supervision) each week.

Large Group Teaching

10 (hours maximum)
10 hours of lectures.

Medium Group Teaching

4 (hours maximum)
4 hours of practical classes, workshops or seminars each week.

Learning and Teaching

At Queen’s, we aim to deliver a high quality learning environment that embeds intellectual curiosity, innovation and best practice in learning, teaching and student support to enable students to achieve their full academic potential.

On the BSc in Mathematics and Computer Science we do this by providing a range of learning experiences which enable our students to engage with subject experts, develop attributes and perspectives that will equip them for life and work in a global society and make use of innovative technologies and a world class library that enhances their development as independent, lifelong learners. Examples of the opportunities provided for learning on this course are:

  • Computer based modules

    These provide students with the opportunity to develop technical skills and apply theoretical principles to real-life or practical contexts. These span aspects of programming, computational tools and fundamental mathematical and algorithmic ideas.

  • E-learning technologies

    Information associated with lectures and assignments is often communicated via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) called Canvas. A range of e-learning experiences are also embedded in the degree programme through the use of, for example, interactive support materials and web-based learning activities.

  • Lectures

    These introduce basic information about new topics as a starting point for further self-directed private study/reading. Lectures also provide opportunities to ask questions, gain some feedback and advice on assessments (normally delivered in large groups to all year group peers).

  • Personal Tutor

    Undergraduates are allocated a Personal Tutor during Level 1 and Level 2 who meets with them on several occasions during the year to support their academic development.

  • Self-directed study

    This is an essential part of life as a Queen’s student when important private reading, engagement with e-learning resources, reflection on feedback to date and assignment research and preparation work is carried out.

  • Supervised projects

    In final year, students will be expected to carry out a significant piece of research on a topic or practical methodology that they have chosen. Students will receive support from a supervisor who will guide them in terms of how to carry out research and who will provide feedback on at least 2 occasions during the write up stage.

  • Tutorials

    Significant amounts of teaching are carried out in small groups (typically 10-20 students). These provide an opportunity for students to engage with academic staff who have specialist knowledge of the topic, to ask questions of them and to assess their own progress and understanding with the support of peers.

Assessment

The way in which students are assessed will vary according to the learning objectives of each module. Details of how each module is assessed are shown in the Student Handbook which is available online via the school website.

  • Most modules are assessed through a combination of coursework and end of year examinations.
  • Some modules (eg, final year Honours Project module) are assessed solely through project work or written assignments.
  • Computer Based Assessment

    Some modules use online quizzes/tests as part of the module assessment. This tests basic knowledge, understanding and problem solving.

Feedback

As students progress through their course at Queen’s they will receive general and specific feedback about their work from a variety of sources including lecturers, module co-ordinators, placement supervisors, personal tutors, advisers of study and your peers. University students are expected to engage with reflective practice and to use this approach to improve the quality of their work. Feedback may be provided in a variety of forms including:

  • Feedback provided via formal written comments and marks relating to work that students, as individuals or as part of a group, have submitted.
  • Face to face comment. This may include occasions when students make use of the lecturers’ advertised “office hours” to help address a specific query.
  • Placement employer comments or references.
  • Online or emailed comment
  • General comments or question and answer opportunities at the end of a lecture, seminar or tutorial.
  • Pre-submission advice regarding the standards you should aim for and common pitfalls to avoid. In some instances, this may be provided in the form of model answers or exemplars which students can review in their own time.
  • Feedback and outcomes from practical classes.
  • Comment and guidance provided by staff from specialist support services such as, Careers, Employability and Skills or the Learning Development Service.
  • Once students have reviewed their feedback, they are encouraged to identify and implement further improvements to the quality of their work.

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Modules

Modules

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2023/24). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.

  • Year 1

    Core Modules

  • Year 2

    Core Modules

    Linear Algebra (20 credits)

    Optional Modules

    Classical Mechanics (20 credits)
    Analysis (20 credits)
    Metric Spaces (20 credits)
    Group Theory (20 credits)
  • Year 3

    Core Modules

    Optional Modules

    Functional Analysis (20 credits)
    Formal Methods (20 credits)
    Numerical Analysis (20 credits)
    Quantum Fields (20 credits)
    Deep Learning (20 credits)
    Dynamical Systems (20 credits)
    Quantum Theory (20 credits)
    Rings and Modules (20 credits)
    Classical Fields (20 credits)

Entrance requirements

A level requirements

A (Mathematics) AB
OR
A* (Mathematics) BB

A maximum of one BTEC/OCR Single Award or AQA Extended Certificate will be accepted as part of an applicant's portfolio of qualifications with a Distinction* being equated to a grade A at A-level and a Distinction being equated to a grade B at A-level.

Irish leaving certificate requirements

H2H3H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H2 in Mathematics

Access Course

Successful completion of Access Course with a minimum of 80% in each Level 3 module. Must be relevant Access Course with substantial Mathematics modules (eg: Mathematics and Computing).

International Baccalaureate Diploma

34 points overall including 6 (Mathematics) 6 5 at Higher Level. If not offered at Higher Level/GCSE then Standard Level grade 4 in English would be accepted.

Graduate

A minimum of a 2:2 Honours Degree, provided any subject requirement is also met.

Note

All applicants must have GCSE English Language grade C/4 or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.

How we choose our students

Applications are dealt with centrally by the Admissions and Access Service rather than by the School of Mathematics and Physics. Once your on-line form has been processed by UCAS and forwarded to Queen's, an acknowledgement is normally sent within two weeks of its receipt at the University.

Selection is on the basis of the information provided on your UCAS form. Decisions are made on an ongoing basis and will be notified to you via UCAS.

For entry last year, applicants for programmes in the School of Mathematics and Physics offering A-level/BTEC Level 3 qualifications must have had, or been able to achieve, a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade C/4 or better (to include English Language and Mathematics), though this profile may change from year to year depending on the demand for places. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of GCSE and/or A-level subjects can be fulfilled.

Offers are normally made on the basis of three A-levels. The offer for repeat candidates may be one grade higher than for first time applicants. Grades may be held from the previous year.

Applicants offering two A-levels and one BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/National Extended Certificate (or equivalent qualification), or one A-level and a BTEC Diploma/National Diploma (or equivalent qualification) will also be considered. Offers will be made in terms of the overall BTEC grade(s) awarded. Please note that a maximum of one BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/National Extended Certificate (or equivalent) will be counted as part of an applicant’s portfolio of qualifications. The normal GCSE profile will be expected.

For applicants offering the Irish Leaving Certificate, please note that performance at Irish Junior Certificate (IJC) is taken into account. For last year’s entry, applicants for this degree must have had a minimum of five IJC grades at C/Merit. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of Leaving Certificate subjects can be satisfied.

Applicants offering other qualifications will also be considered. The same GCSE (or equivalent) profile is usually expected of those candidates offering other qualifications.

The information provided in the personal statement section and the academic reference together with predicted grades are noted but, in the case of degree courses in the School of Mathematics and Physics, these are not the final deciding factors in whether or not a conditional offer can be made. However, they may be reconsidered in a tie break situation in August.

A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking would not normally be considered as part of a three A-level offer and, although they may be excluded where an applicant is taking four A-level subjects, the grade achieved could be taken into account if necessary in August/September.

Applicants are not normally asked to attend for interview.

If you are made an offer then you may be invited to a Faculty/School Visit Day, which is usually held in the second semester. This will allow you the opportunity to visit the University and to find out more about the degree programme of your choice and the facilities on offer. It also gives you a flavour of the academic and social life at Queen's.

If you cannot find the information you need here, please contact the University Admissions and Access Service (admissions@qub.ac.uk), giving full details of your qualifications and educational background.

International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.

English Language Requirements

An IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each test component or an equivalent acceptable qualification, details of which are available at: http://go.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs

If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

  • Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
  • Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.

International Students - Foundation and International Year One Programmes

INTO Queen's offers a range of academic and English language programmes to help prepare international students for undergraduate study at Queen's University. You will learn from experienced teachers in a dedicated international study centre on campus, and will have full access to the University's world-class facilities.

These programmes are designed for international students who do not meet the required academic and English language requirements for direct entry.

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Careers

Career Prospects

Introduction

Studying for a Mathematics and Computer Science degree at Queen’s will assist students in developing the core skills and employment-related experiences that are valued by employers, professional organisations and academic institutions. Graduates from this degree at Queen’s are well regarded by many employers (local, national and international) and over half of all graduate jobs are now open to graduates of any discipline, including mathematics.

According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, 5 years after graduation, Maths graduates earn 20 per cent more on average than other graduates (IFS 2018) and are the 3rd highest earners compared to all other subjects.

Although the many of our graduates are interested in pursuing careers in teaching, banking and finance, significant numbers develop careers in a wide range of other sectors. The following is a list of the major career sectors which have attracted our graduates in recent years:

Management Consultancy
Export Marketing (NI Programme)
Fast Stream Civil Service
Varied graduate programmes (Times Top 100 Graduate Recruiters/AGR, Association of Graduate Recruiters UK)

In line with Queen's membership to the Russell group (UK research-intensive universities), the School offers a variety of PhD programmes at the cutting-edge of internationally leading research.

Employment after the Course

The School has links with over 500 IT companies both here and abroad. We benefit from the fact that there are more software companies located in N Ireland than any other part of the UK, outside of London. This offers benefits on many levels for our students, from industrial input to the content of our courses, through to year long and summer placements,as well as activities such as competitions organised by the companies etc.

The Prospects website provides further information regarding the types of jobs that attract Computer Science Graduates.

Further study is also an option open to Computer Science graduates. Students can choose from a wide range of Masters programmes as well as a comprehensive list of research topics, see the School website www.qub.ac.uk/eeecs for more information.

Northern Ireland has an excellent international reputation for the quality and supply of its software engineers. Indeed many companies, both national and international, have opted for Northern Ireland as a base for their computing divisions in recognition of the high quality of graduates produced by the local universities.

Given this situation, it is not surprising that our graduates have had unparalleled job opportunities over the years, both locally and internationally. Because of the achievements of Queen's graduates already in the software engineering profession, a Computer Science degree from Queen's is a highly respected qualification. A good Honours degree in Computer Science from Queen's is of great benefit in seeking the best jobs.

Employers, from large multinational firms to small local organisations, actively target our students, recognising that Queen's Computer Science graduates are equipped with the skills they need. On graduating the majority of graduates take up posts associated with software design and implementation. Opportunities exist in fields as diverse as finance, games, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, research, consumer products, and public services - virtually all areas of business. Some of the employers include BT, Liberty IT, Kainos, Asidua, Autonomy, Accenture, Citi, NYSE

Statistics highlight that over 90% of recent graduates were pursuing their chosen pathway within six months of graduation. As the IT market has recovered, current industry analysis indicates that there is a shortage of IT graduates and this trend is forecast to continue. The types of career open to Computer Science graduates include: Software Engineer; Systems Analyst; Web Designer; Games Developer; Systems Developer; IT Consultant; Project Manager.

What employers say

Prizes and Awards

Top performing students are eligible for a number of prizes within the School.

Degree Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills

In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Degree Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

Tuition Fees

Northern Ireland (NI) 1 £4,750
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 £4,750
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 £9,250
EU Other 3 £20,800
International £20,800

1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.

2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.

3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.

The tuition fees quoted above are for the 2024/25 academic year and are a guide only. In addition, all tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase in each year of the course. Fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Tuition fee rates are calculated based on a student’s tuition fee status and generally increase annually by inflation. How tuition fees are determined is set out in the Student Finance Framework.

Additional course costs

All essential software will be provided by the University, for use on University facilities, however for some software, students may choose to buy a version for home use.

All Students

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.

Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.

If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.

Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.

There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

How do I fund my study?

There are different tuition fee and student financial support arrangements for students from Northern Ireland, those from England, Scotland and Wales (Great Britain), and those from the rest of the European Union.

Information on funding options and financial assistance for undergraduate students is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/Fees-and-scholarships/.

Scholarships

Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students. Information on scholarships available.

International Scholarships

Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships.

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Apply

How to Apply

Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at: www.ucas.com/students.

When to Apply

UCAS will start processing applications for entry in autumn 2025 from early September 2024.

The advisory closing date for the receipt of applications for entry in 2025 is still to be confirmed by UCAS but is normally in late January (18:00). This is the 'equal consideration' deadline for this course.

Applications from UK and EU (Republic of Ireland) students after this date are, in practice, considered by Queen’s for entry to this course throughout the remainder of the application cycle (30 June 2025) subject to the availability of places. If you apply for 2025 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.

Applications from International and EU (Other) students are normally considered by Queen's for entry to this course until 30 June 2025. If you apply for 2025 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as is consistent with having made a careful and considered choice of institutions and courses.

The Institution code name for Queen's is QBELF and the institution code is Q75.

Further information on applying to study at Queen's is available at: www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/How-to-apply/

Apply via UCAS

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study. Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.

Additional Information for International (non-EU) Students

  1. Applying through UCAS
    Most students make their applications through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) for full-time undergraduate degree programmes at Queen's. The UCAS application deadline for international students is 30 June 2025.
  2. Applying direct
    The Direct Entry Application form is to be used by international applicants who wish to apply directly, and only, to Queen's or who have been asked to provide information in advance of submitting a formal UCAS application. Find out more.
  3. Applying through agents and partners
    The University’s in-country representatives can assist you to submit a UCAS application or a direct application. Please consult the Agent List to find an agent in your country who will help you with your application to Queen’s University.

Download Undergraduate Prospectus