Mathematics with Placement Year BSc

2024-25 entry
School of Mathematics and Statistics

Put your numerical skills into practice in the real world, and build up more experience for your CV. Our students have worked in finance roles at major corporations and applied their analysis skills to data science jobs in the civil service as part of their degree.

Key details

Explore this course:

    Course description

    Students in a maths lecture

    Advance your problem-solving skills, put them into practice in the real world and build unforgettable experience for your CV.

    Explore the field and test out possible career paths with this Mathematics with Placement Year BSc from Sheffield. This is a degree with so much flexibility, it’s yours to shape.

    Building on core topics in year one, you’ll go into your second year with a whole menu of optional modules – from differential equations, statistical modelling and computer simulations to the mechanics of motion in fluids and solids.

    Some module options include more project work. This gives you the chance to put your mathematics skills into practice in different contexts and scenarios that you might encounter when you start work after graduation.

    Your third year will be your placement year, where you can for example try out finance roles at major corporations, or apply your analysis skills to data science in the civil service. You’ll have plenty of support from your tutors all the way through, and you may come back with the offer of a job when you graduate.

    Back in Sheffield for your fourth year, you’ll have the skills, knowledge and experience to go in lots of different directions in mathematics. This final year is the perfect time to test what interests you the most – building on your placement experience to develop the first steps in your career.

    Why study this course?

    • Tailor your degree - wide range of flexible module options to allow you to specialise in the areas of mathematics and statistics which you care about.
    • Industry placement experience - spend a whole year in industry, gaining first-hand experience in applying mathematics and statistics in a real business situation.
    • Real-world problem solving - research unanswered questions, from the most abstract research in areas like algebraic geometry and number theory, to the calculations behind animal movements and black holes.
    • Everyone is welcome - there’s a place at Sheffield for everyone who enjoys mathematics. Find a warm welcome at our active student society (SUMS), regular maths challenges and a dedicated LGBT+ student group for maths students.
    • Career success - careers and employability skills are built into our maths degree programmes, and major employers like Goldman Sachs, Unilever, and the NHS hire our graduates to solve problems.
    </div> " class="video-embed-field-lazy">
    Second-year Maths student Amelia takes us through a busy day of lectures before heading to Netball practice to unwind

    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:

    Title: Mathematics with Placement Year BSc course structure
    UCAS code: GG11
    Years: 2023
    First year

    Core modules:

    Mathematics Core

    Mathematics Core covers topics which continue school mathematics and which are used throughout the degree programmes: calculus and linear algebra, developing the framework for higher-dimensional generalisation.  This material is central to many topics in subsequent courses.  At the same time, small-group tutorials with the Personal Tutor aim to develop core skills, such as mathematical literacy and communication, some employability skills and problem-solving skills.

    40 credits
    Foundations of Pure Mathematics

    The module aims to give an overview of basic constructions in pure mathematics; starting from the integers, we develop some theory of the integers, introducing theorems, proofs, and abstraction.  This leads to the idea of axioms and general algebraic structures, with groups treated as a principal example.  The process of constructing the real numbers from the rationals is also considered, as a preparation for “analysis”, the branch of mathematics where the properties of sequences of real numbers and functions of real numbers are considered.

    20 credits
    Mathematical modelling

    Mathematics is the language of science.  By framing a scientific question in mathematical language, it is possible to gain deep insight into the empirical world.  This module aims to give students an appreciation of this astonishing phenomenon.  It will introduce them to the concept of mathematical modelling via examples from throughout science, which may include biology, physics, environmental sciences, and more.  Along the way, a range of mathematical techniques will be learned that tend to appear in empirical applications.  These may include (but not necessarily be limited to) difference and differential equations, calculus, and linear algebra.

    20 credits
    Probability and Data Science

    Probability theory is branch of mathematics concerned with the study of chance phenomena. Data science involves the handling and analysis of data using a variety of tools: statistical inference, machine learning, and graphical methods. The first part of the module introduces probability theory, providing a foundation for further probability and statistics modules, and for the statistical inference methods taught here. Examples are presented from diverse areas, and case studies involving a variety of real data sets are discussed. Data science tools are implemented using the statistical computing language R.

    20 credits
    Mathematical Investigation Skills

    This module introduces topics which will be useful throughout students’ time as undergraduates and in employment. These skills fall into two categories: computer literacy and presentation skills.  One aim of this module is to develop programming skills within Python to perform mathematical investigations.  Students will also meet the typesetting package LaTeX, the web design language HTML, and Excel for spreadsheets.  These will be used for making investigations, and preparing reports and presentations into mathematical topics.

    20 credits

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    You'll learn through lectures, problems classes in small groups and research projects. Some modules also include programming classes.

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 online access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    Assessment

    You will be assessed in a variety of ways, depending on the modules you take. This can include quizzes, examinations, presentations, participation in tutorials, projects, coursework and other written work.

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAA
    including Maths

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    AAB, including A in Maths + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including A in Maths + B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    36, with 6 in Higher Level Maths (Analysis and Approaches)
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    D*DD in Engineering with Distinctions in all Maths units
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + A in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAAAB + A in Maths
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    A + AA, including Maths
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 39 at Distinction (to include Maths units) and 6 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • We will give your application additional consideration if you have passed the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP), STEP 2 or STEP 3, at grade 3 or above. We do not consider STEP results in place of a third A Level

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB
    including A in Maths

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    AAB, including A in Maths + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including A in Maths + B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    34, with 6 in Higher Level Maths (Analysis and Approaches)
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in Engineering with Distinctions in all Maths units
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + A in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAABB + A in Maths
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA, including Maths
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (to include Maths units) and 9 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • We will give your application additional consideration if you have passed the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP), STEP 2 or STEP 3, at grade 3 or above. We do not consider STEP results in place of a third A Level

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.

    Graduate careers

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    Strong mathematics skills open all kinds of doors for our graduates: from banking, insurance and pensions, to software development at tech companies and encryption services at security agencies. They also work for businesses with vast amounts of data to process and inform new products and services.

    Organisations that have hired Sheffield maths graduates include AstraZeneca, BAE Systems, Barclays, Bet365, Dell, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs, GSK, HSBC, IBM, Lloyds, PwC, Unilever, the Civil Service and the NHS. Lots of our students also go on to do PhDs at world top 100 universities.

    Your career in mathematics and statistics

    Sonia Nayyar in her graduation gown holding her degree certificate

    My degree has given me an excellent grounding in mathematical concepts I use every day

    Sonia Nayyar Mathematics BSc

    After graduating from Sheffield with a BSc in Mathematics, Sonia went on to work for a financial, actuarial and business consultancy, putting the analytic and logical thinking skills she learned during her degree to daily use.

    Matt sat at a desk in an office with lots of plants in the background

    How I'm using my maths skills to program software

    Matthew Jenkins Mathematics BSc

    After graduating, Matthew used the University Careers Service to help him find a job, and he now develops software in the marine navigation industry.

    A profile image of Rachael Batteson smiling in front of a yellow background

    I analyse the cost-effectiveness of new drugs, to see if they are viable to be accepted within the NHS, or other countries' health care systems

    Rachael Batteson BSc Mathematics

    Rachael works in health economics, using the analysis and problem solving skills she got from her maths degree to assess the viability of new drugs.

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    </div> " class="video-embed-field-lazy">
    Why study mathematics and statistics?

    When new students join the School of Mathematics and Statistics, we want them to feel part of a community. At the heart of this is the Sheffield University Mathematics Society, or SUMS, who organise activities throughout the academic year – from charity fundraisers to nights out. Our students also take part in pizza lectures, rocket engineering projects, international maths challenges, and an LGBT+ support group for maths students.

    Staff in the School of Mathematics and Statistics work on a wide range of topics, from the most abstract research in areas like algebraic geometry and number theory, to the calculations behind animal movements and black holes. They’ll guide you through the key concepts and techniques that every mathematician needs to understand and give you a huge range of optional modules to choose from.

    The department is based in the Hicks Building, which has classrooms, lecture theatres, computer rooms and social spaces for our students. It’s right next door to the Students' Union, and just down the road from the 24/7 library facilities at the Information Commons and the Diamond.

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    Why choose Sheffield?

    The University of Sheffield

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2023 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for teaching quality, Students' Union and clubs/societies
    StudentCrowd 2023 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report


    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    96 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent

    Research Excellence Framework 2021

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2024-2025

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    Put your numerical skills into practice in the real world, and build up more experience for your CV. Our students have worked in finance roles at major corporations and applied their analysis skills to data science jobs in the civil service as part of their degree.