About this course
We’re here to support you as you set out on your journey. We’ll build your mathematics and science skills and knowledge so you’re ready for the challenge of moving on to BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Physics in your second year.
You’ll get plenty of opportunities to apply your knowledge by participating in a series of projects on your own and in a group. This develops your problem-solving and creative thinking skills – essential for mathematics and physics graduates.
Don’t worry if you change your mind about studying mathematics and physics. You’ll have a solid foundation to switch to one of our other mathematics courses.
Our Mathematics and Physics degrees are current and relevant to the needs of the business. Our close links with the industry mean that, if you wish, you’ll have the opportunity to take up job placements with some of the world’s leading companies.
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Every year we offer a number of short research scholarships to one of our research teams. This is a great opportunity for you to further your interests and contribute to the academic activities of the mathematics department. -
97% of our mathematics students were in work or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21). -
Top 20 in the UK for teaching quality in Physics and Mathematics (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)
What you’ll study
In the modern world, many new employment opportunities demand multi-skilled graduates. Those with mathematical and physics skills are among the most sought-after in fields including industrial research and development, computing, business, finance and teaching.
You’ll use our outstanding laboratory facilities. Last year we spent £250,000 on new equipment for our teaching laboratories, including telescopes, CCD cameras, ultrasound scanners, magnetic resonance spectrometers, high-speed cameras, thermal imaging equipment and a high-resolution 3D printer.
How will I learn?
We will provide lectures, practical laboratory sessions, seminars and two to four surgery sessions each week. The rest of your time is given to self-guided independent study (reading textbooks, lecture notes and exercises)..
Placement Year
An optional placement year is available, this will typically take place after Year Three, and you will return to campus for your final year in Year Five.
Study abroad opportunities
Get ready to embark on an adventure with our study abroad programs at partner universities or by getting a work placement overseas. Both opportunities will boost your employability, build lifelong friendships, and allow you to experience the world in a whole new way.
Introductory Mathematics (20 credit card)
This module introduces important mathematical ideas, including Algebraic rearrangement, Trigonometry, Vectors, Descriptive Statistics, Integration and Differentiation. You’ll gain an understanding of ideas that form the basis of later, more specialised developments, and you’ll be able to solve simple but realistic mathematical problems.
Intermediate Mathematics (20 cp)
This module aims to link Introductory Mathematics and degree-level Mathematics. You’ll cover more complex topics such as the chain rule and integration by parts, the generalisation of vectors to matrices, the approximation of numerical series, logic and probability, complex numbers and mathematical proof.
Foundation Science (20 cp)
In this module, you’ll cover physics and chemistry topics, including exchange, transport and conservation of energy and inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. This module aims to provide a sound scientific foundation for studying engineering or mathematics at the undergraduate degree level.
Foundation Engineering (20 cp)
This module includes basic electrical, electronic and mechanical engineering. Mechanics considers the consequences of applying forces to physical bodies; the electrical and electronics part of the module focuses on the scientific principles relevant to circuit theory, analogue electronics and components. Laboratory-based sessions will allow you to gain practical knowledge and experience.
Practical and Professional Skills (20 cp)
This module aims to provide a link between the theoretical modules in the course and their practical implementation. The professional skills aspect will help you interpret coursework requirements, exam and revision techniques, note-taking and referencing. The practical sessions will cover various topics that require you to use the scientific principles and mathematical techniques you’re learning in the other modules of the course.
Calculus (20 credit points)
In this module you’ll study methods of differentiation and integration, from the fundamental principles, to integrating and differentiating complicated functions. Ordinary differential equations will be looked at and in combination with material you’ll learn how to solve these new types of equations.
Data Analysis (20 cp)
This gives you an introduction to important statistical ideas and their application using modern software. You will explore data analysis, probability, statistical inference and statistical modelling.
Introduction to Linear Algebra and Computation (20 credit points)
Studying Linear Algebra gives you a great base knowledge you’ll use in many modules during your course. Concepts include complex numbers, vectors and matrices. Using mathematical software packages you’ll focus on computational and numerical methods that can be used to find approximate solutions to problems that cannot be solved analytically.
Classical and Quantum Mechanics (20 cp)
You’ll develop an understanding of how force, motion, and energy are related, from classical to quantum mechanics. The module reinforces your ability to use mathematical techniques to model physical situations. Your understanding is developed through laboratory experiments and note taking.
Properties of Matter (20 cp)
Introducing the basic structure and model of both stable and unstable nucleus, this module explores radioactive decay and modern applications of ionising radiation. You’ll explore beyond elementary nuclear physics to atomic bonding and some fundamental bulk properties of matter.
Instrumentation and Physics Skills (20 cp)
Learn the skills needed to become a professional physicist in the module. You’ll develop good laboratory practices such as lab notebook keeping, organisation and safety alongside learning how to interpret and report your findings.
Differential Equations (20 cp)
Extend your knowledge of calculus, differential equations and linear algebra, and gain an introduction to difference equations, the Eigen problem and transform methods.
Advanced Calculus (20 cp)
Broaden your knowledge, understanding and skills in advanced higher calculus to topics including Fourier series, partial differential equations and complex analysis.
Mathematical Enterprise (20 cp)
In this module you’ll work in small teams to develop a plan for a new business or enterprise, using your mathematical skills to showcase the viability of your venture. This module is run in conjunction with Nottingham's Creative Quarter and you’ll work with several local businesses to create business plans.
Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics (20 cp)
Introducing the principles and applications of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, this module includes exploring heat transfer processes, thermal properties of materials, and the behaviour of gases, liquids and solids.
Fundamental Forces (20 cp)
Explore the fundamental forces of nature: gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong and weak nuclear forces. You’ll develop your understanding and appreciation of the principles and applications of fundamental forces and of the relationships between them. Study concepts such as Kepler's Laws, Newtonian gravitation and Einstein’s special theory of relativity.
The Quantum World (20 cp)
In this module you will study modern quantum mechanics. Through the application of the 1-D and 3-D Schrödinger equation you’ll learn how to model problems and scenarios.
Core modules
Project and Professional Skills (40 cp)
Immerse yourself in a substantial mathematics project with dedicated support and supervision. The project will showcase your skills, knowledge, and problem-solving abilities. You’ll also take part in activities to explore your career options after graduation.
Partial Differential Equations (20 cp)
Partial differential equations are an essential topic in both pure and applied mathematics. This topic builds on the introduction given in Advanced Calculus to consider partial linear equations in non-trivial domains and to introduce methods of analysing nonlinear first-order partial differential equations.
Applied Fluid Dynamics (20 cp)
Study both the theoretical topics and applying your learning to industry and research. You’ll be covering topics such as momentum transport, Newtonian and non-Newtonian flow and Bernoilli’s equation.
Optional modules - choose one:
Differential and Integral Equations (20 cp)
Apply your knowledge of advanced calculus and differential equations to solve differential and integral equations.
Numerical Analysis and Dynamical Systems (20 cp)
Develop your knowledge of numerical methods with an emphasis on numerical optimisation techniques, advanced methods for the numerical solution of ordinary differential equations and applying methods to non-linear problems.
Linear Systems (20 cp)
You will continue your previous studies in linear algebra and differential and difference equations.
Optional modules - choose one:
Solid State Physics (20 cp)
Discover the macroscopic properties of matter, focusing on solid state and semiconductor physics. You’ll begin with a review of statistical mechanics to progresses and look at topics such as diffraction patterns, magnetism and waves.
Cosmology and General Relativity (20 cp)
Discover the theories surrounding cosmology and general relativity and the mathematical tools needed to understand them. Topics study include: Geometry of the universe and Friedmann models, standard big bang cosmology, special relativity and Geodesics and the Schwarzschild metric.
We regularly review and update our course content based on student and employer feedback, ensuring that all of our courses remain current and relevant. This may result in changes to module content or module availability in future years.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
How you're taught
You’ll learn through a mix of:
- lectures - covering the key theories
- seminars - smaller-group sessions perfect for learning key skills and collaborative working
- practical sessions - using our extensive range of industry-standard facilities
- workshops - this includes surgery sessions where you’ll meet with your lecturer in small groups to discuss any problems or work through challenging topics.
The rest of your time will be spent carrying out independent study such as reading textbooks and lecture notes, and working on exercises.
Learn a new language
Alongside your study you also have the opportunity to learn a new language. The University Language Programme (ULP) is available to all students and gives you the option of learning a totally new language or improving the skills you already have. Find out more about the ULP.
Get Involved
Our student-run Astronomy and Physics Society organises social events and trips – all themed around hot Physics topics. Recently students have been searching for the Northern Lights in Iceland, visited the large hadron collider in CERN, and calculated the complex forces involved in roller coaster rides at Alton Towers.
How you're assessed
People excel in different ways, and we want everybody to have the best possible chance of success. That’s why we’ve adopted a range of assessment types, including:
- coursework, including group projects, case studies, dissertation and other assignments
- practical assessments, such as individual and group presentations, laboratory assessments and reports
- exams and tests, including formal exams, written tests and multiple-choice.
Careers and employability
Your career development
You will develop numerical, analytical and computational skills, which employers greatly respect, and essential, transferable skills, including report communication skills, teamwork and problem-solving.
Our recent graduates have secured roles at companies including:
- Rolls Royce
- NHS
- Jaguar Land Rover
- Nikon
- Balfour Beatty
They have gone into a wide variety of job roles, including:
- Research and Development Analyst
- Aerothermal Engineer
- Software Test Engineer
- Secondary Mathematics Teacher
- Finance Officer
Many graduates also choose to undertake further study on one of our Masters-level courses or MPhil and PhD research degrees in areas including Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Quantum Computing and Detector Research.
Placements
NTU is one of the most employment-focused universities. Increasingly, employers want to recruit graduates who have real-world work experience. That’s why all of our courses, across every subject area, offer you a work experience opportunity. Our experts help build and support your future with various career programmes and events.
On this course, after your third year, you will have the opportunity to take a year's work placement (sandwich placement). This will give you a chance to gain vital experience and put your knowledge into practice. You're also twice as likely to secure a graduate job within six months if you take a work placement.
Our recent students have taken placements across various companies, including DeVere Group, Cooper Parry and IBM. They secured varied roles such as Trainee Wealth Assistant, Business Analyst and Auditing Assistant.
You'll be supported and assessed throughout your placement year and will write a reflective report and diary at the end of your placement. When you complete your placement, you will be eligible to receive an additional award of a Diploma in Professional Practice.
Find out more about work placements.
Mathematics Undergraduate Researchers Studentship (MURS)
You will be able to apply for MURS Programme - a funded opportunity to collaborate with academic staff on cutting-edge research projects. It's a structured 6-8 weeks summer programme for second year full degree students, during which, you will meet weekly with your supervisor for mentorship and guidance. These sessions are tailored to your chosen project's needs and the supervisor's approach. It is an additional skill building opportunity that will equip you with essential skills to tackle active research problems and master the art of conducting mathematical research.
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their businesses.
Campus and facilities
You’ll mainly be studying in the Erasmus Darwin Building and Teaching and Learning Building with access to facilities including 3D printers and VR to help you visualise mathematical concepts:
- A custom-built teaching observatory recognised by the International Astronomical Union with a 20-inch and a 14-inch telescope and a 2.3m radio telescope
- MRI facilities, including a 2.35 Tesla Bruker Biospec scanner, a Halbach MRI and a unilateral MRI scanner
- A microscopy and imaging suite including electron microscopes, confocal and polarising microscopes, an atomic force microscope and a scanning tunnelling microscope
- A state-of-the-art micro-fabrication laboratory for creating micro-mechanical and microfluidic devices
- An excellent Ionising Radiation teaching laboratory and three X-ray CT scanners.
Last year, we spent £250,000 on new equipment for our teaching laboratories, including telescopes, CCD cameras, ultrasound scanners, magnetic resonance spectrometers, high-speed cameras, thermal imaging equipment and a high-resolution 3D printer. Our facilities and expertise ensure that our students get the practical experience that employers and researchers need.
Our self-contained, community-focused Clifton Campus has been designed to keep students busy between lectures. Catch-up with your course mates in the Pavilion’s barista café and Refectory; brainstorm group presentations in chic and stylish study spaces; enjoy some proper R&R in The Point, home of our Students’ Union. The campus also hosts the multimillion-pound Clifton Sports Hub, offering great options for everyone — whatever your interests, and however competitive you’d like to get!
You’re also right next to the bright lights of Nottingham — one of Britain’s top 10 student cities, and one of Europe’s top 25. All through termtime, a dedicated on-campus bus service will get you to the heart of the action (and back) in under 25 minutes. You’ll find a city stuffed with history, culture, and well-kept secrets to discover at your leisure: enjoy lush green spaces, galleries, hidden cinemas and vintage shopping by day, and an acclaimed food, drink and social scene by night.
Take our virtual tour to get a real feel for the campus.
Get Involved
Our student-run Astronomy and Physics Society organises social events and trips – all themed around hot Physics topics. Recently students have been searching for the Northern Lights in Iceland, visited the large hadron collider in CERN, and calculated the complex forces involved in roller coaster rides at Alton Towers.
Entry requirements
UK students
- Standard offer: 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent
- Other requirements: GCSE Maths grade B / 6 and English C / 4
To find out what qualifications have tariff points, please use our tariff calculator.
Additional requirements for UK students
There are no additional requirements for this course.
Contextual offers
If you don’t quite meet our entry requirements, we might be able to make you a lower offer based on a range of factors, including your background (such as where you live and the school or college you attended), your experiences and your individual circumstances (you may have been in care, for example). This is called a contextual offer, and we get data from UCAS to help make these decisions. We do this because we believe everyone with the potential to succeed at NTU should have the opportunity to do so, no matter what barriers you may face.
Meeting our entry requirements
Hundreds of qualifications in the UK have UCAS Tariff points attached to specific grades, including A-levels, BTECs, T Levels and many more. You can use your grades and points from up to three different qualifications to meet our criteria. Enter your predicted or achieved grades into our Tariff calculator to find out how many points your qualifications are worth.
Other qualifications and experience
NTU welcomes applications from students with non-standard qualifications and learning backgrounds, either for year one entry or for advanced standing beyond the start of a course into year 2 or beyond.
We consider study and/or credit achieved from a similar course at another institution (otherwise known as credit transfer), vocational and professional qualifications, and broader work or life experience.
Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route. If you wish to apply via Recognition of Prior Learning, please contact the central Admissions and Enquiries Team who will be able to support you through the process.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form.
International students
- Academic entry requirements: 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent. We accept equivalent qualifications from all over the world. Please check your international entry requirements by country.
- Other requirements: GCSE Maths grade B / 6 and English C / 4
- English language requirements: See our English language requirements page for requirements for your subject and information on alternative tests and Pre-sessional English.
Additional requirements for international students
English language requirements
View our English language requirements for all courses, including alternative English language tests and country qualifications accepted by the University.
If you need help achieving the language requirements, we offer a Pre-Sessional English for Academic Purposes course on our City campus which is an intensive preparation course for academic study at NTU.
Other qualifications and experience
If you have the right level of qualifications, you may be able to start your Bachelors degree at NTU in year 2 or year 3. This is called ‘advanced standing’ entry and is decided on a case-by case basis after our assessment of your qualifications and experience.
You can view our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy which outlines the process and options available, such as recognising experiential learning and credit transfer.
Sign up for emails
Sign up to receive regular emails from the International Office. You'll hear about our news, scholarships and any upcoming events in your country with our expert regional teams.
Getting in touch
If you need advice about studying at NTU as an international student or how to apply, our international webpages are a great place to start. If you have any questions about your study options, your international qualifications, experience, grades or other results, please get in touch through our enquiry form. Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world.
Policies
We strive to make our admissions procedures as fair and clear as possible. To find out more about how we make offers, visit our admissions policies page.
