Course Info
This challenging four-year course takes your study to Master’s level. This course is ideal if you are considering postgraduate study or a career involving high-level mathematical skills or research.
During the first two years you will follow a similar structure to the BSc. From the third year the MMath introduces a wider range of modules which explore more sophisticated methods of mathematical argument.
The MMath in Mathematics is housed in a brand-new facility, purpose-built to meet the learning, teaching and study needs of students from the Department. When you choose maths you’ll be taught by a team of mathematicians with a passion for sharing the beauty of mathematics and a wealth of experience in research across the spectrum of pure and applied mathematics and statistics. And with many of the teaching team actively involved at the forefront of research, the degree is designed to link learning to research in distinctive and creative ways.
The first year of the course begins with a broad-based introduction to pure and applied mathematics, statistics and probability and provides a sound foundation for in-depth study in subsequent years. In the second and third years the structure offers more flexibility, enabling you to shape your degree around one specific area or continue developing your skills across a wide range of subjects.
During the final year the range of optional modules expands further, introducing more advanced concepts and theories. The degree culminates in a double-module project that gives you the opportunity to investigate a mathematical topic of interest in depth.
You can also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad to your degree, increasing the course from four years to five.
Entry requirements
A level offer – A*A*A–A*AA.
Suitable performance in the University Admission Tests TMUA or MAT or 2 in any STEP will lead to the lower A*AA offer (A*A in Mathematics and Further Mathematics, either way round plus A in any other A level or equivalent). Otherwise the standard offer is A*A*A (A*A* in Mathematics and Further Mathematics plus A in any other A level or equivalent).
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – D*D*D – D*DD and A level requirements as above.
IB Diploma score – 38 with 776 or 766 in higher level subjects, including Mathematics (maths analysis & approaches).
In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note our offers consist of:
We strongly encourage applicants to sit the University’s Admissions Test (*) if it is available to them, as we give a high weighting in our selection process to evidence of ability in Mathematics.
We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study. Please contact our Admissions Selectors.
If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take an International Foundation Year pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.
We are pleased to consider applications for deferred entry, although we advise you to make sure that you take steps to maintain your level of mathematical expertise.
(*) The University uses a national Admission Test in Mathematics (TMUA), in conjunction with the Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing (CAAT). Test results will be sent by the CAAT directly to students at the end of November, and all information concerning the Test (including whether it was taken at all) will be provided to us by the applicants on an entirely voluntarily basis: suitable performance will entitle the applicant to the reduced A*AA offer. Taking part in the TMUA can therefore only increase the chances of receiving an offer. More information can be found on the Mathematics Department website, on the CAAT website and in most schools nationwide. (Schools that currently administer STEP and MAT will be automatically registered).
Science A levels
Applicants taking Science A levels that include a practical component will be required to take and pass this as a condition of entry. This applies only to applicants sitting A levels with an English examination board.