City University, London

At a Glance

In Depth

Why Study Mathematics at City University

City University London's mathematical science degree courses are designed to provide knowledge and skills that are in great demand by employers in both the private and public sector, enabling students to pursue a wide range of careers. The civil service, government agencies, and research establishments require mathematicians, as do large corporations, public utilities and financial companies.

At City we offer five different mathematics based courses, all of which provide an introduction to a wide range of mathematical techniques from pure and applied mathematics, and statistics. A central theme is the development of capacity for solving practical problems, grasping abstract concepts and elaborating logical mathematical arguments.

For full course details click on the link below:

To view our Mathematics brochure: click here

Teaching

Excellent facilities have been developed so that lectures and tutorials are supported through PC-based laboratory sessions as well as web-based learning material. Tutorials give you an opportunity to discuss the content of lectures or coursework with a member of staff. A particular feature of our course is the weekly small group tutorial for first year students, which allows us to provide intensive individual assistance in the early stages of the course.

Assessment

Assessment is based on coursework, project work and examinations. Marks for the BSc course are weighted in the ratio 1:3:6 to produce an overall aggregate. For the MMath course, the marks are weighted in the ratio 1:3:6:6. A year abroad or professional placement will not contribute to your final degree classification but will be indicated on your degree certificate.

Course Structure

Year One:

In year one you will concentrate on basic mathematical techniques.

Core modules:

  • Algebra
  • Ciphers and number theory
  • Computational mathematics
  • Functions, vectors and calculus
  • Mathematical communication
  • Probability and statistics
  • Programming

Year Two:

Core modules:

  • Calculus and vector calculus
  • Complex variable
  • Linear algebra
  • Real analysis

Plus a selection of optional modules from various topics in mathematics and statistics, including:

  • Application of probability and statistics
  • Applied mathematics
  • Decision analysis
  • Dynamical systems
  • Numerical mathematics

Year Three:

Core modules:

  • Mathematical methods
  • Project

 Plus a wide selection of optional modules in mathematics and statistics, including:

  • Differential equations
  • Discrete mathematics
  • Extreme value statistics
  • Fluid dynamics
  • Mathematical processes for finance
  • Operational research

The MMath Mathematical Science is a four year version of the corresponding three year degree. The fourth year contains a compulsory special topic, a second project and further optional modules from the third year course.

Research

Research Groups

Algebraic Representation Theory

The representation theory group focuses on modern aspects of the representation theory of finite groups, algebraic groups and related algebras, drawing motivation from geometry, statistical mechanics and string theory.

Mathematical Physics

The mathematical physics group focuses on quantum mechanics, quantum field theory and string theory. One of the distinguishing features of the mathematical physics group is its strong expertise on integrable systems.

Fluid Dynamics

The fluid dynamics group conducts fundamental research in applied mathematics in areas of thermal convection, boundary layer theory, double diffusive convection, vortex flows, pattern formation and magnetohydrodynamics. Both analytical and computational methods are employed, including extensive use of techniques based on stability theory and asymptotic analysis.

Mathematical Biology

The Mathematical Biology group uses game theory and related mathematical methods to model biological populations. Key areas include multi-player game theory, evolutionary models on graphs, and the modelling of specific behaviours such as kleptoparasitism and evolutionary signalling strategies in response to predators.

Employability

The Sunday Times University Guide 2011 has rated City University as 10th in UK for graduate employability. This good performance also extends to Mathematics degrees. 88% of Mathematics students graduating in 2010 had an occupation within 6 months of graduation.

Mathematics degrees provide students with training in advanced mathematical techniques as well as basic programming skills. Students develop good analytic and problem solving skills which are much in demand by employers. Mathematics graduates from City have gone on to various careers in business, finance, the civil service, teaching and accountancy. Some students have also carried out further study in the form of MSc or PhD programmes.  Good performance in certain modules can lead to exemptions from some professional examinations of the Institute of Actuaries.

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