Mathematics courses

About Mathematical Sciences (single Honours) (bsc (hons)) in University College Cork

BSc Mathematical Sciences is an ideal broadly-based degree course for students who wish to develop their mathematical knowledge and ability to a level that is highly valued by employers.

Our students enjoy mathematics, were good at mathematics in school and want to make significant use of their mathematical skills in their careers. This course will help you to capitalise on your interest in mathematics by completing a strongly numerate degree.

You will study a wide range of topics across mathematics, applied mathematics and statistics, concentrating on the areas you like most, without becoming unduly specialised. There is a significant choice of courses, especially in Years 3 and 4.

You don’t need to have studied Applied Mathematics for Leaving Certificate, though naturally this would be an advantage.

In Year 1 you will both review much of what you learned in Leaving Certificate mathematics, with an emphasis on understanding, and build on this.

Each year, you will encounter new areas in the mathematical sciences, from modules in theoretical aspects of mathematics to its practical applications, the balance depending on your emerging interests.

You will learn programming skills in a mathematical context, will gain experience of working in groups, and you will learn written and oral exposition skills, not least through your final-year research projects or through your work in statistical consultancy. 

See the College Calendar for more detailed information on the programme and the Book of Modules for a more detailed description of programme modules.

• You will enter the jobs market with a top class numerate degree from one of the strongest Mathematical Sciences departments in the country.
• The emphasis on developing problem solving skills across a range of disciplines is highly regarded by employers.
• Our students have an excellent track record in both career development following graduation and in postgraduate study.
• We have strong links with local, national and international companies, as well as a strong international reputation in research which will add value to your degree. 

Placement or Study Abroad Information

The course does not include any formal placement module, but you are encouraged to seek a summer internship at the end of Year 3. Staff in the School of Mathematical Sciences are willing and able to advise you in sourcing a suitable position through well-established contacts with companies in Ireland.

Skills and Careers Information

As a graduate, you will have the technical and numeracy skills, as well as desirable soft skills, such as oral and written presentation skills and team work experience, which prepare you for a range of employment opportunities.

A mathematical science degree will be seen by employers as evidence that you are able to think independently and quickly learn new skills.

Career paths of recent graduates include:

• management consultancy
• actuary
• banking
• accountant
• options trading
• scientific research 
• software/computing
• pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries
• engineering-based industries such as electronics.

Academic qualification equivalents

 1.    All India Senior School Certificate 

 2.    Higher Secondary Certificate / Standard 12 

 3.    Indian School Certificate (Year 12) 

Band 1 Programmes

Minimum average of 90% + in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Band 2 Programmes

Minimum average of 80-89% in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Band 3 Programmes

Minimum average of 75-79% in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Additional Requirements

Where Maths is required for a specific degree programme, a minimum score of 85% in Maths is required.

Where a Lab Science subject is required for a specific degree programme, a minimum score of 85% is required in the appropriate Lab Science subject.

English language requirements (one of the below):

• IELTS: 6.5  Minimum individual sections 5.5
• TOEFL: TOEFL 90  Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing 17
• PTE: 63 Minimum individual sections 51

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