Mathematical Sciences Undergraduate Study 2019
qmul.ac.uk/maths
Dr Shabnam Beheshti with students in the School’s study space
Any section of this publication is available in large print upon request. If you require this publication in a different accessible format we will endeavour to provide this where possible. For further information and assistance, please contact: hr-equality@qmul.ac.uk; +44 (0)20 “There is 7882 a true5585. culture of
collaboration between staff and students, making life here really rewarding” Dr Shabnam Beheshti, Director of Undergraduate Studies 2 qmul.ac.uk/maths
Contents
Welcome to the School of Mathematical Sciences
4
Our new facilities
6
Why choose Queen Mary?
8
Mathematical Sciences at Queen Mary
10
Degree programmes
12
The Professional Placement year
24
Year Abroad
26
Teaching and learning
28
Entry requirements
30
Finance, Scholarships and Bursaries
31
Careers for mathematics graduates
33
Careers support
35
The Mathematics Society
36
Student life in London
38
Our accommodation
40
Maps
42
Cover image: The Hopf fibration of the threesphere; the manifold of interest in the construction of de Sitter-like solutions to the Einstein constraint equations. Created by Jarrod Williams, PhD student in Geometry and Analysis within the School of Mathematical Sciences
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Welcome to the School of Mathematical Sciences The School of Mathematical Sciences at Queen Mary is renowned for its excellent research and supportive teaching. Our diverse range of single-honours and joint-honours programmes are taught by staff who are experts in their field, and offer undergraduates the opportunity to follow a degree that closely fits their interests. When you join Queen Mary, you will be welcomed into a diverse and supportive family of staff and students from all over the world. The School of Mathematical Sciences hosts leading researchers specialising in topics such as algebra, combinatorics, topology, probability and networks. This makes us a place of academic and personal self-discovery, and studying here an exciting – often life changing – experience. By providing a supportive environment that caters to the needs of students we aim to make your studies engaging and rewarding. Our priority is to provide our students with every opportunity to build the knowledge and experience that you require for future success, whether in further study or the world of work. From your first day with us you’ll be assigned an Academic Adviser who you can go to with any queries, as well as meeting our Student Support Officer who can assist you with any non-academic issues. Why study mathematics? If you enjoy solving puzzles and being able to prove you are right, then mathematics is for you. It permeates our daily lives and is used to describe quantity, shape, space and change. Patterns we 4 qmul.ac.uk/maths
encounter can be understood and explained using mathematics, inspiring new technologies and allowing us to make informed decisions. Mathematics is for people who can think logically and creatively and then explain their thoughts precisely. It is a demanding discipline, but identifying the correct answer to a difficult problem is very satisfying. At university you will discover a new world of advanced mathematical concepts and ideas. You will encounter unfamiliar kinds of mathematical objects and investigate their common features and abstract natures. But it is not all abstract: our statistics, finance and actuarial modules are very much about the real world – you will use mathematical skills to extract information from data and draw conclusions. As well as being an interesting subject to study, mathematics also opens doors to a wide range of exciting, rewarding and well-paid careers. Our graduates have the skills and expertise needed to pursue careers in a range of fields including business, finance, information technology, teaching, engineering, social media development, marketing, accountancy and academic research.
“Mathematics is a challenging subject, but there’s a sense of achievement I get when I finally solve a problem - there is nothing better than that!” Jared Newman, BSc Mathematics, 2018
“In the School of Mathematical Sciences we welcome intellectually curious students. We will nurture both your passion for mathematics and your drive to succeed in your chosen career path� Professor Boris Khoruzhenko, Head of School
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Our new facilities
We are investing approximately £18m in a transformative project to create an inspiring, collaborative space for our community of mathematics students and staff. The images on these pages show some of our architects’ designs for the building, due for completion in April 2019.
You can find out more about this exciting development, and follow the progress of the Mathematical Sciences building project via our dedicated website, at qmul.ac.uk/maths/ ourbuilding Artist impression of the Mathematics Building
As well as high-quality teaching rooms there will be a range of private and group study areas throughout the building (including dedicated undergraduate study space), and a new social hub to give all members of the School of Mathematical Sciences a welcoming space to meet, collaborate and relax.
Our bright new social space
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All images are artist impressions Credit: Kendall Kingscott Ltd
The transformed Mathematical Sciences Building shown from Godward Square. All images are artist impressions. Credit: Kendall Kingscott Ltd
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Why choose Queen Mary University of London? n World-class university
Queen Mary is a world-class university, ranking in the UK Top 20 QS World University Rankings 2019. We are a member of the Russell Group and attract some of the very brightest minds to study, teach and undertake research here.
n Career success
We are focused on providing the support you need to succeed in your future career path, with regular careers and networking events, skills workshops and 1:1 support available. We’re close to the financial hubs of Canary Wharf and the City, where many of our students find graduate employment - 91% of Queen Mary graduates are in work or further study within 6 months of graduation.
n Friendly campus lifestyle
We offer a completely self-contained residential campus at our Mile End home. You will be able to enjoy all the benefits of a campus lifestyle including safety, convenience and a friendly atmosphere while being just minutes from central London.
n High-quality teaching
Our teaching is inspired by our world-leading research (we came 9th in the UK in the Research Excellence Framework - REF2014), and you will be taught by academics who are leaders in their field. Our academics embrace innovative teaching methods and receive national awards as a result.
n Exceptional facilities
We have spent more than £250m on new facilities over the past 15 years. Within the School of Mathematical Sciences, we are investing approximately £18m in a transformative project to create an inspiring, 8 qmul.ac.uk/maths
collaborative space for our community of students and staff (see page 6).
n Our London location
We are a short walk from fashionable Brick Lane and Shoreditch and close to the City, Canary Wharf and the Olympic Park. Set beside Regent’s Canal, the campus is tranquil and green, while excellent public transport links mean that the West End is only minutes away.
n A range of support
From over 1,500 computers around campus, to our language courses, advice and counselling services and provisions for those with disabilities or dyslexia, we offer a huge range of support to help you achieve your full potential.
n Generous financial support
We started out in 1887 as the People’s Palace, a philanthropic centre bringing education and culture to east London. We remain true to these roots and offer a generous package of bursaries and scholarships that benefit around 50 per cent of our undergraduate intake. This ensures the brightest students receive a first-class education, regardless of their background. See page 31 for more information.
n International outlook
Our students and staff come to Queen Mary from more than 160 different countries and we rank in the top 25 most internationally diverse universities in the world (Times Higher Education 2017). This helps to make our university a welcoming environment to students coming from overseas and gives you the opportunity to meet other students and staff from around the world.
• See page XX
15mins TO THE CITY FINANCIAL DISTRICT
12mins TO CANARY WHARF
11mins TO SHOREDITCH HIGH STREET
10mins TO QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK
4mins TO BEAUTIFUL VICTORIA PARK
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Mathematical Sciences at Queen Mary • A dedicated Careers Consultant and an Internships Co-ordinator to help develop employability throughout your studies. See page 35 • Opportunity to undertake a Professional Placement year across many of our programmes. See page 24
• Extensive support provision, including a dedicated Student Support Officer within the School and an Academic Adviser assigned to every student
• Networking opportunities through links with our alumni, associated institutions and leading employers, including Citigroup, Moody’s Analytics, Bank of England • Flexible programmes with a selection of optional modules to tailor your degree. See pages 12-22 • Joint programmes with the School of Economics & Finance and the School of Business & Management allow you to study complementary subjects and benefit from diverse academic expertise. See pages 16-19 10 qmul.ac.uk/maths
• Opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner universities. See page 26
• Campus location close to London’s main financial districts: the City of London and Canary Wharf • A large mathematics department with over 65 members of academic staff. We offer high-quality teaching from academics who are experts across a variety of fields and are regularly published in top mathematical journals
Nearby Canary Wharf, one of the world’s financial centres
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Degree programmes
Science and Engineering Foundation Programme: Mathematical Sciences GGX1 (4 years with BSc)
A-level: BBC including mathematics For information on alternative entry qualifications for the foundation programme, go to qmul.ac.uk/GGX1
“I feel better prepared for exams now – I’ve learnt how to structure my revision and I’ve gained independence. It’s been a really good preparation for my degree.”
Combine a foundation year with a traditional university degree in mathematical sciences.
Barbara Sikora, now studying MSci Mathematics (graduating 2021), following successful completion of the Foundation Programme
Get the skills and experience you need to study an undergraduate degree in mathematical sciences with our integrated foundation programme, open to UK, EU and international students.
As a foundation student, you will have full access to all student facilities, including welfare, library, social and sport. UK and EU foundation students are eligible for funding through the Student Loans Company. You will be taught on our Mile End campus by experienced university staff who also teach on undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
You are guaranteed a place on one of the following programmes at Queen Mary if you pass the foundation year, without having to re-apply through UCAS:
Examples of some modules currently offered: • Communication in Science and Technology • Discrete Maths
• Mathematics BSc
• Essential Foundation Mathematics
• Pure Mathematics BSc
• Introduction to Business Information Systems
• Mathematics and Statistics BSc
• Introduction to Engineering
• Mathematics with Management BSc • Mathematics with Actuarial Science BSc • Mathematics with Finance and Accounting BSc
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• Mathematics I and II • Physics - Fields and Waves For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/GGX1
BSc Mathematics
G100 (three years) G101 (four years with Professional Placement) G10Y (four years with a Year Abroad) A-level: AAB including A in mathematics IB: 34 overall with 665 in HL subjects, including mathematics BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
Our most flexible mathematics programme; take a broad approach to the whole subject, or drill deep into areas that interest you most. Discover a new world of concepts and ideas when you study mathematics at Queen Mary. In your first year you will build a solid grounding in pure, discrete, decision and modern applied mathematics, probability and statistics. In subsequent years you can choose from modules across all mathematical disciplines, taught by active researchers. You will have the freedom to take new directions on your mathematical journey, studying
topics in depth as your interests develop. You can also align your studies to your career goals, choosing modules relating to actuarial and financial mathematics, computer programming, teaching and more. You may choose to undertake the full MSci programme, taking an extra year to develop specialised knowledge through your choice of advanced modules (see page 20). This programme gives you the option to extend your BSc degree with a Professional Placement year, or Year Abroad. For more information see pages 24-27. Examples of some modules currently offered: • Calculus • Combinatorics • Complex Variables • Communicating and Teaching Mathematics • Computing and Data Analysis with Excel • Financial Mathematics • Introduction to Computer Programming • Linear Algebra
“I love the flexibility my course offers; I have the freedom to specialise in things that I’m interested in. The mathematics department is also very supportive and helpful.”
• Probability and Statistics • Relativity • Statistical Modelling For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/G100
Ruth Arnett, Mathematics BSc, 2018 qmul.ac.uk/maths 13
Degree programmes
BSc Pure Mathematics
G110 (three years) G1NY (four years with a Year Abroad) A-level: AAB including A in mathematics IB: 34 overall with 665 in HL subjects, including mathematics BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
Take one of the few UK degrees in pure mathematics, in a School renowned for research into algebra, combinatorics and geometry.
“My favourite part of the course has been presenting my work to other people so I can share my passion for maths with others. Seeing engaging lecturers has been useful in inspiring my own presentation style.” George Benbow, Pure Mathematics, BSc 2020
In the first year you will build a solid foundation across all areas of mathematics, discovering a new world of concepts and ideas while studying pure, discrete, decision mathematics, probability, and statistics.
Examples of some modules currently offered: • Algebraic Structures
From the second year you will concentrate on algebra, geometry and analysis; encountering new kinds of mathematical objects and investigating their common features and abstract natures, focusing on the intrinsic beauty of pure mathematics more than realworld applications.
• Combinatorics
In your second and third study years you will have a mix of compulsory modules and options, allowing you to focus on aspects of pure mathematics that most interest you. This programme gives you the option to extend your BSc degree with a Year Abroad, studying at one of our partner universities. For more information see page 26.
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• Calculus • Chaos and Fractals • Complex Variables • Communicating and Teaching Mathematics • Computing and Data Analysis with Excel • Differential Geometry • Differential and Integral Analysis • Number Theory • Probability and Statistics • Statistical Modelling For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/G110
BSc Mathematics and Statistics
GG31 (three years) GG32 (four years with Professional Placement) GG3Y (four years with a Year Abroad) A-level: AAB including A in mathematics IB: 34 overall with 665 in HL subjects, including mathematics BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
Statistics is essential to making advances in science, technology, business and public policy, and is a fascinating field of study in itself. This BSc combines rigorous all-round mathematical training with in-depth study of statistics. You will spend your first year building a foundation across pure, discrete, decision and modern applied mathematics, probability and statistics. From the second year you will specialise in statistics, building statistical theory and methodology on mathematical foundations, especially probability theory. Probabilistic modelling has applications in genetics, quantum physics and risk analysis, and is increasingly used in the financial sector. You can study topics such as statistics for insurance, financial time series and actuarial mathematics.
A choice of second and third year modules allows you to focus on aspects of statistics that most interest you, or broaden your studies into related areas such as programming, computational statistics or teaching mathematics. If you want to take your study of statistics deeper and develop mathematical research skills, consider the integrated Masters option; our four-year MSci Mathematics with Statistics (see page 21). Alternatively, this programme gives you the option to extend your BSc degree with a Professional Placement year, or Year Abroad. For more information see pages 24-27. Examples of some modules currently offered: • Algebraic Structures • Bayesian Statistics • Calculus • Complex Variables • Computational Statistics with R • Computing and Data Analysis with Excel • Financial Mathematics • Introduction to Computer Programming • Linear Programming and Games • Probability and Stochastic Processes • Statistical Modelling • Statistics for Insurance For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/GG31
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Degree programmes
BSc Mathematics with Finance and Accounting
A-level: AAB including A in mathematics
“Lecturers are exceptionally passionate about their subjects; their enthusiasm makes learning engaging and interesting”
IB: 34 overall with 665 in HL subjects, including mathematics
Rassecah Jayashanker, BSc Mathematics with Finance and Accounting, 2019
G1N4 (three years) G1N6 (four years with Professional Placement) G14Y (four years with a Year Abroad)
BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
Develop vital numerical and analytical skills along with a solid grounding in finance and accounting in this joint degree programme.
This programme gives you the option to extend your BSc degree with a Professional Placement year, or Year Abroad. For more information see pages 24-27. Examples of some modules currently offered: • Actuarial Mathematics
This programme combines mathematical and statistical training with finance and accounting, including general financial theory and its applications in the world of business and commerce.
• Calculus
In your first year you will build a solid grounding across all areas of mathematics, probability and statistics, and explore the world of finance with modules in accounting and economics. Over the second and third years, you will focus on statistics and modern applied mathematics alongside management accounting and financial mathematics.
• Financial Management
Joint teaching from the School of Mathematical Sciences and the School of Business and Management means you will learn from experts across both fields, and benefit from the support and facilities of two academic schools.
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• Computational Statistics with R • Economics for Business • Introduction to Computer Programming • Financial Mathematics • Linear Programming and Games • Managerial Accounting • Probability and Statistics • Statistical Modelling For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/G1N4
BSc Mathematics with Management
This programme gives you the option to extend your BSc degree with a Professional Placement year, or Year Abroad. For more information, see pages 24-27.
A-level: AAB including A in mathematics
Examples of some modules currently offered: • Business Analytics
G12N (three years) G1NN (four years with Professional Placement) G13N (four years with a Year Abroad) IB: 34 overall with 665 in HL subjects, including mathematics BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
The perfect degree for the mathematically gifted student with ambition to be the future leader of a major organisation. By studying Mathematics with Management, you will combine the numerical and analytical skills and rigour of a mathematics degree with strong business acumen. You will study pure, discrete, decision and modern applied mathematics, probability and statistics. Tailored business modules will help you to develop skills suited to a future career in a financial institution, technology company, or multinational corporation, learning alongside other mathematicians and scientists.
• Calculus • Cryptography • Economics for Business • Entrepreneurship • Financial Mathematics • Fundamentals of Management • Linear Programming and Games • Numerical Computing with C and C++ • Probability and Statistics • Project Management • Statistical Modelling • Strategy For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/G12N
Management modules have a particular emphasis on social justice, sustainability and good governance in the management of private, public and charitable organisations. You will cover topics such as financial accounting, entrepreneurship, business analytics, strategy, and economics, building an in-depth understanding of the corporate environment.
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Degree programmes
Accredited programme
BSc Mathematics with Actuarial Science G1N3 (three years) G1N5 (four years with Professional Placement) GN3Y (four years with a Year Abroad) A-level: AAA-AAB including A in mathematics IB: 36-34 overall with 665 in HL subjects, including mathematics BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
Follow a bespoke, accredited programme combining core mathematics with specialist modules, designed to give you a head start in your actuarial career. Actuaries are problem-solvers who can think strategically, drawing on their mathematical skills to measure the probability and risk of future events. This profession offers a satisfying and financially rewarding career path across areas such as general insurance, life insurance, pensions and investment. This degree is accredited by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA), and successful students will be able to gain up to six exemptions from the IFoA Core Principles examinations (under the new curriculum previously eight Core Technical exams). This programme combines core fundamentals of mathematics with specialist modules in probability, statistics, actuarial and financial mathematics, and business economics. You will have the opportunity to learn from qualified actuaries with many years of industry experience. 18 qmul.ac.uk/maths
“My degree is changing the way I think about Maths. Every day we learn new theories and concepts, and their applications. We’ve also had interesting guest lectures given by people from industry.” Lakshmi Putcha, BSc Mathematics with Actuarial Science, 2019 Alongside your academic studies, you will follow an Actuarial Professional Development programme, gaining relevant skills and industry knowledge in preparation for a successful career. This programme gives you the option to extend your BSc degree with a Professional Placement year, or Year Abroad. For more information, see pages 22-27. Examples of some modules currently offered: • Actuarial Mathematics • Actuarial Professional Development • Computing and Data Analysis with Excel • Corporate Financial Reporting • Economics for Business Management • Introduction to Computer Programming • Financial Mathematics • Linear Algebra • Probability and Statistics • Statistics for Insurance • Survival Models For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/G1N3
BSc Mathematics, Statistics and Financial Economics
Joint teaching from the School of Mathematical Sciences and the School of Economics and Finance enables you to learn from experts across both fields and benefit from the facilities and support of two academic schools.
A-level: AAA including mathematics
This programme gives you the option to extend your BSc degree with a Professional Placement year, or Year Abroad. For more information see pages 22-27.
GL11 (three years) GL12 (four years with Professional Placement) GL1Y (four years with a Year Abroad) IB: 36 overall with 666 in HL subjects, including mathematics BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
Mathematics and economics make an excellent match: this programme aims to develop mathematical rigour alongside an in-depth understanding of the economic climate. Studying Mathematics, Statistics and Financial Economics will develop your understanding of the macroeconomic and microeconomic environment, along with the strong numerical and analytical skills of a mathematics degree. This programme is for mathematically excellent students who are seeking to apply their knowledge to succeed in a career in the world of economics, investment banking, and finance. In the first year you will cover core topics in mathematics, as well as an introduction to economics. From then on the programme is evenly split between the two disciplines, with an emphasis on statistics and probability in your mathematics modules, complemented with topics across micro- and macroeconomics, the study of institutions and markets, and financial mathematics.
Examples of some modules currently offered: • Applied Linear Algebra • Calculus • Capital Markets • Corporate Finance • Financial Markets and Institutions • Financial Mathematics • Futures and Options • Games and Strategies • Macroeconomics • Microeconomics • Probability and Statistics • Statistical Modelling • Time Series For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/GL11
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Degree programmes
MSci Mathematics
G102 (four years) G12Y (five years with a Year Abroad) A-level: AAA including mathematics IB: 36 overall with 666 in HL subjects, including mathematics BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
Did you know...? In your final year of this flexible MSci you can choose options from approximately 40 different modules across the School of Mathematical Sciences and the School of Physics and Astronomy!
This extension of our flexible BSc programme allows you to explore further into a broad range of core and specialist mathematical topics.
Examples of some modules currently offered: • Calculus
You will follow a very similar path to the BSc Mathematics programme for your first three years, building a solid grounding in pure, discrete, decision and modern applied mathematics, probability and statistics, and discovering new areas of mathematics (see page 13 for details of the BSc). You can also align your studies to your career goals, choosing modules relating to actuarial and financial mathematics, computer programming, teaching and more.
• Combinatorics
In the fourth year of your MSci, you will develop further specialised knowledge through your choice of advanced modules. You will also complete a research project under the supervision of an academic adviser. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your independent research skills whilst learning more about a topic of particular interest.
• Probability and Statistics
This programme gives you the option to extend your MSci degree with a Year Abroad, studying at one of our partner universities. For more information see page 26. 20 qmul.ac.uk/maths
• Chaos and Fractals • Coding Theory • Complex Variables • Communicating and Teaching Mathematics • Computational Statistics with R • Dynamical Systems • Financial Mathematics • Group Theory • Linear Algebra • MSci Project • Relativity • Research Methods • Statistical Modelling For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/G102
MSci Mathematics with Statistics G1G3 (four years) GG1Y (four years with a Year Abroad) A-level: AAA including mathematics IB: 36 overall with 666 in HL subjects, including mathematics BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
This MSci programme allows you to explore deeper into the fascinating world of statistics; essential to making advances in science, technology, business and public policy. You will follow a very similar path to the BSc Mathematics and Statistics programme for your first three years; combining rigorous all-round mathematical training with in-depth study of statistics. You will spend your first year building a foundation across pure, discrete, decision and modern applied mathematics, probability and statistics. From your second year, you will be able to choose from a wide range of modules, allowing you to focus on aspects of statistics that most interest you, or broaden your studies into related areas such as programming, financial mathematics, computational statistics, or teaching mathematics.
In the fourth year of your MSci, you will develop further specialised knowledge through your choice of advanced modules. You will also complete a research project, under the supervision of an academic adviser. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your independent research skills whilst learning more about a topic of particular interest. This programme gives you the option to extend your MSci degree with a Year Abroad, studying at one of our partner universities. For more information see page 26. Examples of some modules currently offered: • Algebraic Structures • Bayesian Statistics • Calculus • Complex Variables • Computational Statistics with R • Financial Mathematics • Introduction to Computer Programming • Linear Programming and Games • MSci Project • Probability and Stochastic Processes • Research Methods • Statistical Modelling • Statistics for Insurance For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/G1G3
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Degree programmes
MSci Financial Mathematics
This programme gives you the option to extend your MSci degree with a Professional Placement year, or Year Abroad. For more information, see pages 24-27.
A-level: AAA including mathematics
Examples of some modules currently offered: • Actuarial Mathematics
GN1H (four years) GN2H (five years with Professional Placement) GNHY (five years with a Year Abroad) IB: 36 overall with 666 in HL subjects, including mathematics BTEC: See qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/btec for detailed requirements
•A dvanced Portfolio Theory and Risk Management • Applied Linear Algebra
This degree incorporates key areas of pure and applied mathematics with more specialist knowledge of financial mathematics, numerical methods and computing.
• Complex Variables
Our Financial Mathematics MSci is ideal for students planning a career in the more quantitative areas of finance and banking, and for those wanting to undertake academic research.
• Probability and Stochastic Processes
In your first year, you will take modules that will give you a foundation in all the core areas of mathematics and statistics, and gain practical data analysis skills. In later years, you will have the opportunity to study modules across financial and actuarial mathematics, statistical modelling, financial management, programming, and more.
• Statistics for Insurance
In your final year, you will take advanced modules and develop your research skills by completing an individual project in contemporary mathematical finance. Projects are supervised by one of the School’s academics, many of whom have industry experience in mathematical finance. 22 qmul.ac.uk/maths
• Economics for Business • Financial Institutions • Financial Mathematics • MSci Project • Professional Skills and Data Analysis with SAS • Programming in C++ for Finance • Statistical Modelling • Time Series For further details, including a full list of modules please visit: qmul.ac.uk/GN1H
Maths student Rachel catching up with friends in Ground cafe on campus
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The Professional Placement year Most of our programmes offer you the option to extend your degree to include a Professional Placement year (often referred to as a ‘sandwich’ programme). This takes the form of a one-year work placement within a relevant organisation, throughout which you are supported by the university and complete a report on your experience and achievements. Why choose a Professional Placement? A Professional Placement is an excellent opportunity to develop your business skills and gain hands-on experience. As well as helping you to secure graduate employment, this can support your academic achievement by providing additional context to your studies. If you’re not sure what career path you want to follow after your degree, a placement year can be an excellent way to help you understand your options and make decisions about your future.
“Professional placements add value to my business and enable students to develop business skills as well as real experience” Eamonn McMurrough, Senior Partner, Strategic Risk Consulting, Willis Towers Watson (and a member of our Professional Advisory Board)
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Where would I be working? You would be working in a paid role within a relevant organisation but would still receive support from the university throughout your placement year. As a maths student, you could be working in a wide range of organisations, including: banks and insurance companies, accountants, consultancy firms, industrial firms and manufacturers, retailers, technology companies, and governmental and public sector organisations (such as the Civil Service, NHS and GCHQ). Who can take a Professional Placement? We offer the Professional Placement option across the majority of our undergraduate programmes. See the course listing on pages 12 to 22 for more information. If you choose to take this opportunity, our dedicated Placement Officer will support you in identifying and applying for a suitable placement role.
How is the Professional Placement assessed? Your placement year will be assessed through written coursework, a short presentation and employer feedback. Whilst this will not count towards your final degree grade, after successful completion it will appear on your transcript in the title of your qualification, as e.g. “BSc Mathematics with Professional Placement�. For more information about the Professional Placement year, including FAQs, see our website: qmul.ac.uk/maths/ professionalplacement
Example: BSc Mathematics course structure 3 years
4 years with Professional Placement
First year of study
First year of study
Second year of study
Second year of study
Final year of study
Professional Placement year Final year of study
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Year Abroad
We offer the option to complete an additional Year Abroad, studying at one of our partner institutions overseas, across any of our Mathematics undergraduate programmes. Why choose a Year Abroad? Living and studying in a different country and immersing yourself in another culture helps you to understand, connect with and appreciate the world. International experience enables you to stand out in a crowded employment market; graduates with international experience show they are willing to learn, can problem-solve, act on their own initiative and work very well in diverse teams. When does the Year Abroad take place? Your Year Abroad would take place in your third year of study, for the full academic year. You would then return after your placement to complete your final year of study (for BSc, or third and fourth years for MSci students). During your time abroad, you continue to be a Queen Mary student and have full access to support from the university. How to apply You can apply directly to the ‘with a Year Abroad’ variant of our programmes in UCAS, using the course codes listed on pages 12 to 22. Alternatively, you will have the option to transfer into the Year Abroad stream of your programme once you are studying with us, so long as you meet the academic progression requirements. To find out more about our Year Abroad options, go to: qmul.ac.uk/maths/yearabroad
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64% of employers think that international experience is important for recruitment
Source: European Commission study (2014)
We have partner universities in: • Australia
• Malaysia
• Canada
• New Zealand
• France
• Singapore
• Germany
•S outh Korea
• Italy
• USA
• Hong Kong qmul.ac.uk/maths 27
Teaching and learning
In the most recent national assessment of research quality, Queen Mary was placed ninth in the UK among multi-faculty universities (REF 2014). Our teaching is directly inspired by the world-leading research of our academics. Teaching Each year you will normally take eight modules. The majority of modules are delivered via a combination of lectures and tutorials. Some modules have a practical element and are presented in one of our computer labs. • Lectures are usually delivered to large groups of students and are used to teach new content. Lecturers may use a range of teaching tools such as presentation slides, whiteboards, handouts, demonstrations and interactive technologies. • Tutorials support your lectures and give you the opportunity to work on problems, discuss solutions and ask questions in a smaller group. Academics or PhD students will lead the tutorials and provide guidance. Assessment The majority of modules are assessed by an examination counting for at least 90 per cent of your marks; the remaining ten per cent comes from a test or coursework. A final year project is compulsory for an MSci programme but optional for most BSc students. Our flexible programmes Our wide-ranging expertise is reflected in the degree programmes we offer. For all of our students there are a number of core modules 28 qmul.ac.uk/maths
The QMUL Model is part of all of our degree programmes. This innovative new approach to study creates additional opportunities for personal development as part of your degree. In your first year, QMUL Model modules will help you to develop your skills in communication, data analysis and Excel. As you move through your degree programme, you will have the opportunity to build on these and other skills. qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/whyqm/teaching designed to develop your strengths in key areas of mathematics. Across many of our degrees you will be able to choose from a range of elective modules in order to tailor your programme to your interests and discover new areas of mathematics. Most students take at least one module with a computational component and make use of access to excellent computing facilities. Student Support You will be assigned an Academic Adviser in your first week, who will usually support you throughout your studies. Your Adviser can help to guide you through any academic issues, such as choosing which modules to study. In addition, the School of Mathematical Sciences has a dedicated Student Support Officer to provide you with advice and guidance on any issues that are not primarily academic. The Student Support Officer’s role is to promote and support a positive student experience and help you to access further support services.
Dr Matthew Fayers works through a mathematical problem during a tutorial
“For me, a hallmark of really understanding a piece of mathematics is the immediate impetus to show it to someone else. So loving mathematics necessarily involves loving to teach it.� Dr Matthew Fayers, Reader in Pure Mathematics
qmul.ac.uk/maths 29
Entry requirements
For all full-time higher education programmes at universities and colleges in the UK, students must apply online at ucas.com UCAS has a comprehensive guide which can be downloaded from their website. We also have a step-by-step guide to applying on the Queen Mary website, at: qmul.ac.uk/ undergraduate/apply Entry requirements For specific entry requirements please see individual programme descriptions on pages 12-22. In addition to A-Levels, we accept a wide range of other qualifications, including the International Baccalaureate, Access and Foundation Programmes and overseas qualifications. Full details of our entry requirements and overseas equivalencies can be found on our website: qmul.ac.uk/maths/ undergraduate/entry-requirements/ English language qualifications We expect all students to have a good level of English in order to be successful on our degree programmes. Our minimum English language requirement is GCSE grade C or 4. For international students we require a score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in all sections (excluding GL11 and its related programmes for which we require IELTS 6.5).
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A number of accepted equivalent qualifications are listed on the QMUL website: qmul.ac.uk/ eng-lang-reqs Contact us For undergraduate admissions enquiries: Email: maths@qmul.ac.uk Tel: +44(0)20 7882 5470
Meet us The best way to get a feel for life in the School of Mathematical Sciences at Queen Mary is to come and meet us. Open Days for 2019 entry will be on: • Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd June 2018 • Saturday 6th October 2018 For more information and to book your place, go to qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/ openday If you are successful in gaining an offer to study with us, you will also be invited to one of our dedicated Offer-holder Days. At these events you can explore the campus, meet our academics, support staff and students, experience a taster lecture and get a feel for what studying maths at QMUL is like. We have representatives in many countries and staff who regularly travel overseas to meet future QMUL students. For more information including visit dates, go to qmul.ac.uk/international
Finance, Scholarships and Bursaries Queen Mary Global Excellence Scholarships In recognition of the important investment that you are making in your education, we offer scholarships worth ÂŁ3000 for top applicants across all of our Mathematics undergraduate programmes. These awards will be offered to students achieving A*AA or equivalent at A Level. For full eligibility criteria please see our website. Bursaries There is a wide range of generous bursaries available at Queen Mary, in order to ensure that the best and brightest students are able to study with us and to minimise barriers to learning. These include the QMUL Bursary and a number of alumni and partner awards. Full details of all of our scholarships and bursaries, including eligibility criteria, are available on our website: qmul.ac.uk/ scholarships Our fees are published for individual courses (and for UK, EU and overseas students) online, via the undergraduate course finder: qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate
The Queens’ Building, Mile End has a proud association with not one, but four queens: Queen Victoria; Queen Mary (wife of King George V); Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother; and our patron, Queen Elizabeth II qmul.ac.uk/maths 31
“Maths is full of such transferable skills. At Queen Mary you get to study maths that is relevant to the industry. The mathematical theorems we learnt are similar to the financial concepts in my work - they are complex but if you can get your head around them you’ll do well. ” Aahnaf Hossain, BSc Mathematics 2015, now working in Financial Markets at ING 32 qmul.ac.uk/maths
Alumnus Aahnaf Hossain talks to us about his graduate role
Careers for mathematics graduates
The study of mathematics has the potential to open up many different career paths, as demonstrated by our alumni who work across a wide variety of careers.
The broad range of skills gained through our degrees, coupled with opportunities for extracurricular activities and work experience, has enabled our recent graduates to move into varied roles, including:
Career prospects Many of our alumni apply their degree knowledge directly, working in finance, accountancy or actuarial professions. Others translate their skills and knowledge across broader industries such as management consultancy, marketing, engineering, teaching and the public sector.
• Audit Associate
91% of Queen Mary graduates are in work or further study within 6 months (DLHE 2016) What our graduates do next Our mathematics students have successfully secured graduate roles with major employers, including: KPMG, Lloyds Banking Group, PwC, Deloitte, National Audit Office, Société Générale, EY and Legal & General.
Did you know...? Five years after graduating, Maths graduates are the third highest earners on average, compared to other degree subjects (Institute for Fiscal Studies report, 2018)
• Actuary • Statistical Officer • Graduate Project Manager • Software Engineer • Insurance Underwriter • Trader • Risk Analytics Consultant A number of our graduates have also set up their own businesses upon graduation, making the most of the funding and support available from our Careers Service for student entrepreneurs. Further study Following your undergraduate degree you may choose to study for a Masters, begin an academic research career with a PhD, or undertake additional certification for your future career, such as an Actuarial or Accounting qualification, or a PGCE. In recent years our graduates have gone on to further study in areas such as Mathematical Finance, Machine Learning, Investment Management, Network Science and Business Analytics, either remaining at QMUL or moving on to other leading institutions across the UK and overseas.
qmul.ac.uk/maths 33
Rehab-Al in the new Graduate Centre foyer
“Through the Careers Taster Scheme I have visited a range of companies, including Barclays, MediaCom and Liberty Mutual. As a first year student those Insight Days have given me a broad perspective on what careers are available and how to market myself.� Rehab-Al Mohsin, BSc Mathematics with Actuarial Science, 2019 34 qmul.ac.uk/maths
Careers support
How we support you Alongside the university’s central Careers and Enterprise service, in the School of Mathematical Sciences we have a dedicated Careers Consultant and an Internships Coordinator who each have expert knowledge of the job market and the skills you need for a successful future career.
of engaging activities and events on campus, in local schools and with our outreach partner organisations; a great way to build valuable skills.
Support available includes: • One-to-one careers appointments • CV-checking and mock interviews • Tailored employability workshops • Opportunities to meet employers through events (such as Insight Days) • Guidance for internships, part-time jobs and work placements
Information library You can use the information library in the Careers Centre or online via the Careers website, Jobs Blog and social media channels (which includes online practice psychometric tests). This assists you with developing work experience, identifying opportunities and making strong job applications.
Enterprise Students and graduates across Queen Mary start new business and social ventures each year. Some make money, others make a positive social impact; some do both. We provide support in the form of funding, advice, workshops, workspace, and access to experts and valuable networks.
In addition to paid work, the Students’ Union offers a whole host of volunteering opportunities.
For more information about our careers support, visit: careers.qmul.ac.uk
Work experience Queen Mary students can benefit from our work experience scheme, QConsult, which allows students to build valuable transferable skills by working with local charities and businesses. There are also plenty of opportunities to work part-time during your studies, should you wish. On campus, you may choose to undertake paid work in the Library, or in one of catering or retail outlets, for example. You could even work as a Maths Ambassador - being trained and paid to represent the School through a variety
Maths Ambassador Michelle working with school students at a Taster Day qmul.ac.uk/maths 35
The Mathematics Society
Clubs and societies form an important part of the student experience, and the Mathematics Society has long been one of the largest and most active at Queen Mary. We are proud of this fantastic addition to the School of Mathematical Sciences; a society run entirely by students and supported by School staff and funding. Whilst any Queen Mary student can become a member (for a nominal fee), maths students have the opportunity to develop valuable experience and transferable skills by joining the Mathematics Society committee or helping to organise events.
“The Maths Society offers events for all students, including career focused, academic and social events - so there is something for everyone to get involved with and enjoy!” Leesha Varsani, Mathematics Society President and BSc Mathematics student
Recent awards: • Bronze Societies Excellence Award 2017 • Academic Society of the Year 2018 (nominee) 36 qmul.ac.uk/maths
What does the Mathematics Society do? The Mathematics Society organises a wide variety of activities and events, as shown in some of our favourite photographs on the opposite page! This helps us to foster our fantastic, friendly community. It also gives you a chance to explore your love of maths, increase your knowledge and skills and enhance your employability. • Social events help to reinforce the sense of community. Regular activities include pizza nights, pub quizzes, laser tag, Pi Day celebrations and the Spring Ball, as well as a recent trip to Bletchley Park. They are a fantastic way to meet other Maths students outside of your lectures. • Residential trips range from visiting the Mathematikum museum in Germany to camping in Wales! • Academic events such as our annual MathsSoc Conference, include specially arranged talks from academics on a range of mathematical topics not necessarily seen in lectures. Past guest speakers have included Queen Mary Fellow and ‘stand-up mathematician’ Matt Parker, and Emeritus Professor Peter Cameron. • Careers events are an opportunity for you to meet major employers on campus and find out more about your career options. This includes our annual Maths Impact Day, organised in collaboration with the Careers department, and events such as our recent ‘Application Tips and Tricks’ talk with Accenture.
Photos of some of our recent Mathematics Society trips and events
qmul.ac.uk/maths 37
Student life in London As one of the world’s most exciting and culturally rich cities, London is a great place to live and study: you’ll never run out of things to see and explore. With nearly 400,000 students studying here, it’s a fantastic place to be a student. There’s always something going on, with free attendance at many events. Your student card will also get you reduced entry to a surprising number of places, as well as discounts on clothes and food. You will have access to…
• Exceptional music and nightlife • Over 300 museums and galleries • One of the greenest cities on earth • Multicultural cuisine • Outstanding markets Find out more about our students’ favourite spots in London: qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/ whyqm/london
38 qmul.ac.uk/maths
Students’ Union
All Queen Mary students automatically become a member of QMSU, an active and flourishing Students’ Union run by students for students. QMSU is best known for its clubs and societies, which provide a great opportunity for meeting people - especially those who are studying a different subject to you. One of the aims of QMSU is to ensure that your time at university is not just about work, but also includes socialising and personal development. To find out more, go to qmsu.org Sports and Fitness QMotion is Queen Mary’s Health and Fitness centre. Equipped with a great range of exercise machines and weights, there is also a women-only gym and a number of exercise classes. There is a squash court and sports hall on campus, and a swimming pool a short distance away. Playing sports is a good way to relax after a day spent studying. Our sports teams regularly compete against other university teams, and there’s a great social scene with after-match drinks and a regular social night, Hail Mary, which is hosted by a different sports team each month. Find out more about QMotion and sports teams on the QMSU website: qmsu.org
Volunteering Volunteering with charities and non-profit organisations is a brilliant way to explore what London has to offer, make a difference and really get involved in your local area. You can do anything from mentoring school students, to volunteering in local hospitals, to becoming a helpline volunteer or managing a local sports team. See: qmsu.org/volunteering Health services Health services are provided for all students living in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. For more information see: studenthealth.qmul.ac.uk Advice and counselling Our advice service offers in-depth and specialist advice on a range of financial, practical and legal issues such as student finance, housing rights, immigration law and international student issues. Counselling is also available. Our Advice and Counselling service is completely free and confidential. For more information see: welfare.qmul.ac.uk
“It’s such a unique experience studying at a campus university in the middle of a capital city! Living and studying on campus is incredibly convenient and enjoyable.” Ollie Garland, BSc Mathematics 2020
qmul.ac.uk/maths 39
Our accommodation
Set alongside the historic Regent’s Canal, our self-contained, residential Mile End campus is one of the largest in the capital. Mile End campus is the home of our Student Village and this, along with our other halls, offers around 2,000 spaces for both undergraduates and postgraduates. Our campus provides students with a safe and peaceful space to relax, study and socialise. As well as accommodation, lecture theatres and an extensive 24-hour library, we have shops, restaurants, a bar, gym, and a bank all on site. If you come from outside Greater London, we can guarantee you accommodation if you meet certain criteria. All of our accommodation is in self-catered flats and maisonettes. For virtual tours and full details of the accommodation options, including prices, visit: residences.qmul.ac.uk How to apply for accommodation The Admissions Office will send you full details on how to apply for accommodation once you have firmly accepted an offer to study here.
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What is my accommodation likely to cost? As a guideline, for the academic year 2017/18, rents for single rooms on our Mile End campus ranged from £129–£193 per week, including all utility costs and Wi-Fi. We review our rents annually. Current prices can be found at: residences.qmul.ac.uk/ college/fees
First-year accommodation guaranteed for all undergraduates who meet our eligibility criteria Alternative housing options There are lots of options for students who don’t live on campus. Our Residential Services team can help you to find suitable alternative housing options in the local area, which are plentiful. For more information, eligibility criteria and application deadlines, visit: residences.qmul.ac.uk
qmul.ac.uk/maths 41
Mile End campus Mile End Campus
For more detailed campus information, see: qmul.ac.uk/about/howtofindus Educational/Research
Residential
Facilities
Information
ArtsOne
37
Albert Stern Cottages
3
Advice and Counselling Service
27
ArtsTwo
35
Albert Stern House
1
Bookshop
22
Arts Research Centre
39
Beaumont Court
53
Canalside
63
Bancroft Building
31
Chapman House
43
Careers Centre
19
Chesney House
45
Clock Tower
20
Creed Court
57
CopyShop
56
France House
55
The Curve
47
Feilden House
46
Disability and Dyslexia Service
31
Hatton House
40
Bancroft Road Teaching Rooms
10
Peter Landin Building (Computer Science)
6
Engineering Building
15
G.E. Fogg Building
13
G.O. Jones Building
25
Geography
26
Graduate Centre
18
Informatics Teaching Laboratories
5
Lindop House
21
Lodge House
50
Lynden House
59
Maurice Court
58
Maynard House
44
Pooley House
60
Selincourt House
51
Varey House
49
AREA
Ground Café
33
The Hive
24
Housing Hub
48
IT Services
19
Mucci’s
29
Occupational Health Service/ Student Health Service
28
Joseph Priestley Building
41
Library
32
Law
36
Lock-keeper’s Cottage
42
Occupational Health and Safety Directorate
12
Qmotion Health and Fitness Centre Sports Hall 7
People’s Palace/Great Hall
16
Santander Bank
Queens’ Building
19
Security
Scape Building
64
Temporary Building
61
Building construction site
4
Bancroft Road
Key Library/bookshop Fitness centre
17
Portering and Postal Services
14
Building closed for major refurbishment
These premises are alarmed and monitored by CCTV; please call Security on +44 (0)20 7882 5000 for more information.
19a
Octagon
The smoking of cigarettes or tobacco products are only permitted at designated smoking areas / shelters indicated on this map. Electronic cigarettes permitted on outside spaces only.
8
Drapers’ Bar and Kitchen
2
Ifor Evans Place
Visitors who require further information or assistance should please go to the main reception in the Queens’ Building.
Refreshment: Bar/Eatery/Coffee place Staff car park
62 38/54
Bicycle parking
St Benet’s Chaplaincy
23
Bicycle lockers
Student Enquiry Centre
19
Students’ Union Hub
34
Union Shop
9
Village Shop
52
Westfield Nursery
11
Cash machine AREA
Smoking area / shelter
Bradwell Street 60
Portelet Road
Massingham St
Leatherdale Street
Moody Street Longnor Road
59 58
55
57
Holton Street
63 62 AREA
Bancroft Road
Grantley Street
Carlton Square
55 54
53
Mile End Hospital
52 51
48
Alderney Road
49
46
17
13
46
56 19a AREA
Library Square
BL
6
7
8
Nuevo Burial Ground
10 18
Godward Square
9
14
2 4 1
2
Stepney Green Tube Station
15
AREA
Bancroft Road
Mile End Place
5 3
19
41
BL
44 43
42
AREA
Arts Quarter
15
40
33
16 24 15
23
22
34
35
36
37 38
20
39
East Gate
Mile End Tube Station
Mile End Road Harford St
42 qmul.ac.uk/maths
32
25
45
The Curve
Westfield Way
11
47
31 29
26
61 12
28
Regent’s Canal
50
27 Geography Square
21 64
Accessible formats Any section of this publication is available upon request in accessible formats (large print, audio, etc). For further information and assistance, please contact: designandbranding@qmul.ac.uk Terms and conditions Changes to our programmes Queen Mary will aim to deliver your programme so that it closely matches the way in which it has been described to you by Queen Mary in print, online, and/or in person. However, it is important to realise that in some circumstances we may change aspects of your programme. For example, staff changes, resource limitations and factors such as a change in the law or the level of demand for a particular programme or module may result in Queen Mary having to withdraw or change aspects of the programmes and/or student services described in this prospectus. In the unlikely event that we discontinue a programme of study, or change it significantly before it begins, we will inform applicants holding an offer of a place at the earliest opportunity and will endeavour to offer a suitable alternative programme at Queen Mary. We will also ensure that these changes are reflected on our website as soon as possible.
Accuracy of information in this prospectus Queen Mary has made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided in this prospectus is both helpful and accurate at the time of going to press. However, this information is subject to change over time. For this reason, it is important that you check the website for the most up-to-date information (qmul.ac.uk) or contact us using the details contained within the document. Applicants are strongly advised to check the Queen Mary Course Finder for up-to-date entry requirements before submitting their UCAS application: qmul. ac.uk/undergraduate/coursefinder
Read our terms and conditions in full at: qmul.ac.uk/prospective/termsandconditions
qmul.ac.uk/maths 43
For further information contact:
The School of Engineering and Materials Science School of Mathematical Sciences Queen Mary University of London Mile Mile End End Road, London E1 4NS 327 Road E1 4NS 8735 Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5440 sems-pgadmissions@qmul.ac.uk email: maths@qmul.ac.uk maths@qmul.ac.uk @QMULMaths Further information is available at: maths.qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate
This booklet has been printed on environmentally friendly material from well-managed sources.
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