Mathematics for Data Science BSc

Ranked no.4 in London for student satisfaction in mathematics by The Complete University Guide 2024.

Data analytics (Big Data) is a major phenomenon in the 21st century, there is an increasing demand for data analysts trained in this area who can collate, interpret and draw value from complex data sets.

This programme brings together a range of techniques that modern data analyst needs. You will study blocks in mathematics, statistics, data analysis and computing, and tackle a variety of interesting and engaging problems from business and industry. A good grounding in all these subjects is essential for creating and using algorithms and systems that identify patterns and extract value from masses of data.

The course will also develop key graduate skills such as problem-solving and communication, with a third of the credits at each level based on project-oriented work where students will develop their knowledge, professionalism and creativity in a supportive environment.

As an example, in your second year, you will be introduced to neural networks and deep learning. This important topic is at heart a powerful blend of linear algebra, nonlinear activation functions, vector calculus chain rule for gradients, and steepest descent optimisation with sampling. These fundamental building blocks will be brought together in theory and in software so that you will be able to build your own deep learning neural net, and be able to explain the function of every part of the algorithm. This last aspect of being able to explain the software’s function is key to the role of a mathematician as an understander as well as a user of methods, as opposed to just a consumer of software. The emphasis throughout will be on the practical rigour associated with getting deep learning to work.

Follow the four-year ‘Professional Placement’ degree programme and you‘ll benefit from our extensive experience in helping students to find well-paid work placements with blue-chip companies. Our sandwich students find that their mathematical and transferable skills are in demand in many sectors.

At Brunel, we aim to make your transition into the university style of learning as easy as possible. So in the first few weeks of first year you’ll start your learning in small classes, a variety of teaching styles will be introduced during this time. By second year you’ll be learning through lectures, seminars and in computer labs.

In your final year you’ll be able to select some optional modules, allowing you to pursue your interests. In this year you will also complete a Data Science Project, supported by an academic staff member, providing you with the opportunity to demonstrate the professional skills you’ve acquired throughout your studies.

This course can be studied 3 years full-time or 4 years full-time with placement, starting in September.

Career prospects for mathematicians are excellent. This course emphasises the relevant mathematical and statistical underpinning while providing the essential practical training needed to function in the workplace. Graduates from this course will possess key skills that are highly sought after by any organisations that use data analytics to make data-driven business decisions, e.g., finance, health care, logistical, manufacturing and pharmaceutical sectors, government agencies, big data processing companies, and sport.

Our combination of work experience and up-to-date teaching means that you will be well-equipped to follow the career you want after graduation.

• GCE A-level ABB-ABC, including grade A in Mathematics or Further Mathematics.
• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DDM, plus A-level Mathematics or Further Mathematics at Grade A.
• BTEC Level 3 Diploma DM in any subject with an A-level Mathematics or Further Mathematics at grade A.
• BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma D in any subject with A-levels grade AC including grade A in Mathematics or Further Mathematics.
• International Baccalaureate Diploma 30 points, including 6 in Higher Level Mathematics. GCSE English equivalent SL 5 or HL 4
• Obtain a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points in the Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3 and A-level in Mathematics or Further Mathematics grade A.
• T levels : Merit overall and grade A in A level Maths

For Brunel Mathematics with an Integrated Foundation Year requirements, see the course pages.

Five GCSEs at grade C or grade 4 and above are also required, to include Maths and English Language.

Brunel University London is committed to raising the aspirations of our applicants and students. We will fully review your UCAS application and, where we’re able to offer a place, this will be personalised to you based on your application and education journey.

Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSEs.

• IELTS: 6 (min 5.5 in all areas)
• Pearson: 59 (59 in all sub scores)
• BrunELT: 58% (min 55% in all areas)
• TOEFL: 77 (min R18, L17, S20, W17) 

The Mathematics for Data Science BSc programme uses elements of formative and summative assessment. Although both forms of assessment will be graded, only the summative assessment will count for progression for your final degree.

Our academics use formative assessment as a fundamental component in the learning process, including; class tests (both in paper and electronic format), electronic quizzes, and short written exercises. Summative assessments throughout this course consist of coursework and examinations.

We base your final degree class on your performance in second and final year. Final year carries twice the weight of second year.