Mathematics with a Professional Placement Year

The Mathematics with Professional Placement Year MMath is an exciting and challenging degree that will give you the skills to think logically, solve complex problems, explore the beauty and power of mathematics, and gain a broader and deeper understanding of mathematics, alongside gaining real-world experience for a year in a paid mathematician or statistician role.

You’ll build a strong foundation in core areas like calculus, algebra, and statistics, while having the freedom to explore topics such as operational research, mathematical modelling, mathematical analysis, and more. Along the way, you’ll develop valuable analytical, computational, and problem-solving skills that are highly sought after in industries like finance, technology, engineering, education, and research.

You’ll also develop skills in computer programming, working with others, and communicating your work in different ways to a variety of audiences. Whether you’re fascinated by abstract theory or eager to apply maths to real-world challenges, this degree prepares you to pursue exciting opportunities in a wide range of fields.

The MMath degree expands on the BSc Mathematics to prepare you for high-level entry into relevant professions. It’s also a solid base for pursuing a research career. In your final year of study you will have the opportunity to expand your mathematical knowledge further, alongside completing a major piece of project work, such as:
• a survey of an existing area of mathematical theory not covered in taught modules
• an introductory research project
• the development of a piece of mathematical software

Not only will you explore a research topic of your choice, but you will also develop the crucial professional skills that graduate employers are looking for including independence and the ability to communicate information clearly.

This five-year version of the degree includes a year of paid work in a mathematician and/or statistician role during year four. You will return to Cardiff following the successful completion of your work placement at the start of the autumn semester ready for your final year of studies.

In a competitive graduate job market, a placement can help you gain extra skills and experience to make you stand out from the crowd. It could help you secure a permanent role after you graduate, as well as providing real-world context to support your studies. If you're not sure what career path to follow, it's a great opportunity to explore your options and might even help you make those all-important decisions about your future.

Our students have completed exciting placements at organisations including HM Revenue & Customs, the Ministry of Defence, Nationwide, BAE Systems and Lloyds Bank.

Distinctive Features of the Programme

Discover the power of mathematical thinking
Explore the beauty and power of mathematics, and develop the skills to think logically and solve complex problems.

Master's level final year
Get advanced mathematical expertise and professional skills through a final-year project tailored to your interests.

Experience a year in industry
Benefit from our strong links with industrial partners around the UK with a professional placement year.

Excellent facilities
Our purpose-built building offers flexible and creative workspaces, innovative teaching areas, communal study spaces and a simulated Trading Room.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Mathematics and its Applications, Institute of