Mathematics

Develop your advanced research skills with our MMath Mathematics course. Gain fundamental mathematical knowledge, tailor your degree to your interests and complete a major research project in your final year.

This four-year MMath Mathematics course will give you the skills, knowledge and research experience needed to solve complex problems in a logical and analytical way.

In your first year you’ll focus on fundamental mathematical concepts. You’ll cover essential topics such as calculus, algebra, modelling and data science. You’ll hone your problem solving abilities, develop programming skills using Python and R, and learn to present your work as a professional mathematician using LaTeX.

In your second year you’ll develop your skill set further. In addition to core modules, you’ll have the chance to explore the areas of mathematics that are important to you, through optional modules covering topics such as algebraic structures, special relativity and stochastic modelling.

The third year of your degree is yours to shape through either a pure mathematics, applied mathematics, or probability and statistics pathway. You can choose to complement or replace one of these pathways with our mathematics and statistics project and skills module. You’ll also have the opportunity to choose from a range of optional modules, such as machine learning or number theory and cryptography.

In your fourth year, you’ll have the freedom to tailor your degree to your interests and aspirations through more in-depth optional modules. Choosing from topics such as medical statistics, financial mathematics and algebraic topology, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a variety of careers.

You’ll also gain valuable independent research experience by spending a large part of your final year investigating a real-world or pure maths problem of your choice, working alongside an active researcher who is an expert in your chosen area. You’ll develop valuable project planning, problem solving and software skills. You’ll also learn how to present mathematical, statistical and technical information and gain experience communicating your findings verbally and in writing.

Why study this course?

• Top 10 in the UK for mathematics - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

• 1st in the Russell Group for academic support and assessment and feedback in mathematics - National Student Survey 2025

• Opt to spend a full year on a work placement - Test out a career path, build up your CV and grow your network of contacts.

• Summer research placements - Gain paid research experience through the Sheffield Undergraduate Research Experience or Undergraduate Research Internship schemes.