Mathematics and Music | The University of Edinburgh

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Course summary

Mathematics has often been considered an arts subject, with many studying it for the beauty of the subject. Likewise, although a very creative subject, music has many links to mathematics and can be studied as a scientific subject.

On this joint honours programme, you will study elements of mathematics and music and explore the historical connection between these two disciplines. You will split your time evenly between the two subjects over the entire programme.

Areas of study

You will take compulsory mathematics courses, and study the theoretical and cultural aspects of music, such as:

listening and musicianship
music technology
composition

Later in the programme, you can choose to:

specialise in particular aspects of mathematics
specialise in particular aspects of music
examine the links between the two subjects
study a broad range of topics across the two subjects

Music performance

Please note that studying music performance is not possible as part of this degree. However, we strongly encourage our students to pursue performance opportunities through the University's societies and ensembles.

How to apply

Application codes

Course code:: GW13
Institution code:: E56

Open days

The University of Edinburgh - Postgraduate Discovery Day
18 Mar 2026, 09:00
Edinburgh

Historical entry grades data BETA

This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

Not available

Historical entry grades data is not currently available for The University of Edinburgh - we are working with them to try and make it available soon - learn more.

Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students

80 Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)

90 Go onto work and study

The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.