Mathematics and Philosophy (Placement Year)

Uncover the fundamental workings of the universe and develop a high-level of reasoning through our exciting and challenging programme with a placement year. While studying mathematics and philosophy, you will gain a wealth of skills, knowledge and experience which you will have the chance to apply whilst working full-time in industries from the public and private sectors.

Maths and philosophy are both difficult to concisely define, but at their core, they are concerned with the underlying workings and meaning of the universe. Maths is the study of change, patterns, quantities, structures and space, while philosophy is concerned with fundamental problems in topics such as knowledge and reason.

Over the three years, you will be able to draw on expertise from two specialist departments: Mathematics and Statistics; and Politics, Philosophy and Religion. This is an engaging programme of study and our reputation for excellence in research means that we are able to offer high-quality teaching delivered by academics who are leaders in their field.

In Year 1, you will build on your previous knowledge and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts. Modules cover a wide range of topics from calculus, probability and statistics to logic, proofs and theorems. As well as developing your technical knowledge and mathematical skills, you will also enhance your data analysis, problem-solving and quantitative reasoning skills. Our ‘Introduction to Philosophy‘ module provides the key themes in the study of philosophy. Consciously drawing on a broad range of philosophical traditions -- Continental, Analytic, and non-Western -- it aims to present a comprehensive overview of various theoretical sub-disciplines within philosophy, but also to equip you with the ability to reason and think clearly about the most fundamental questions of human existence.

In the second year, you will further develop your knowledge in complex and real analysis, and abstract and linear algebra. These highly analytical topics will complement your study of philosophy, which will really begin to expand and develop this year. You will be able to choose from a range of philosophy modules which will allow you to build a solid repertoire of philosophy knowledge and analytical skills.

To prepare you for your work placement, our Careers and Placements Team will provide advice and guidance on the skills required to create effective CVs, cover letters and applications; tips and techniques on how to make an impact at interviews and assessment centres; how to create a relevant digital profile; and how to research employers and career sectors of interest.

In third year you will undertake a 12 month placement which will allow you to apply the knowledge and skills that you’ve learnt in Years 1 and 2, and to gain invaluable experience which will make you highly employable when you graduate.

The University will use all reasonable effort to support you to find a suitable placement for your studies. While a placement role may not be available in a field or organisation that is directly related to your academic studies or career aspirations, all placement roles offer valuable experience of working at a graduate level and gaining a range of professional skills. If you are unsuccessful in securing a suitable placement for your third year, you will be able to transfer to the equivalent non-placement degree scheme and continue with your studies at Lancaster, finishing your degree after your third year.

Returning to Lancaster, your final year offers you the chance to choose from a wide range of specialist modules, allowing you to develop the programme further to suit your interests and guide you to a specific career pathway.