Mathematics and Physics (BSc)

We normally require three A-levels, including Mathematics with grade A, however individual circumstances are taken into account. Although we do not require Further Mathematics, we view a good grade in AS-level or A2-level Further Mathematics as a strong asset in an application, which might in some circumstances compensate for a weaker performance in a non-mathematical subject.

Applicants come from a diverse range of backgrounds and we accept a broad range of qualifications in addition to A-levels. Special consideration will be given to mature applicants, and we are happy to consider applicants with QAA-approved Access to HE qualifications.

Students from overseas should visit the International| pages for further information on the entry requirements from their country and English language requirements.  Royal Holloway International offers an International Foundation Programme and English language pre-sessional courses, allowing students the opportunity to develop their study skills and English language before starting their undergraduate degree.

We make decisions based on achieved or predicted grades, personal statements and references. More information on how your application will be assessed, and tips for your personal statement can be found on our Applying| pages.

We believe in meeting with all applicants where possible, and call all suitably qualified candidates either to an Open Day or to one of our UCAS days, when there is an opportunity for an informal interview and a chance to talk to current students. Applicants unable to attend these, such as overseas students, but who otherwise qualify for admission, will usually receive our standard offer.

• Study at a Mathematics Department rated highly for ‘Overall Student Satisfaction’ each year in the National Student Survey.
• The Physics Department has an international reputation for its teaching and research.
• Benefit from a strong focus on small group teaching led by inspirational staff who are acknowledged experts in their fields with a dedicated support network, including a personal academic adviser to guide you in your studies.
• Study challenging subjects covering a varied curriculum.
• The course has a track record of producing high-achieving graduates who are well-prepared for future employment.

The mathematics element of the degree offers a variety of subjects ranging from core course units in algebra and calculus to optional units in areas such as quantum information and coding, and the mathematics of financial markets. Some course units provide the tools needed in a range of mathematical disciplines, while others apply these tools to areas of interest in real life.

Physics course units cover core areas including mechanics and relativity and electromagnetism as well as exploring the application of knowledge in solid state, quantum theory, and atomic and nuclear physics.

Throughout the course, you will:

• advance your knowledge and enhance the basic techniques of mathematics and physics first encountered at A-level
• learn to think logically and analytically
• see how mathematics and physics are applied to real-life problems.

The websites of the Department of Mathematics| and the Department of Physics| give detailed lists of the course units on offer.

Students take 24 course units at the rate of eight per year with four course units in each subject. Some course units are compulsory while others are elective thereby offering flexibility and choice. Most course units are examined by written papers in the summer term although assessment is also carried out through coursework – presentations and reports – as well as an optional final year project.

In a typical week mathemetics students will attend 12 to 14 hours of formal teaching in lectures, tutorials, problem-solving workshop session, computer classes and practical sessions in statistics and computational mathematics. There is a strong focus on small group teaching. Outside these times students are expected to work on worksheets, revision, and preparation of projects.

Most course units are examined entirely by written papers in the summer term. Statistics and Computational courses may have project components, and the first year course units have a test which contributes 10 per cent of the final mark for these courses. In the first term of the second year all students work in small groups to prepare a report and an oral presentation on a mathematical topic of their choice which contributes to one of the core subject marks. There are two optional final year courses which are examined solely by a project and presentation.

Teaching in your physics modules takes place in lectures, seminars, laboratory practical classes and problem-solving sessions. Outside class-time students participate in group projects and guided independent study and have access to the college’s comprehensive e-learning facility, ‘Moodle’ where there is a variety of resources available for students.

Assessment is usually by two-hour examination at the end of the year. Coursework and in-class tests also contribute to the assessment of many course units. Experimental work is generally assessed by written reports or oral presentation. A minimum of six of the eight course units must be passed with a minimum score of 40 per cent each year.

 

Mathematics graduates are equipped with a diverse range of transferable skills. The Department has strong links with a variety of companies and organisations, which enables it to stay in tune with current employer needs. Certain exemptions may be given by the Institute of Actuaries and other professional bodies to students who have taken appropriate course units as part of their Mathematics degree at Royal Holloway.

The careers team also holds regular sessions, specifically for Mathematics students, on summer internships, vacation employment and the careers available to them on graduation. In recent years our graduates have gained positions as statisticians, researchers and teachers and work for employers as diverse as the Department for Health and Barclays Bank.

To find out what our students are doing now, please see the Department’swebsite|.

Highly advanced numerical skills and the ability to solve a wide range of problems are among the most sought after skills in today’s competitive job market. Your knowledge of physics coupled with your analytical, numerical and technical skills will make you attractive to a wide variety of employers.

In recent years our graduates have entered many different careers including scientific research and teaching, as well as gaining jobs in computing, financial services, accountancy and defence solutions.  Visit the department’swebsite| to find out what our graduates are doing now.