Mathematics and Computer Science
Mathematics and computer science is one of the most powerful combinations available at undergraduate level, because the two disciplines are so deeply intertwined. Modern computer science is built on mathematical foundations, from the logic that underpins programming languages to the linear algebra at the heart of machine learning, the combinatorics that governs algorithm design and the probability theory that makes statistical computing possible. Studying both subjects together gives you a rigorous grounding in abstract reasoning alongside the practical ability to design, build and analyse computational systems.
At Birkbeck College this three-year full-time degree combines rigorous mathematical theory with comprehensive software development and modern computing practices, as the current description notes. You will cover calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, statistics and mathematical analysis alongside programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases and the theory of computation. Birkbeck's distinctive evening-teaching model means the degree is designed to be taken while working or managing other commitments during the day, an arrangement that can give you a significant advantage in connecting your academic learning to professional experience in real time.
The programme is based in London, giving you access to one of the world's most active technology and finance sectors.
Graduates of mathematics and computer science programmes are among the most versatile in the graduate job market. Strong quantitative and computational skills open doors in software engineering, data science, algorithmic trading, cryptography, machine learning, game development, academic research and public sector technology. The mathematical depth of the degree is particularly valued in finance and quantitative research, where the ability to model complex systems rigorously is at a premium.
Postgraduate study in mathematics, computer science, artificial intelligence, statistics or data science is a natural continuation for those who want to specialise further or pursue research careers.