MMath degrees
The MMath degrees are integrated masters degrees containing the standard BSc degree and an extra year of masters-level study.
MMath programmes description
Masters degrees like MSc are commonly one-year programmes that are taken following an undergraduate degree such as BSc. An integrated masters is essentially both an undergraduate degree and masters degree rolled into one package.
If you are on MMath degrees you must have at least 120 School of Mathematics credits at level 11 over Year 4 and Year 5. You must take this into account when making your choices.
Difference between doing an MMath degree and doing a BSc followed by an MSc
An MSc is a full year programme with a 60-point project over the Summer, whereas MMath programmes fit into the usual undergraduate academic year. An important difference is that the final year of MMath is treated for fees purposes in the same way as the earlier undergraduate years of a degree. For MSc, however, fees are payable on a different scale.
MMath degrees and MA degrees
Do not confuse MMath degrees with MA degrees offered by Mathematics and other Schools in the University. MA is the traditional Scottish name for undergraduate degrees taken in arts subjects, and MA degrees have the same status as BSc degrees.
Benefits of the MMath degrees
MMath programmes are degrees you may wish to consider if you are considering a career in mathematics or one that uses advanced mathematics. It may also suit you if you would like the intellectual challenge of studying the subject beyond the standard BSc degree.
Length of MMath degrees
The MMath programmes are five-year programmes, unless direct entry to Year 2 is taken so that it can be completed in four years.
The first four years of MMath degrees are the same as BSc Mathematics. It is possible to switch between the degrees until Year 4. Please note that it is up to you to consider the implications of shortening or lengthening of your period of study by such switching. We would recommend if you are considering an MMath degree to switch to it as soon as possible, and if you are considering leaving the MMath programme for BSc you might want to delay your decision until you need to take it. It is easier to justify shortening your period of study than lengthening it!
The fifth year of the MMath degrees involves a 40-point project and the majority of the study is at Level 11.
To get a good view of all of the courses available to you in 4th and 5th year, please refer to Path.
Progression requirements
Continuing on MMath
You must average at least 60% in Year 3 to continue with the MMath programme. The final year of MMath is challenging and we do not want students to attempt it unless they are well prepared.
Transferring to MMath degrees from BSc degrees
- The requirements of MMath degrees and BSc Mathematics are nearly identical up to the end of Year 4.
- Students wishing to transfer from BSc Mathematics to MMath may do so by speaking to their Student Adviser.
- It is usually possible to transfer from BSc Applied Mathematics or Mathematics and Statistics. On combined degrees, it will likely be more difficult to transfer. In this case, you should talk to the Student Support Team.
Transferring from MMath degrees to BSc degrees
If you are on an MMath programme, you may transfer to BSc Mathematics (or MA Mathematics, if your pre-honours years qualify for that degree) at any time up until the end of Year 4. Please read the following carefully for transfers in Year 4 or Year 5.
- If you are in Year 4 and it is before the end of Semester 2 teaching, you can ask your Student Adviser about how to make the change.
- If you want to transfer after the end of Year 4 teaching you must also inform the Teaching Office so the Board of Examiners know you want to graduate this year.
- If it is too close to graduation, it might not be possible for you to graduate in that year.
- If you have started Year 5 of an MMath programme and decide you want to graduate with the BSc degree you can inform the Student Support Team who will inform you of the process.
- If you have taken any Year 5 MMath exams then the situation is more complicated and you should talk to the Student Support Team.