This joint programme combines a foundation of pure and applied mathematics with the study of Philosophy, reflecting the complementary nature of these two disciplines to help explain our world and our place in it.
Mathematics with Philosophy at Lincoln combines two of the most fundamental and widely applicable intellectual skills. The course aims to provide students with the knowledge and ability to tackle quantifiable problems and to analyse issues and question assumptions. This enables them to develop their understanding of logic and reasoning.
Students have the opportunity to learn from and work alongside, our team of academics who can support and encourage them to apply imagination, creativity, and rigour to the solution of real-world problems. Individual and group projects during the course are designed to develop transferable skills.
How You Study
Students can focus on numerical and analytical methods of mathematics, while developing a range of transferable skills, including logical reasoning, critical thinking, communication, and teamwork. This combination is intended to help students to develop the skills to tackle a variety of topics from different angles. It seeks to help students find answers and evaluate the questions and the reasoning behind them.
In the first year, topics include algebra, calculus, ideas of mathematical proof, and an introduction to philosophical logic. In the second year, students progress to differential equations, scientific computing, and the philosophy of science. The third year provides the opportunity for students to select from a range of optional modules to tailor the degree to their own interests.
The course is taught via lectures, problem-solving classes, computer-based classes, and seminars.
Modules
First Year
Algebra (Core)
Calculus (Core)
Geometrical Optics, Waves and Mechanics (Core)
Ideas of Mathematical Proof (Core)
Introduction to Moral Philosophy (Core)
Introduction to Philosophical Logic (Core)
Linear Algebra (Core)
Probability and Statistics (Core)
Second Year
Algebraic Structures (Core)
Coding Theory (Core)
Complex Analysis (Core)
Differential Equations (Core)
Existentialism and Phenomenology (Core)
Industrial and Financial Mathematics (Core)
Philosophy of Science (Core)
Scientific Computing (Core)
Third Year
Contemporary Problems in Philosophy (Core)
Group Theory (Core)
Mathematics Project (Core)
Tensor Analysis (Core)
Fluid Dynamics (Option)†
Mathematics Pedagogy (Option)†
Methods of Mathematical Physics (Option)†
Newton's Revolution (Option)†
Numerical Methods (Option)†
† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.
Features
Research Informed
Teaching on this course is conducted by academic members of staff who are active researchers in their fields. This research informs teaching at all levels of the programme. Staff conduct cutting-edge research in fundamental and applied mathematics and physics, ranging from pure mathematics to applied nano-science at the interface between biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. The School collaborates with top research institutions in Germany, Japan, Norway, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, and the USA.
Visiting Speakers
The School of Mathematics and Physics regularly welcomes guest speakers from around the world. Recent visitors to the University of Lincoln have included former vice president of the Royal Astronomical Society Professor Don Kurtz, mathematician and author Professor Marcus du Sautoy OBE, and operations research specialist Ruth Kaufman OBE.
Placements
Students in this course are encouraged to obtain and undertake work placements independently in the UK or overseas during their studies, providing hands-on experience in the industry. These can range from a few weeks to a full year if students choose the sandwich year option. Placements may be conducted with external research institutions (which can be overseas). The option is subject to availability and selection criteria set by the industry or external institution. When undertaking optional placements, students will be required to cover their transport, accommodation, and general living costs.
Accreditations and Memberships
This programme meets the educational requirements of the Chartered Mathematician designation. This is awarded by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), when it is followed by subsequent training and experience in employment to obtain equivalent competencies to those specified by the Quality Assurance Agency for taught Master’s degrees.
Scholarships
For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships
Entry Requirements 2023-24
United Kingdom
A Level: BBC, including grade B from A Level Maths (112 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 3 A Levels or equivalent qualifications).
International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall, with Higher Level grade 5 in Maths.
Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points, including 40 points from 15 credits in Maths.
BTEC qualifications may be considered with a grade B in A Level Maths.
Please contact our Admissions team for further information (admissions@lincoln.ac.uk).
A combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTEC, EPQ, etc.
Applicants will also need at least three GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, which must include English, Maths and Science. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.
The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry. We will also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.
International
Non-UK Qualifications:
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.
EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.
Career Opportunities
Graduates may pursue careers in the fields of science, education, finance, business, consultancy, and research and development. This degree promotes skills in creative, critical, and independent thinking. It may prove beneficial in careers requiring flexibility and the ability to formulate a persuasive case. This could include careers in politics and the media, as well as the civil service, among other areas. Some graduates may choose to continue their studies at the postgraduate level.
