Mathematics (Faster Route) BSc

University of Glasgow · honours · 4 years · UCAS 6530course page ↗

AAB – BBB at A level, BSc : A-level Mathematics. MA : A-level Mathematics and A-level Humanities subject; graduates earn a median £30,500 three years on.

Typical A level offer
AAB – BBB

BSc : A-level Mathematics. MA : A-level Mathematics and A-level Humanities subject · 92% of entrants came with A levels · 86% stay on after year 1 · Glasgow course page, Discover Uni

Year 13 · applying

What do you need to get in?

AAB – BBBtypical A level offer

Typical offer — the grades most applicants are asked for. A contextual offer can be lower for applicants from under-represented backgrounds; none is published for this course.

Glasgow course page, read 19 September 2026 · Discover Uni entry profile

  1. 1BSc : A-level Mathematics. MA : A-level Mathematics and A-level Humanities subject
Who actually got in: 92% with A levels, 2% with the IB, 5% via Access courses. 47% arrived with 208 or more UCAS tariff points — roughly A*A*A or better. Based on 225 entrants.

UCAS tariff points — a points scale for grades: A* = 56, A = 48, so A*A*A = 160. Entrants’ totals include extra subjects.

Other qualifications2
QualificationTypical offerRequired subjects
Scottish HighersAAAAAminimum from S5: BBBBBSc : Higher Mathematics and a Higher Science subject at AA MA/MA (SocSci) : Higher Mathematics and a Higher Humanities subject at AA.
IB34 (6,5,5)BSc : HL Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches). MA : HL Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches) and HL Humanities subject.
Years 1–4

What do you study?

1compulsory module in year 1

Compulsory modules this year: mathematics & statistics 83% · transversal skills 11% · language & communication 6%.

Module — one course unit, usually a term or a year long; “core” means everyone takes it. One UK credit is about ten hours of study; a full year is 120 credits.

Glasgow course page · optional modules vary by year

Year 1 · 1 core · 40 credits ≈ 400 hours
  • Mathematics 1
    What you learn (18)
    • communicate mathematical ideas using sets, functions, relations and groups
    • identify the components of a mathematical statement such as hypotheses and conclusions
    • construct valid proofs using direct argument, induction, contradiction or counterexample
    • solve equations and inequalities across number systems and geometric settings
    • solve differential equations using algebraic and calculus techniques
    • define groups and subgroups and recognise their properties
    • perform group operations using cycle notation for permutation groups
    • calculate the order of groups and elements using Lagrange's theorem
    • derive derivatives and integrals from first principles using limits
    • relate differentiation and integration through the fundamental theorem of calculus
    • compute derivatives of scalar and vector functions using standard rules
    • compute integrals using substitution, parts and other standard methods
    • apply calculus techniques to solve optimisation and geometric measurement problems
    • perform matrix and vector operations in three-dimensional space
    • model real-world problems using mathematical tools and interpret the solutions
    • extract key concepts and methods from independent reading of mathematical texts
    • present mathematical arguments in writing with precise notation and clear conclusions
    • collaborate with peers to discuss and solve mathematical problems
    MATHS1017 40 cr
Year 2 · 6 core · 60 credits ≈ 600 hours
  • Mathematics 2A: Multivariable Calculus
    What you learn (14)
    • sketch three-dimensional surfaces using cross-sections and contour lines
    • apply the chain rule to differentiate partial derivatives
    • determine stationary points of multivariable functions
    • apply Lagrange multipliers to solve constrained optimisation problems
    • state the definitions of divergence, gradient and curl operators
    • apply vector differential operators to solve problems
    • compute signed volume under a surface via double integration
    • determine integration limits for a given domain
    • change the order of integration and apply jacobian-based variable substitution
    • compute line integrals along curves
    • parametrise surfaces and compute surface integrals
    • apply Green's theorem to evaluate closed line integrals
    • state key mathematical definitions, results and formulae from lectures
    • apply lecture results and formulae to solve new problems
    MATHS2001 10 cr
  • Mathematics 2B: Linear Algebra
    What you learn (18)
    • state fundamental properties of matrices and their operations
    • apply matrix operations and symbolic manipulation to solve problems
    • determine whether a given set forms a vector subspace
    • determine whether a set of vectors is linearly independent
    • describe the span of a set of vectors
    • determine whether a map between vector spaces is linear
    • derive the matrix representation of a linear map for given bases
    • calculate a matrix determinant using cofactor expansion
    • prove properties of determinants under row or column operations
    • derive the characteristic polynomial of a square matrix
    • compute eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a matrix
    • apply eigenvalues and eigenvectors to solve problems
    • derive the quadratic form associated with a symmetric matrix
    • determine the rank and signature of a symmetric matrix
    • diagonalise a symmetric matrix
    • apply the Gram-Schmidt process to construct an orthonormal basis
    • state key definitions and theorems covered in the module
    • apply covered theorems and definitions to solve problems
    MATHS2004 10 cr
  • Mathematics 2C: Introduction To Real Analysis
    What you learn (15)
    • negate statements containing logical quantifiers
    • identify hypothesis and conclusion in a conditional statement
    • derive converse, contrapositive and equivalent forms of a conditional statement
    • determine whether a function is bounded or unbounded
    • prove a sequence's limit using the formal epsilon definition
    • calculate limits of sequences using algebraic and order properties
    • prove whether a sequence, including recursively defined ones, is monotonic
    • use subsequences to demonstrate that a sequence fails to converge
    • classify a sequence as convergent or divergent
    • determine continuity of a function from the formal definition
    • apply sequential criteria to show a function is discontinuous
    • state definitions and theorems covered in lectures
    • apply lecture theorems and results to solve mathematical problems
    • reproduce proofs of key results presented in lectures
    • adapt known proof techniques to novel mathematical problems
    MATHS2032 10 cr
  • Mathematics 2D: Mathematical Methods and Modelling
    What you learn (7)
    • analyse dynamical systems with one dependent variable using ODE models
    • construct phase portraits for single-variable dynamical systems
    • solve linear autonomous ODE systems using matrix exponentials
    • compute Fourier series and Fourier and Laplace transforms
    • apply transform properties to simplify and solve differential equations
    • state key definitions, results and formulae taught in the module
    • apply taught formulae and methods to solve new problems
    MATHS2033 10 cr
  • Mathematics 2E: Mechanics
    What you learn (15)
    • predict functional dependence using dimensional analysis
    • calculate tangent vectors and arc-length of parametric curves
    • sketch parametric curves
    • describe particle motion using polar, cylindrical and spherical coordinates
    • solve differential equations to determine particle motion
    • define linear momentum, impulse and force
    • apply momentum, impulse and force concepts in calculations
    • construct models of mechanical systems to predict future states
    • define energy, work and power in physical contexts
    • apply energy, work and power concepts to physical situations
    • compute projectile motion and motion under hooke's law
    • determine appropriate lagrangians for mechanical systems
    • derive and solve equations of motion using least action principle
    • state key definitions, results and formulae from lectures
    • apply lecture formulae to solve mechanics problems
    MATHS2034 10 cr
  • Mathematics 2F: Groups, Transformations and Symmetries
    What you learn (14)
    • classify a function as injective, surjective or bijective
    • construct examples illustrating each function type
    • state the formal definitions of a group and a subgroup
    • prove and apply lagrange's theorem to group problems
    • prove that conjugacy forms an equivalence relation in a group
    • apply conjugacy relations to solve group theory problems
    • produce examples of fields and determine whether a set forms a vector space
    • compute the matrix representation of a linear transformation for a fixed basis
    • relate two bases using a change of basis matrix
    • construct the symmetry group of a regular n-gon
    • state key definitions and theorems covered in the module
    • apply stated definitions and theorems to solve problems
    • prove results presented during the course
    • adapt established proof techniques to new problem situations
    MATHS2035 10 cr
Year 3 · 8 core · 120 credits ≈ 1,200 hours
  • 3H: Algebra
    What you learn (6)
    • state definitions and results from the course accurately
    • identify situations requiring application of isomorphism theorems
    • perform basic computations involving groups, rings and fields
    • illustrate algebraic concepts using concrete examples
    • reproduce key proofs from the course
    • solve unfamiliar and challenging problems in algebra
    MATHS4072 20 cr
  • 3H: Analysis of Differentiation and Integration
    What you learn (12)
    • determine with proof whether a function is differentiable
    • compute and justify the derivative of a function
    • explain the relationship between differentiability and continuity
    • explain rigorously how the derivative relates to monotonicity of a function
    • apply derivative properties to solve problems on differentiable functions
    • calculate the radius and region of convergence of a power series
    • discuss the validity of differentiating a power series term by term
    • define exponential and trigonometric functions via power series and prove their properties
    • state and prove Taylor's theorem using Lagrange and Cauchy remainder forms
    • estimate the remainder term to justify convergence of a Taylor series
    • prove key properties of integrals including the fundamental theorem of calculus
    • apply integral properties to solve mathematical problems
    MATHS4073 10 cr
  • 3H: Dynamical Systems
    What you learn (10)
    • determine fixed points of one- and two-dimensional ODE systems
    • derive the linearisation of a system about a fixed point
    • assess the stability of fixed points and distinguish hyperbolic from non-hyperbolic cases
    • determine fixed points and periodic orbits of one-dimensional iterated maps
    • evaluate the stability of orbits in iterated maps
    • calculate the lyapunov exponent for simple maps and relate it to chaotic behaviour
    • construct cobweb diagrams to illustrate stability of fixed points and periodic orbits
    • apply a lyapunov function to determine stability of a fixed point
    • investigate bifurcations in one-dimensional dynamical systems
    • draw bifurcation diagrams for one-dimensional systems
    MATHS4074 10 cr
  • 3H: Mathematical Methods
    What you learn (10)
    • classify differential equations by order, degree and linearity
    • derive series solutions for second order odes around ordinary points
    • derive series solutions for second order odes around regular singular points
    • manipulate delta functions within differential equation solutions
    • solve simple eigenvalue and boundary value problems
    • prove orthogonality of eigenfunctions
    • construct eigenfunction expansions using orthogonality properties
    • reduce second order partial differential equations to canonical form
    • derive characteristic equations of second order partial differential equations
    • solve partial differential equations using separation of variables with given conditions
    MATHS4075 20 cr
  • 3H: Methods in Complex Analysis
    What you learn (10)
    • state the Cauchy-Riemann equations and derive them from differentiability
    • determine whether a function is harmonic and find its harmonic conjugate
    • compute contour integrals of continuous functions in the complex plane
    • derive basic properties of contour integrals including the estimation lemma
    • apply the estimation lemma to bound integrals of similar functions
    • classify the type of singularity of a meromorphic function
    • calculate residues at poles of meromorphic functions
    • state the residue theorem and outline its derivation
    • define a conformal map and illustrate with examples between simple domains
    • derive properties of bilinear (Mobius) transformations
    MATHS4076 10 cr
  • 3H: Metric Space and Basic Topology
    What you learn (15)
    • determine whether a function satisfies the metric axioms
    • determine whether a subset of a metric space is open or closed
    • determine whether a map between metric spaces is continuous
    • determine whether a sequence in a metric space converges
    • determine whether a metric space is complete
    • verify that a collection of sets satisfies the topology axioms
    • determine whether two topological spaces are homeomorphic
    • define key topological properties such as compactness and connectedness
    • verify that a given topological property is preserved under homeomorphism
    • explain the construction of product and quotient topologies
    • verify that a given group forms a topological group
    • identify the orbit space resulting from a group action
    • explain the classification of surfaces
    • prove key theorems covered in the topology course
    • apply proven theorems to solve new mathematical problems
    MATHS4077 20 cr
  • 3H: Mechanics of Rigid and Deformable Bodies
    What you learn (17)
    • formulate equations of motion for particles in central force fields
    • solve for the path equation and circular orbit stability in central forces
    • apply central force methods to analyse the two-body problem
    • explain the conditions under which energy conservation applies
    • derive potential functions for conservative force fields
    • deduce particle motion characteristics using energy conservation
    • formulate equations of motion for particles in rotating reference frames
    • solve motion problems for particles in rotating reference frames
    • derive velocity and acceleration formulae in accelerating frames
    • calculate centre of mass and inertia tensor for various mass distributions
    • prove parallel and perpendicular axis theorems for the inertia tensor
    • formulate equations of motion for a rigid body under forces and torques
    • solve rigid body motion problems including rolling cylinders and precession
    • construct the Lagrangian for constrained particle and rigid body systems
    • derive the Lagrange equations from the system Lagrangian
    • derive conservation equations for mass, momentum and energy in deformable bodies
    • solve one-dimensional problems involving elastic rods, beams and fluids
    MATHS4078 20 cr
  • 3H: Writing and Presenting Mathematics
    What you learn (6)
    • prepare mathematical documents using LaTeX
    • present mathematical content orally using prepared materials
    • write mathematical material clearly and fluently
    • present mathematical material clearly and fluently
    • apply Mathematica software to solve mathematical problems
    • evaluate how mathematical software aids problem solving and insight
    MATHS4079 10 cr

“What you learn” restates each module’s published learning outcomes in our own words, as short skill statements in the same form as the GCSE and A level curriculum, with the help of an AI model; fields of knowledge follow the twelve fields of the knowledge sphere. The university’s module page, linked from each title, is the authoritative description.

After graduating

Where does it lead?

£30,500median pay three years after graduating
Lower quarter£24k
Median£31k
Upper quarter£36k

Median — the middle earner: half earned more, half less. Pay is for graduates of this subject at this university who finished in 2016-18, not adjusted for inflation; based on 90 graduates.

Discover Uni dataset (HESA and Office for Students, CC BY 4.0, contains HESA data); earnings from the Longitudinal Education Outcomes data (Department for Education) · aggregation level 13, 23

Half of graduates earned between £23,500 and £36,000. Five years on, the median is £38,000. 85% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing; 75% of those in work were in professional or managerial jobs.

All outcome figures7
MeasureValueBased on
Continue after year 114% left86%160
In work or study, 15 months on10% studying85%25
Professional or managerial job75%15
Pay 15 months on, median£30,00015
Pay 3 years on, median£30,50090
Pay 5 years on, median£38,00090
Money

What does it cost?

Fees not on file; see the university’s fees page.

Glasgow fees page

National Student Survey 2025-26

What do students say?

74%agreed the course was good overall (question 26)

NSS — a yearly survey of final-year students at every UK university; 66% of this course’s final year answered. Small groups can swing a lot year to year.

National Student Survey, via Discover Uni · 70 students answered

Highest: 95% agreed on question 3; lowest: 68% on question 24.

All questions26
QuestionAgree
Question 192%
Question 281%
Question 395%
Question 495%
Question 586%
Question 691%
Question 778%
Question 872%
Question 978%
Question 1082%
Question 1193%
Question 1282%
Question 1380%
Question 1475%
Question 1587%
Question 1682%
Question 1780%
Question 1878%
Question 1982%
Question 2086%
Question 2195%
Question 2294%
Question 2380%
Question 2468%
Question 2577%
Question 2674%

Question texts are published by the Office for Students; the dataset carries only the question numbers.

Modules, entry requirements and fees are facts read from University of Glasgow’s course page on 2026-09-19 and may change; the university’s page is authoritative. Descriptions are not reproduced. Outcome figures are from the Discover Uni dataset. University of Glasgow is a trade mark of the university; sch.today is independent of it.