Mathematics and Philosophy, BSc

Course content

A Joint Honours degree allows you to study the same core topics as students on each Single Honours course, but you'll take fewer options and discovery modules so you can fit in both subjects.

You'll spend your first year studying core modules in each subject, introducing you to key concepts and approaches in both maths and philosophy such as logic, linear algebra, calculus and moral philosophy. You'll also have the chance to choose from further optional modules or take discovery modules from across the University.

With this grounding, you'll be able to make the most of the choice on offer over the next two years. You'll be expected to maintain a balance across key areas in each subject such as the mind and knowledge, logic and metaphysics. But on top of this, you'll be able to choose from a wide range of optional modules on topics such as philosophy and technology, time series, philosophy of science, coding theory, quantum mechanics and the ethics of life and death.

Throughout the degree you'll be developing your knowledge across a variety of topics and sharpening your skills in interpretation, analysis and research. You'll bring these together in the final year, when you apply them to a topic of your choice through an independent research project.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

You'll choose from a wide range of optional modules while maintaining a balance across your subjects. Follow the links to the Programme Catalogue for more examples of optional modules and the full course structure.

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: AAB including A in Mathematics.

  • Career opportunities

    A Joint Honours degree in Mathematics and Philosophy will equip you with varied subject knowledge as well as an impressively broad set of skills, all of which is attractive to employers.

    You'll be confident interpreting both quantitative and qualitative data, and have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. You'll also be comfortable working independently or in a team and have good research skills. Crucially, you'll also be able to look at a situation from different points of view and communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing - and you'll have the organisational skills needed to manage two very different subjects.

    Graduates have pursued diverse careers as a result, covering a range of fields such as accountancy, business and finance, computing, the media, the civil service, the charity sector and education. Many others have also progressed to postgraduate study in related disciplines.

    Careers support

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    All University of Leeds students can apply to spend a year studying abroad. It's a great way to gain an insight into another culture, as well as gaining valuable experience that will look great on your CV.

    The School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science also has exclusive exchange links with universities in Denmark, France and Spain - language classes are available before you go to prepare you for the experience.

    Read more about Study abroad in Philosophy, Religion and History of Science

    Work placements

    Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

    Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.