Mathematics and Computer Science
This joint degree gives students a unique opportunity to combine an appreciation of Mathematics and Computer Science reasoning with an understanding of computing at Oxford University. Mathematics acts as a fundamental intellectual tool in computing helping students tackle problem-solving tasks. The course focuses on areas where mathematics and computing are closely connected emphasising the bridges between theory and practice.
Students gain opportunities to build a deeper understanding of the mathematical foundations of their subject while the course helps them acquire familiarity with the mathematics behind application areas where computers solve complex or intractable problems. This practical understanding of computers also allows mathematicians to explore the limits of computational use within their subject preparing them for advanced study and research.
Learn more about Oxford’s Computer Science courses here.
Course Overview
UCAS Code: GG14
Entry Requirements: AAA, including AA in Maths and Further Maths (or A* in Maths if Further Maths hasn’t been taken)
Course Length: 3 years for a BA, or 4 years for the MMathCompSci program
Subject Requirements
Essential Subjects: Maths
Recommended Subjects: Further Maths
Useful But Not Essential: None
Additional Requirements
Admissions Test: MAT
Written Work Submission: Not required
Admissions Insights
Percentage of Applicants Interviewed: 26%
Percentage of Successful Applicants: 8%
Annual Intake: 51 students
Applicants Successful for a Different Course: 1%
Applicants Who Applied for a Different Course: 4%
A typical week
A typical weekly timetable in Mathematics and Computer Science feels quite similar to what you might see in pure Computer Science or Mathematics. Students attend tutorials, often with just 2-4 students and a tutor, while class sizes can vary depending on the options you choose. Some sessions have around 8-15 students, but popular papers may attract even larger classes, and lectures can reach up to 120 students.
As the course progresses, there is the opportunity to undertake project work. In year two, you complete a group project, while in year four you may take on a large individual project or even a dissertation. During this time studying, you also learn from leading maths and computer science specialists and researchers. To find out more about how the teaching year is structured, you can visit the Academic Year page for details.
Course structure
The Mathematics and Computer Science course at Oxford University can be studied for three years to gain a BA degree or extended to four years for the Master of Mathematics and Computer Science (MMathCompSci). Students initially apply for the four-year course and only need to decide by the end of their third year if they wish to continue into part C. To progress into the fourth year, they must achieve a 2:1 or higher classification at the end of the third year.
Explore the Computer Science and Philosophy program here.
Year 1 – Course Structure
In the first year, students divide their studies equally between Core Mathematics and Core Computer Science. Each area introduces essential skills that form the foundation for future academic progress.
| Course Area | Modules |
|---|---|
| Core Mathematics (50%) |
- Analysis - Continuous Mathematics - Groups and Group Actions - Introduction to Complex Numbers - Introduction to University-Level Mathematics - Linear Algebra - Probability |
| Core Computer Science (50%) |
- Design and Analysis of Algorithms - Functional Programming - Introduction to Proof Systems - Imperative Programming |
| Assessment | Five written exam papers covering both mathematics and computer science |
Year 2 – Course Structure
In the second year, students continue building on their foundation with a mix of core mathematics, core computer science, and a wide range of optional modules that allow them to explore specialist areas in greater depth.
| Course Area | Modules |
|---|---|
| Core Computer Science (25%) |
- Algorithms and Data Structures - Group Design Practical - Models of Computation |
| Core Mathematics (30%) |
- Complex Analysis - Linear Algebra - Metric Spaces |
| Options in Mathematics (20%) |
- Numerical Analysis - Quantum Theory - Topology |
| Options in Computer Science (25%) |
- Artificial Intelligence - Computer Architecture - Computer Graphics - Databases - Logic and Proof - Quantum Information |
| Assessment | Students are assessed through a combination of written exams and practical coursework, depending on their chosen modules. |
Year 3 – Course Structure
By the third year, students have greater flexibility to specialize in areas of mathematics and computer science that match their interests. The program offers a wide variety of optional modules that support advanced learning and research preparation.
| Course Area | Modules (Options) |
|---|---|
| Mathematics |
- Commutative Algebra - Galois Theory - Graph Theory - Information Theory - Set Theory - Topology and Groups |
| Computer Science |
- Artificial Intelligence - Computational Complexity - Computer-Aided Formal Verification - Computer Graphics - Computer Security - Geometric Modelling - Lambda Calculus and Types - Machine Learning - Quantum Information |
| Assessment | Assessment in Year 3 is based on a combination of written examinations and coursework, depending on the chosen options. |
Year 4 – Course Structure
In the final year, students focus on advanced topics in both mathematics and computer science. They have the flexibility to choose from a wide variety of optional modules, enabling them to specialize in areas that match their interests and career goals. Assessment typically includes written or take-home exams alongside a dissertation or major project, offering practical research experience.
| Course Area | Modules (Options) | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics |
- Algebraic Geometry - Analytic Number Theory - Category Theory - Elliptic Curves - Lie Groups - Model Theory - Probabilistic Combinatorics |
Written or take-home exams combined with a dissertation or major project. |
| Computer Science |
- Advanced Security - Automata, Logic and Games - Categories, Proofs and Processes - Concurrent Algorithms and Data Structures - Computational Biology - Computational Game Theory - Computational Learning Theory - Database Systems Implementation - Foundation of Self-Programming Agents - Geometric Deep Learning - Graph Representational Learning - Probabilistic Model Checking - Quantum Software |
The courses outlined above are for guidance only and may be updated. For the most up-to-date list of available modules, please visit the official Computer Science website.
Please note that course content and structure may be subject to change. For detailed information on possible updates, refer to the course’s official guidance.
Academic Requirements
The following outlines the typical academic qualifications required for entry. All grades are considered in the context in which they were achieved. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official Computer Science website.
| Qualification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| A-levels | A*AA (if Further Mathematics is taken, then including A*A between Mathematics and Further Mathematics; otherwise including A* in Mathematics) |
| Advanced Highers | AA/AAB |
| International Baccalaureate (IB) | 39 points (including core points) with 766 at Higher Level; the 7 must be in Higher Level Mathematics |
| BTEC | Please visit the Computer Science website for the latest information on standard offers for students taking BTECs |
| Other Equivalent Qualifications | View information on other UK and international qualifications. Grades are considered in context wherever possible. |
Subject Requirements
The following outlines the expected subject knowledge for applicants. Requirements ensure students are well-prepared for rigorous study in mathematics and computer science.
| Requirement Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Essential |
- Mathematics is required at A-level (Grade A or A*), Advanced Higher (Grade A), Higher Level IB (score 7), or an equivalent qualification. - Candidates taking Further Mathematics A-level or AS-level must achieve at least Grade A. |
| Recommended |
- Further Mathematics is highly recommended. - If any science A-level used to meet your offer includes a practical component, passing the practical is expected. - Applicants whose first language is not English may also need to meet English language requirements. |
Applying and Admissions Test
All applicants must follow the official application procedure as outlined on the Oxford University Applying pages. Specific information for this course is provided below to help you prepare and submit your application successfully.
| Admissions Test | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Name | Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT) |
| Test Dates | 22 & 23 October 2025 |
| Registration Window | 18 June – 19 September 2025 (6pm BST) |
| Booking Window | 18 August – 26 September 2025 (6pm BST) |
| Additional Information | All applicants must take the MAT as part of their application. Detailed guidance on booking your test and tips for preparation can be found on the official MAT test page. |
Written work
Applicants are not required to submit any written work as part of their application for this course.
Career
The Mathematics and Computer Science course provides training in logical thought and expression, offering strong preparation for a variety of careers. Graduates often pursue further study or secure positions in software and hardware roles, research, finance, and investment analysis, with examples including product controllers at international banks, actuarial consultants, and accountants, giving students practical insight into career pathways and professional opportunities.
Fees
For full-time Home undergraduate students, university fees are currently set at the government’s maximum cap. For 2025/26, this cap is £9,535, which is used here as a guide for courses beginning in 2026. This information will be updated once the government confirms the official course fees for full-time Home undergraduates starting in 2026. For details on potential annual fee changes, please refer to the university’s guidance on likely increases to fees and charges.
Fee status | Annual Course fees |
| Home | £9,535 |
| Overseas | £62,820 |
Oxford is committed to ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent any academically qualified student from studying here. To support this, the university provides one of the most comprehensive financial aid packages for UK students, which can be further supplemented by additional support from your college.
Living costs
Living costs at Oxford are often more manageable than expected, thanks to world-class resources and college provision that help keep expenses down. For the academic year starting in 2026, costs are estimated between £1,405 and £2,105 per month, covering three eight-week terms. Students typically spend about six months in Oxford, but budgeting over a nine-month period ensures sufficient funds for essential costs during holidays. For further guidance, you can visit the living costs webpage.
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Financial Support
This section outlines the financial support options available to students, depending on their residency status and personal circumstances.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Students |
- A tuition fee loan from the UK government covers full course fees for eligible Home students (UK, Irish nationals, and other students with UK citizens’ rights) undertaking their first undergraduate degree. - Oxford offers generous bursaries in 2026 for Home students with family incomes around £50,000 or less, with additional support for households with incomes of £32,500 or less. - The UK government provides living costs support for Home students from the UK and those with settled status who meet residency requirements. - EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals with UK citizens’ rights (pre-settled/settled status or Irish citizens under the Common Travel Area) are eligible for UK government student finance depending on residency status. - For full details, refer to the official guidance links. |
| Islands Students |
- Students from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man receive funding arrangements different from the rest of the UK. - Details can be found via the following links: States of Jersey | States of Guernsey | Isle of Man |
| Overseas Students | - For international students, funding information and scholarships can be found in the "Other Scholarships" section of Oxford’s Bursaries and Scholarships page. |
| Previous Undergraduate Study | - Students who have already completed an undergraduate degree are classed as Equivalent or Lower Qualification (ELQ) students and are not eligible for government or Oxford funding. |