Mathematics

Course summary

Mathematics facilitates the application of logic with the language of science. Describing the real world in terms of numbers, patterns and algebra enables us to identify fundamental rules and use them to predict & optimise situations for our benefit. Students cover statistics and mechanics as part of the applied maths section of the course, describing populations, finding probabilities and modelling moving bodies. The University of Oxford’s 2020 prospectus mentions ‘math’ 369 times, The University of Nottingham 331. Mathematics A-Level is a requirement for an Economics degree, when Economics A-level is not. Mathematics is intrinsically rewarding, and achieving a correct solution can give a sense of perfection and satisfaction unrivalled in academia. The greater the challenge, the greater the reward when we find the solution. Yet for all its uses, there is beauty in mathematics. Much of catalogue of knowledge we call maths was pursued long before its usefulness became apparent; such is the realm of the Pure mathematician. The most important question to ask is, do you enjoy mathematics?