Introduction
Mathematics allows you to study a major universal language we all use that you can combine with Gaelic language studies.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- BSc
- Duration
- 48 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time
- Start Month
- September
- UCAS Code
- G1Q5
Mathematics is a powerful universal language used to describe situations in abstract terms. At the heart of manipulation with abstract mathematical objects are precision, logical thinking and reasoning skills. Studying and doing mathematics requires a high level of communication skills. Employers highly value these skills and the subsequent versatility of our graduates.
The Gaelic Studies aspect of the degree programme can be studied at beginner, intermediate or advanced level to suit.
Both the MA and BSc Mathematics degrees study the same core maths courses. The difference comes in the choices that students can make through their optional courses.
What You'll Study
- Year 1
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Compulsory Courses
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD1002)
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This course, which is prescribed for level 1 undergraduate students (and articulating students who are in their first year at the University), is studied entirely online, takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across a number of weeks.
Topics include orientation overview, equality and diversity, health, safety and cyber security and how to make the most of your time at university in relation to careers and employability.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Enhanced Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
- Calculus 1 (MA1005)
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15 Credit Points
Calculus is the mathematical study of change, and is used in many areas of mathematics, science, and the commercial world. This course covers differentiation, limits, finding maximum and minimum values, and continuity. There may well be some overlap with school mathematics, but the course is brisk and will go a long way quickly.
- Algebra (MA1006)
-
15 Credit Points
This course introduces the concepts of complex numbers, matrices and other basic notions of linear algebra over the real and complex numbers. This provides the necessary mathematical background for further study in mathematics, physics, computing science, chemistry and engineering.
- Calculus II (MA1508)
-
15 Credit Points
The aim of the course is to provide an introduction to Integral Calculus and the theory of sequences and series, to discuss their applications to the theory of functions, and to give an introduction to the theory of functions of several variables.
This provides the necessary mathematical background for further study in mathematics, physics, computing science, chemistry and engineering.
- Set Theory (MA1511)
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15 Credit Points
Set theory was introduced by Cantor in 1872, who was attempting to understand the concept of "infinity" which defied the mathematical world since the Greeks. Set Theory is fundamental to modern mathematics - any mathematical theory must be formulated within the framework of set theory, or else it is deemed invalid. It is the alphabet of mathematics.
In this course we will study naive set theory. Fundamental object such as the natural numbers and the real numbers will be constructed. Structures such as partial orders and functions will be studied. And of course, we will explore infinite sets.
Optional Courses
Select one of the following options:
Beginners
- Gaelic for Beginners 1A (GH1007)
- Gaelic for Beginners 1B (GH1507)
Intermediate/Advanced
- Gaelic Language 1A (GH1013)
- Gaelic Language 1B (GH1513)
Plus 30 credit points from courses of choice.
- Gaelic for Beginners 1a (GH1007)
-
15 Credit Points
This is an 11-week course in the modern Scottish Gaelic language for students who have little or no prior experience of the language, or for students with no formal qualifications in Gaelic.
You will learn Gaelic through a mixture of interactive language classes, a class which focuses on conversational skills, and a programme of homework exercises, together with self-directed learning.
By the end of the course, you will be able to speak, read, write and understand Gaelic at a basic level and you will have mastered a large working vocabulary.
- Gaelic for Beginners 1b (GH1507)
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15 Credit Points
This is an 11-week course in the modern Scottish Gaelic language for students who have completed GH1007 Gaelic for Beginners 1A.
You will attend three interactive language classes and one conversation class each week, as well as undertaking self-directed learning.
By the end of the course you will be expected to have mastered a large working vocabulary and to be competent in understanding and using most of the major structures of the language.
- Gaelic Language 1a (GH1013)
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15 Credit Points
This is a Gaelic language course for students who are relatively fluent in the language already and have studied it to at least Higher in school (Higher Gaelic or Gàidhlig) or have studied it to a similar level elsewhere.
- Gaelic Language 1b (GH1513)
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15 Credit Points
This is the second-half of the first year Gaelic language course for students who are relatively fluent in the language already and have studied it to at least Higher in school (Higher Gaelic or Gàidhlig) or have studied it to a similar level elsewhere.
- Year 2
-
Compulsory Courses
- Linear Algebra i (MA2008)
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15 Credit Points
Linear algebra is the study of vector spaces and linear maps between them and it is a central subject within mathematics.
It provides foundations for almost all branches of mathematics and sciences in general. The techniques are used in engineering, physics, computer science, economics and others. For example, special relativity and quantum mechanics are formulated within the framework of linear algebra.
The two courses Linear Algebra I and II aim at providing a solid foundation of the subject.
- Analysis i (MA2009)
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15 Credit Points
Analysis provides the rigorous, foundational underpinnings of calculus. It is centred around the notion of limits: convergence within the real numbers. Related ideas, such as infinite sums (a.k.a. series) and continuity are also visited in this course.
Care is needed to properly use the delicate formal concept of limits. At the same time, limits are often intuitive, and we aim to reconcile this intuition with correct mathematical reasoning. The emphasis throughout this course is on rigorous mathematical proofs, valid reasoning, and the avoidance of fallacious arguments.
- Linear Algebra II (MA2508)
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15 Credit Points
Linear algebra is the study of vector spaces and linear maps between them and it is a central subject within mathematics.
It provides foundations for almost all branches of mathematics and sciences in general. The techniques are used in engineering, physics, computer science, economics and others. For example, special relativity and quantum mechanics are formulated within the framework of linear algebra.
The two courses Linear Algebra I and II aim at providing a solid foundation of the subject.
- Analysis II (MA2509)
-
15 Credit Points
Analysis provides the rigorous, foundational underpinnings of calculus. This course builds on the foundations in Analysis I, and explores the notions of differential calculus, Riemann integrability, sequences of functions, and power series.
The techniques of careful rigorous argument seen in Analysis I will be further developed. Such techniques will be applied to solve problems that would otherwise be inaccessible. As in Analysis I, the emphasis of this course is on valid mathematical proofs and correct reasoning.
Optional Courses
Select one of the following options:
Beginners
- Gaelic for Advanced Beginners 2A (GH2009)
- Gaelic for Advanced Beginners 2B (GH2509)
Intermediate/Advanced
- Gaelic Language 2A (GH2013)
- Gaelic Language 2B (GH2513)
Plus 30 credit points from courses of choice.
- Gaelic for Advanced Beginners 2a (GH2009)
-
15 Credit Points
This is the second year Gaelic language course for people who started learning in their first year. It builds on the foundations already set in the first year and continues to develop vocabulary, grammatical structures and idioms in both writing and speech.
- Gaelic for Advanced Beginners 2b (GH2509)
-
15 Credit Points
This course follows on from GH2009 and is for people who started learning in their first year. It continues to develop a range of linguistic competencies in written and oral language.
- Gaelic Language 2a (GH2013)
-
15 Credit Points
This is the first half of the second year Gaelic language course for students who are relatively fluent in the language already and have studied it to at least Higher in school (Higher Gaelic or Gàidhlig) or similar level. It follows on from GH1513. It continues to develop accuracy in the language and increases usage across a wider variety of domains.
- Gaelic Language 2b (GH2513)
-
15 Credit Points
This is the second half of the second year Gaelic language course for students who are relatively fluent in the language already and have studied it to at least Higher in school (Higher Gaelic or Gàidhlig) or similar level. It follows on from GH2013.
- Year 3
-
Compulsory Courses
- Group Theory (MX3020)
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15 Credit Points
Group theory concerns the study of symmetry. The course begins with the group axioms, which provide an abstract setting for the study of symmetry. We proceed to study subgroups, normal subgroups, and group actions in various guises. Group homomorphisms are introduced and the related isomorphism theorems are proved. Sylow p-subgroups are introduced and the three Sylow theorems are proved. Throughout symmetric groups are consulted as a source of examples.
- Analysis III (MX3035)
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15 Credit Points
Analysis provides the rigourous, foundational underpinnings of calculus. The focus of this course is multivariable analysis, building on the single-variable theory from MA2009 Analysis I and MA2509 Analysis II. Concepts and results around multivariable differentiation are comprehensively established, laying the ground for multivariable integration in MX3535 Analysis IV.As in Analysis I and II, abstract reasoning and proof-authoring are key skills emphasised in this course.
- Metric and Topological Spaces (MX3036)
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15 Credit Points
The aim of the course is to introduce the basic concepts of metric spaces and their associated topology, and to apply the ideas to Euclidean space and other examples.
An excellent introduction to "serious mathematics" based on the usual geometry of the n dimensional spaces.
- Analysis Iv (MX3535)
-
15 Credit Points
Analysis provides the rigourous, foundational underpinnings of calculus. This course builds on MX3035 Analysis III, continuing the development of multivariable calculus, with a focus on multivariable integration. Hilbert spaces (infinite dimensional Euclidean spaces) are also introduced. Students will see the benefit of having acquired the formal reasoning skills developed in Analysis I, II, and III, as it enables them to work with increasingly abstract concepts and deep results. Techniques of rigourous argumentation continue to be a prominent part of the course.
- Rings & Fields (MX3531)
-
15 Credit Points
Many examples of rings will be familiar before entering this course. Examples include the integers modulo n, the complex numbers and n-by-n matrices with real entries. The course develops from the fundamental definition of ring to study particular classes of rings and how they relate to each other. We also encounter generalisations of familiar concepts, such as what is means for a polynomial to be prime.
- Differential Equations (MX3536)
-
15 Credit Points
Differential equations play a prominent role in many disciplines including engineering, physics, economics, and biology. In this course we will study the concept of a differential equation systematically from a purely mathematical viewpoint. Such abstraction is fundamental to the understanding of this concept.
Optional Courses
Non-Honours:
- Gaelic Language (Non Honours) (GH3021)
Honours:
- Gaelic Language A (GH3022)
- Gaelic Language (Non Honours) (GH3021)
-
30 Credit Points
A level 3 Gaelic language class for students not taking Honours in Gaelic. The course is topic based and will enable students to deal with a large range of subjects in Gaelic. The course also develops students' generic writing and oral skills. The course runs over both semesters.
- Gaelic Language A (GH3022)
-
30 Credit Points
A level three Gaelic language course for students taking honours Gaelic. The course runs over both semesters and is topic based, enabling students to develop their ability to deal with a large range of subjects in Gaelic. The course also develops students' generic writing and oral skills.
- Year 4
-
Compulsory Courses
- Project (MX4023)
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15 Credit Points
The 4th year project is a good opportunity to do some research in an area of mathematics which is not covered in any other course. A choice of project topics will be made available to students before the start of the semester. Students will be expected to have regular meetings with their project supervisor. A written report should be submitted at the end of the course, with a presentation taking place shortly afterwards. Students should be able to demonstrate in the project that they have a good understanding of the topic they covered, often through working out examples.
- Galois Theory (MX4082)
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15 Credit Points
Galois theory is based around a simple but ingenious idea: that we can study field extensions by instead studying the structure of certain groups associated to them. This idea can be employed to solve some problems which confounded mathematicians for centuries, including the impossibility of trisecting an angle with ruler and compass alone, and the insolubility of the general quintic equation.
- Complex Analysis (MX4557)
-
15 Credit Points
This course asks what happens when concepts such as convergence of sequences and series, continuity and differentiability, are applied in the complex plane? The results are much more beautiful, and often, surprisingly, simpler, than over the real numbers. This course also covers contour integration of complex functions, which has important applications in Physics and Engineering.
Optional Courses
Select 45 credit points from level 4 Mathematical Sciences (MX) courses, plus 30 credit points from courses of choice, including those from Gaelic Studies (GH).
A graduating curriculum for the Honours programme must include 90 credit points from Level 4 courses.
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
How You'll Study
Learning Methods
- Individual Projects
- Lectures
- Research
- Tutorials
Assessment Methods
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:
- Coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course.
- Practical assessments of the skills and competencies they learn on the course.
- Written examinations at the end of each course.
The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, years of study and individual courses.
Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
Why Study Mathematics with Gaelic?
Why Gaelic Studies
- A warm welcome for students whatever your level of Gaelic, and long-standing experience in teaching this fascinating language to complete beginners.
- Student-run Celtic Society famous for its musical events, ceilidhs and trips, and a great opportunity to use Gaelic in an informal, social context.
- Strong tradition of commitment to Gaelic, and a University Gaelic Language Plan to promote and develop Gaelic in the University in line with the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005.
- The spectacular, award-winning Sir Duncan Rice Library, with an extensive Gaelic collection and treasures.
- An opportunity to study abroad at the University College Cork.
Why Mathematics
- We offer a challenging syllabus that reflects our specialist expertise and emphasises reasoning, rigour and the argumentative side of mathematics as well the high levels of communication skills in demand by employers.
- Our graduates are highly employable, with many going on to pursue careers in business and banking, as well as the science and tech sector, particularly as actuaries, data scientists, economists or market analysts.
- We offer excellent student experience delivered by enthusiastic staff combined with small class sizes, approximately 25 or less in the Honours years.
- We offer a range of choices with your degree programme, across both the sciences (BSc) and the Arts (MA). You can focus your attention entirely on Mathematics or you can spread your interests to combine it with other subjects.
- We offer attractive joint degrees with Economics, Physics and other disciplines, including languages.
- The department run a number of key events and seminars throughout the year, giving you the chance to network with students and academics.
- Interactions with applied maths are fostered through our involvement in the Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics, comprised of the Department of Mathematics together with the Institute for Complex Systems and Mathematical Biology.
- 98.3% of Aberdeen's Mathematics research ranks as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021)
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
The University of Aberdeen is delighted to offer eligible self-funded international on-campus undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for every year of their programme.
View the Aberdeen Global ScholarshipEntry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
General Entry Requirements
- 2024 Entry
-
SQA Highers
Standard: AABB*
Applicants who have achieved AABB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.
Minimum: BBB*
Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.
Adjusted: BB*
Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening access criteria are are guaranteed a conditional offer. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.
* Including good performance in Mathematics and one other Science subject by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBB*
Minimum: BBC*
Adjusted: CCC*
* Including good performance in Mathematics and one other Science subject by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
International Baccalaureate
32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL*.
* Including good performance in Mathematics and one other Science subject by the end of your senior phase of education.
Irish Leaving Certificate
5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3 OR AAABB*, obtained in a single sitting. (B must be at B2 or above)
* Including good performance in Mathematics and one other Science subject by the end of your senior phase of education.
- 2025 Entry
-
SQA Highers
Standard: BBBB*
Applicants who have achieved BBBB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.
Minimum: BBC
Applicants who have achieved BBC at Higher and meet one of the widening participation criteria above are encouraged to apply and are guaranteed an unconditional offer for MA, BSc and BEng degrees.
Adjusted: BB
Applicants who have achieved BB at Higher, and who meet one of the widening participation criteria above are encouraged to apply and are guaranteed an adjusted conditional offer for MA, BSc and BEng degrees.
We would expect to issue a conditional offer asking for one additional C grade at Higher.
Foundation Apprenticeship: One FA is equivalent to a Higher at A. It cannot replace any required subjects.
* Including good performance in Mathematics and one other Science subject by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBC*
Minimum: BCC*
Adjusted: CCC*
* Including good performance in Mathematics and one other Science subject by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
International Baccalaureate
32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL*.
* Including good performance in Mathematics and one other Science subject by the end of your senior phase of education.
Irish Leaving Certificate
5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3*, obtained in a single sitting. (B must be at B2 or above)
* Including good performance in Mathematics and one other Science subject by the end of your senior phase of education.
The information displayed in this section shows a shortened summary of our entry requirements. For more information, or for full entry requirements for Sciences degrees, see our detailed entry requirements section.
English Language Requirements
To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.0 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 78 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 59 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Fees and Funding
You will be classified as one of the fee categories below.
| Fee category | Cost |
|---|---|
| RUK | £9,250 |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year | |
| EU / International students | £24,800 |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year | |
| Home Students | £1,820 |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year |
Additional Fees
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our Tuition Fees page.
Scholarships and Funding
UK Scholarship
Students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who pay tuition fees may be eligible for specific scholarships allowing them to receive additional funding. These are designed to provide assistance to help students support themselves during their time at Aberdeen.
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
The University of Aberdeen is delighted to offer eligible self-funded international on-campus undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for every year of their programme. More about this funding opportunity.Funding Database
View all funding options in our Funding Database.
Careers
There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success. The Careers and Employability Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us, from first to final year – and beyond.
- More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen
- More information on the Careers and Employability Service
Our Experts
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
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Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX