Mathematics and Philosophy

Mathematics and Philosophy at the University of Oxford offers students a unique opportunity to explore two profoundly interconnected disciplines at one of the world's leading universities. This degree programme is designed for inquisitive minds interested in understanding the fundamental nature of reality, reasoning, and computation through the lens of both mathematical rigor and philosophical inquiry. Throughout the course, students develop a deep appreciation for the abstract structures underlying the physical universe, as well as the conceptual frameworks that underpin human thought and language. The programme combines rigorous mathematical training with philosophical analysis, enabling students to develop critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills applicable across diverse fields.

Students begin their studies with foundational modules in pure mathematics, including calculus, algebra, and analysis, alongside introductory courses in philosophy covering logic, ethics, epistemology, and metaphysics. As the programme progresses, learners deepen their understanding of advanced mathematical topics such as topology, group theory, and mathematical logic, while also engaging with philosophical debates concerning the nature of mind, consciousness, and scientific explanation. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme encourages students to investigate questions like: How can formal systems model human reasoning? What is the nature of mathematical truth? Can machines think? These questions are explored through both mathematical frameworks and philosophical discourse, fostering a comprehensive and nuanced perspective.

The information technology and analytical skills cultivated during the course prepare graduates for diverse career paths, including academia, research, data science, artificial intelligence, logic, and ethics. The university provides access to world-class libraries, seminars, and research centres, facilitating a vibrant academic community where students can engage with leading scholars in both disciplines. Combined with tutorials, lectures, and independent research projects, the programme emphasizes critical thinking, argument construction, and evidence-based reasoning. By the end of the degree, students are equipped not only with substantive knowledge of mathematics and philosophy but also with the intellectual agility to approach complex questions from multiple perspectives. The programme aims to produce graduates who are well-prepared to contribute thoughtfully and innovatively to academic, technological, and societal challenges.

There are two Mathematics and Philosophy degrees, the three-year BA and the four-year MMathPhil. Decisions regarding continuation to the fourth year do not have to be made until the third year.

The mathematics units in this joint course are all from the single-subject Mathematics course. Accordingly the standard in mathematics for admission to the joint course is the same as for admission to the single-subject Mathematics course.

The compulsory core mathematics for the joint course consists of the pure (as opposed to applied) mathematics from the compulsory core for the single-subject Mathematics course. The philosophy units for the Mathematics and Philosophy course are mostly shared with the other joint courses with Philosophy.

In the first year all parts of the course are compulsory. In the second and third years some subjects are compulsory, consisting of core mathematics and philosophy and bridge papers on philosophy of mathematics and on foundations (logic and set theory), but you also choose options. In the fourth year there are no compulsory subjects, and you can do all Mathematics, all Philosophy, or a combination of the two.

A typical weekly timetable

• Years 1 and 2: up to ten lectures a week, two–three tutorials a week
• Years 3 and 4: up to eight lectures a week. Equivalent of eight units taken each year. Weekly tutorials per Philosophy subject. Fortnightly classes per Mathematics unit

The content and format of this course may change in some circumstances. 

• Attestat o Srednam Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary Education) would not be sufficient for candidates to make a competitive application. If your qualification is listed as being insufficient to make a competitive application to Oxford, then you will need to undertake further study if you wish to apply.You could take British A-levels (the British Council may know where you can take A-levels in your country), the International Baccalaureate (IB), or any other qualifications listed as acceptable on this page. The first year of a bachelor's degree from another university could also be an acceptable alternative.
• IELTS: overall score of 7.0 (with at least 7.0 in each of the four components)
• TOEFL (paper-based): overall score of 600 with a Test of Written English score of 5.5
• TOEFL (internet-based): overall score of 110 with component scores of at least: Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, and Writing 24.
• Cambridge English: Advanced, also known as the Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): grade A if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• Cambridge English: Proficiency, also known as the Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): grade B if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• English Language GCSE, or O-level: grade B (for IGCSE, please see below)
• International Baccalaureate Standard Level (SL): score of 5 in English (as Language A or B)
• European Baccalaureate: score of 70% in English.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Hill Foundation Scholarship

Russian nationals wishing to study for a second undergraduate degree. 

Palgrave Brown Scholarship

Students must be ordinarily resident in and/or educated in the following countries:

Albania; Armenia; Azerbaijan; Belarus; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Bulgaria; Croatia; Czech Republic; Estonia; Georgia; Hungary; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyz Rep.; Latvia; Lithuania; Macedonia;  Moldova; Montenegro; Poland; Romania; Russia; Serbia; Slovakia; Slovenia; Tajikistan; Turkmenistan; Ukraine; Uzbekistan. 

The Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Philosophy at the University of Oxford is a highly interdisciplinary degree designed to explore the interconnections between mathematical reasoning and philosophical inquiry. The programme offers students a comprehensive curriculum that integrates core elements of both disciplines, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of fundamental concepts. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide array of topics, including logic, the foundations of mathematics, epistemology, ethics, metaphysics, and the philosophy of mathematics.

The programme typically spans three or four years, depending on the chosen study route, and involves a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, and independent research. Students are encouraged to develop their own philosophical arguments while also honing their problem-solving abilities through mathematical exercises and coursework. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests—whether they lean more towards rigorously formal mathematical topics or more conceptual philosophical issues.

In the first year, students are introduced to foundational topics such as logic, set theory, and basic calculus, alongside introductory philosophy courses covering logic, epistemology, and the philosophy of mind. The second year often involves more specialized modules, such as abstract algebra, analysis, logic, and philosophical topics like ethics, philosophy of science, and metaphysics. In the final year, students undertake advanced modules and are required to produce a substantial essay or dissertation that demonstrates their ability to synthesize ideas across both disciplines.

The programme is supported by Oxford’s renowned tutorial system, providing personalized academic mentorship from expert tutors. Students also have access to extensive libraries, research materials, and a vibrant academic community that fosters discussion and debate. Graduates of the Mathematics and Philosophy programme are well-equipped for careers in academia, finance, technology, law, government, and other fields that value logical rigor, analytical skills, and the capacity for independent thought.

Admission to the programme is competitive, and applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic achievement and a keen interest in both subjects. The University of Oxford’s Mathematics and Philosophy degree offers an intellectually rigorous environment that challenges students and prepares them for a broad range of professional and academic pursuits.