Mathematics, Cryptography and Network Security (including Year Abroad)

The Mathematics, Cryptography and Network Security (including Year Abroad) programme at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in the fundamental principles and advanced applications of mathematics, cryptography, and cybersecurity. Designed for those interested in pursuing careers in information security, data protection, or further academic research, this course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills essential in today’s digital world. Students will explore core areas such as algebra, calculus, discrete mathematics, and statistics, building a solid mathematical foundation necessary for understanding complex algorithms and computational models.

The programme places a special emphasis on cryptography, teaching students how to develop secure communication systems, understand cryptographic protocols, and analyze vulnerabilities in digital security infrastructures. A key feature of the course is its integration of network security topics, where learners gain insights into protecting computer networks against malicious attacks, securing data transmission, and implementing effective security policies. The inclusion of a Year Abroad offers an international dimension, providing students with the opportunity to study at partner universities across Europe, North America, or other regions, broadening their cultural horizons and enhancing their academic and professional prospects.

Throughout the programme, students benefit from a balanced mix of lectures, practical workshops, and project work, often collaborating with industry partners or engaging in research-led activities. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect emerging challenges and innovations in cybersecurity and cryptography, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the evolving landscape of digital security. Upon successful completion, students will have acquired skills highly valued by employers in finance, government, tech companies, and consultancy firms, or continue their academic journey through postgraduate studies.

This programme also emphasizes employability skills such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication, essential for advancing in technical roles or academia. The University of Essex’s supportive learning environment, state-of-the-art computing facilities, and strong ties with industry help students to develop the practical expertise and confidence needed to succeed in the competitive field of cybersecurity and mathematical sciences. Whether you aim to protect sensitive data, develop innovative cryptographic systems, or research new security solutions, this degree provides a strong foundation for your professional ambitions in a rapidly growing and vital sector.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. If you are taking science and engineering subjects, then these options are slightly restricted because our science modules tend to rely on previous knowledge of the subject.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BSc, then you are qualified to enter the second year not only of that course but also of a range of other courses: for example, if you are a BSc student who takes economics, politics, philosophy and sociology in your first year, then you have a choice of at least two courses and, in some cases, as many as five. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available.
We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you. Some of our science courses offer an optional extra year of an industrial placement.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

Calculus;
Linear Mathematics;
Introduction to Programming;
Object-oriented Programming;
Introduction to Databases;
Network Fundamentals;
Statistics and;
Further Calculus

Year 2

Linear Algebra;
Optimisation (Linear Programming);
Mathematical Methods;
Probability and Statistics I;
Application Programming;
Analysis;
Computer and Data Networks; and
Computer Security

Year 3

Year abroad

Year 4

Ordinary Differential Equations;
Graph Theory;
Codes and Cryptography;
Network Security;
Mathematics Project; and
three mathematical sciences options
Please note that Mathematics Careers and Employability is a compulsory module which must be taken in all years (not including Year Abroad) but is non-credit bearing and does not contribute towards your final degree.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A-levels: ABB-BBB, including Mathematics (please note that we are unable to accept A-level Use of Mathematics in place of A-level Mathematics)
GCSE English: C
IB: 32-30 points, including a 5 in Higher Level Mathematics (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The Mathematics, Cryptography and Network Security program at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth understanding of fundamental mathematical principles alongside specialized knowledge in the fields of cryptography and network security. The degree is designed to equip students with the theoretical background and practical skills necessary to address contemporary challenges in information security and data protection. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics including algebra, calculus, number theory, and discrete mathematics, which form the foundation of modern cryptographic methods. They also gain practical experience in designing secure communication protocols, understanding vulnerabilities in computer networks, and implementing cryptographic algorithms.

A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of a Year Abroad option, allowing students to spend an academic year studying at a partner university in a different country. This experience broadens their cultural horizons and enhances their language skills, as well as providing a unique opportunity to experience different teaching styles and research environments. The Year Abroad is integral to developing global perspectives on security challenges faced by international organizations and corporations, preparing students for careers in multinational technology firms or governmental agencies.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning through coursework, projects, and laboratory sessions, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations. Industry placements and internships are also encouraged, giving students valuable work experience and networking opportunities. Graduates of this program are well-placed for careers in cybersecurity, cryptography research, data analysis, and related fields, or for advanced study at postgraduate level. The curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated in accordance with the latest developments in technology and security protocols, ensuring that students are equipped with current knowledge and skills aligned with industry needs. Overall, the course aims to produce highly skilled graduates capable of contributing effectively to the secure handling and encryption of digital information in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.