Mathematics Including a Foundation Year

Program description for Mathematics Including a Foundation Year at the University of Kent

Our Mathematics Including a Foundation Year programme at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive pathway into the world of mathematics, designed for those who do not meet the traditional entry requirements or wish to strengthen their academic foundations prior to degree studies. This innovative course combines foundational mathematical principles with advanced topics, preparing students for successful progression onto the full Bachelor's degree in Mathematics. The Foundation Year provides an excellent opportunity to develop essential skills, including problem-solving, analytical thinking, and quantitative reasoning, ensuring that students are well-equipped to undertake higher-level mathematical study.

Throughout the foundation year, students will engage with core modules such as pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and introductory statistics, alongside developing their academic skills. The curriculum is carefully structured to build confidence and competence, bridging the gap between previous education and university-level mathematics. This preparatory year also emphasizes the development of effective communication skills, independent learning, and research techniques, all of which are vital for academic success.

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, students will seamlessly progress onto the BSc Mathematics degree, where they can explore specialized areas such as algebra, calculus, mathematical modelling, computational mathematics, and more. The full degree programme offers an excellent balance between theoretical understanding and practical application, with opportunities for internships, research projects, and collaborative work.

The University of Kent boasts state-of-the-art facilities, a vibrant student community, and access to a dedicated academic team who are committed to supporting students throughout their academic journey. Graduates from the programme are well-prepared for careers in finance, data science, teaching, research, and various roles within industry and public sector organizations. The programme provides not only a rigorous mathematical education but also develops transferable skills such as critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving, which are highly valued in today’s job market.

Whether you are transitioning from further education or wish to enhance your mathematical skills to pursue a professional career, the Mathematics Including a Foundation Year at the University of Kent offers an accessible and supportive environment to achieve your academic and career goals. Join us and begin your journey into the fascinating world of mathematics with a course designed to set you up for success at university and beyond.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline You are advised to apply as early as possible Tuition fee

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

Start date September 2015 Start: 28 September 2015 Duration: 4 years full-time (5 years with a year in industry) Credits (ECTS) 240 ECTS

Total Kent credits: 480

Credits 480

Total Kent credits: 480

Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Foundation year

If your qualifications are not sufficient, for whatever reason, for direct entry onto a degree programme, you can apply for this programme.

Find out more about the benefits of a Foundation Year.

Possible modules may include:

• EL021 - Calculus
• EL033 - Introduction to programming using MATLAB
• MA022 - Graphs, Geometry and Trigonometry
• MA024 - Additional Mathematics
• MA025 - Foundation Statistics
• MA026 - Mathematical Workshops
• PH020 - Algebra and Arithmetic

Teaching & Assessment

Teaching amounts to approximately 16 hours of lectures and classes per week. Modules that involve programming or working with computer software packages usually include practical sessions.

The majority of Stage 1 modules are assessed by end-of-year examinations. Many Stage 2 and 3 modules include coursework which normally counts for 20% of the final assessment. Both Stage 2 and 3 marks count towards your final degree result.

Programme aims

The programme aims to:

• equip students with the technical appreciation, skills and knowledge appropriate to a degree in mathematics
• develop students’ facilities of rigorous reasoning and precise expression
• develop students’ abilities to formulate and solve mathematical problems
• encourage an appreciation of recent developments in mathematics and of the links between the theory of mathematics and its practical application
• provide students with a logical, mathematical approach to solving problems
• provide students with an enhanced capacity for independent thought and work
• ensure students are competent in the use of information technology and are familiar with computers and the relevant software
• provide students with opportunities to study advanced topics in mathematics, engage in research at some level, and develop communication and personal skills.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

You gain knowledge and understanding of:

• the core principles of calculus, algebra, mathematical methods, discrete mathematics, analysis and linear algebra
• statistics in the areas of probability and inference
• information technology as relevant to mathematicians
• methods and techniques of mathematics
• the role of logical mathematical argument and deductive reasoning.

Intellectual skills

You develop your intellectual skills in the following areas:

• the ability to demonstrate a reasonable understanding of mathematics
• the calculation and manipulation of the material written within the programme
• the ability to apply a range of concepts and principles in various contexts
• the ability to use logical argument
• the ability to solve mathematical problems by various methods
• the relevant computer skills
• the ability to work independently.

Subject-specific skills

You gain subject-skills in the following areas:

• the ability to demonstrate knowledge of key mathematical concepts and topics, both explicitly and by applying them to the solution of problems
• the ability to comprehend problems, abstract the essentials of problems and formulate them mathematically and in symbolic form so as to facilitate their analysis and solution
• the use of computational and more general IT facilities as an aid to mathematical processes
• the presentation of mathematical arguments and conclusions with clarity and accuracy.

Transferable skills

You gain transferable skills in the following areas:

• problem-solving skills, relating to qualitative and quantitative information
• communication skills
• numeracy and computational skills
• information-retrieval skills, in relation to primary and secondary information sources, including through on-line computer searches
• information technology skills such as word-processing, spreadsheet use and internet communication
• time-management and organisational skills, as shown by the ability to plan and implement effective modes of working
• study skills needed for continuing professional development.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

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

take an IELTS test.

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification, Typical offer/minimum requirement

A level

• Individually considered (contact Admissions Officer)

Access to HE Diploma

• The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma)

• The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

International Baccalaureate

• Individually considered (contact Admissions Officer)

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

English language entry requirements

• 6.5 IELTS (with a minimum of 6.0 in Reading and Writing and 5.5 in Speaking and Listening)

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 Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to support eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 entry support package has not been finalised. However, our 2014 financial support package included a £6,500 cash bursary. Find out more on our funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.

The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Including a Foundation Year at the University of Kent is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of mathematical principles and techniques, while also offering a preparatory year for those who need to develop their skills before entering the main degree programme. The Foundation Year is tailored for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for undergraduate study or who wish to strengthen their background in subjects relevant to mathematics. The programme covers fundamental areas such as algebra, calculus, and mathematical reasoning, alongside courses aimed at improving academic skills, confidence, and independence in learning.

Students will benefit from the university’s strong emphasis on both theoretical and applied mathematics, gaining experience in problem-solving, modelling, and computational methods. The curriculum is structured to gradually build up knowledge, with the foundation year focusing on core concepts and skills necessary for success in subsequent years of the degree. As students progress, they will engage with modules on pure mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, and potentially data science, depending on the specific pathway chosen.

The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, including access to computer labs and mathematical software, supporting students' learning and research activities. Taught by experienced academics, the programme encourages critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and the ability to apply mathematical techniques to real-world problems. The programme also offers opportunities for project work, group discussions, and independent research, fostering a collaborative and stimulating academic environment.

Graduates of this programme are equipped for careers in finance, engineering, data analysis, scientific research, and more. The foundation year effectively opens the door to a full BSc degree in Mathematics, enabling students from diverse educational backgrounds to achieve their academic and professional ambitions. The University of Kent’s supportive learning environment and strong links with industry ensure that students receive a well-rounded education that emphasizes both academic excellence and employability skills.