TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Mathematics with Foundation Year

Passionate about maths but missing standard entry requirements? Our four-year degree helps you build skills in pure and applied mathematics, statistics, and programming – ideal if you’ve been out of education or need extra preparation.

Our typical offer

32 UCAS points

Research-informed teaching

Learn from research-active staff who apply mathematical methods to real-world challenges. Access to the High Performance Computer supports advanced research, especially in your final year.

Career-ready skills

Gain in-demand abilities like problem-solving, coding and communication. A paid placement year boosts employability – many students secure multiple job offers before graduating.

Supportive community

Enjoy a close-knit academic environment with small tutorials, approachable lecturers, student-led learning sessions and an active Maths Society.
BSc (Hons) Mathematics with Foundation Year
About Details Experience Careers Fees and funding Apply Register for open day

About

Maths student writing on a whiteboard. Getty 1638038378.

You don’t need to be a genius to study maths at university. If you enjoy tackling problems, asking questions, and learning with others, you can succeed here. At Plymouth, we provide students with the support and guidance needed to build confidence, develop practical skills, and go on to challenging, rewarding careers that make an impact.

Professor Alex Belton
Professor Alex Belton Head of School and substantive Professor of Mathematics
 
 
 

What is a foundation year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
 
Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
  • To build your confidence to study at university level.
  • To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
  
 

This course is for you if...

you want to sharpen your problem-solving skills and learn to think logically and creatively
Head with jigsaw pieces inside
you look to gain skills and knowledge of mathematical software that employers value
Calculator
you're eager to gain hands-on experience and industry exposure during your studies
Hand holding two cogs
you enjoy being part of a close-knit, supportive and collaborative community
Group of three people with lightbulb above head

Details

Foundation year

Our mathematics Foundation Year is the perfect starting point for your university journey, giving you the skills, support, and confidence to thrive on one of our dynamic mathematics degrees.
Whether you're returning to education, changing direction, or just want a solid grounding before diving into degree-level study, this year-long course will build your mathematical knowledge, sharpen your problem-solving skills, and introduce you to computer programming. By studying stimulating modules dedicated to pure and applied mathematics, you’ll be surprised at how you grow in confidence and mathematical fluency!
With personalised support from friendly, experienced mathematics lecturers, you’ll receive the teaching, guidance and encouragement needed to thrive. Once you’ve completed the foundation year, you’ll be in an excellent position to flourish on any of the mathematics degrees at Plymouth, which are designed to suit a wide range of interests and career goals.
Maths PALS (Peer Assisted Learning Scheme)

Core modules

COMP060
Principles of Computing and AI 30 credits

Exploit the power of high-performance computing and artificial intelligence in science: learn how programmes are designed and written and how computing can be used to address problems in your discipline. You will get ahead of the game by learning how to program in Python and apply your skills in real-world settings via a series of guest lectures from academics and industry figures leading weekly computing workshops.

100% Coursework

MATH060
Foundational Mathematics in STEM 30 credits

Ready to lay the foundation for your degree? Learn about the fundamental maths behind real-world phenomena that is vital across Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Add to your toolbox the skills of algebra, geometry and calculus and see how they are applied in your discipline. Most importantly, you will complete this module feeling confident with your ability to do calculations effectively and correctly.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

PHYS060
Physics, Mechanics and Applied Mathematics 30 credits

"Put your maths into a real-world context by modelling a range of fascinating phenomena in science, technology and engineering. A unique, lab-led approach exposes you to experiments in the university’s flagship STEAM and COAST labs and the physics behind them. Apply your maths skills to predict the outcome of these labs and statistics to process the data you collect to test your understanding of the physical world. "

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

SOFT060
Software Development and Data Science Project 30 credits

This module enhances programming skills and provides a grounding in software development paradigms for computing applications in STEM for academia and industry. It teaches advanced aspects of programming alongside project management and systems analysis. In groups, students will plan, develop, document and deliver a software solution to a pathway-specific problem in academia or industry and demonstrate their solution.

75% Coursework

25% Tests

 
 
 

Alternative pathways

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

Discover mathematics at Plymouth

“Mathematics is a really exciting subject. You should choose Plymouth because of its world-class facilities and you will be guided by people who really enjoy the subject.”

Professor David McMullan explains what studying one of the range of mathematics degrees at Plymouth is like and how it can provide a firm basis for a successful career.
 
 
 
Vincent Drach teaching mathematics

Exceptional support and engaged learning

At Plymouth, student support is at the heart of our Mathematics degrees. From small-group tutorials to peer-assisted learning (PALS) to a personal tutor system and an online drop-in centre, we ensure you're never studying alone. Our approachable lecturers maintain an open-door policy and actively encourage questions and discussion.
We match weekly contact time in lectures, tutorials and computer labs with an expectation of independent study, fostering discipline and deep understanding. We also embrace technology to enhance learning: digital lecture notes, staff and student-led podcasts, and in-class voting systems provide instant feedback and keep sessions interactive. It’s a rigorous and rewarding journey, backed by a strong record of student satisfaction.
Babbage building on a sunny day with blue skies, two people entering the building.

World-class facilities

Visualising advanced mathematics – especially in higher dimensions or complex systems – can be challenging, so we provide a range of resources to support your understanding. 
You’ll have access to first-class computer labs, industrial-grade software, and our unique Immersive Visualisation Suite which brings mathematical concepts to life through the lens of astronomy and planetary motion. Our dedicated student room fosters collaboration across year groups, encouraging lively discussions and debate around mathematical ideas. Lecturers are always nearby, often joining conversations and offering insights, creating a vibrant, supportive learning environment that’s valued by both students and staff.
 
 
 
Katie Hardman, BSc (Hons) Mathematics student at the University

Develop your skills, knowledge and confidence with a work placement

Katie Hardman – industrial experience to a job offer
“I found that the skills I had already gained at the University prepared me well for the experience and also for future jobs.”
After her industrial internship with Babcock, Katie was offered a full-time graduate position by them after the completion of her degree. Read Katie's story.
 
 
 
Paula Oben

Completing the Foundation Year really helped build confidence and prepare me for the first year by bridging gaps in my knowledge and strengthening my previous education. We have the same lecturers as other course years do, giving us a stronger knowledge of how the academic life of university works, which a lot of first-year students won't have.

Paula
BSc (Hons) Mathematics with Foundation Year student

 
 
 

Meet your lecturers

Dr James Edwards Lecturer in Applied Mathematics/Theoretical Physics


Lecturer in Applied Mathematics/Theoretical Physics

Dr Jason Hughes Lecturer in Mathematics


Lecturer in Mathematics

Dr Jenny Sharp Lecturer in Mathematics Education


Lecturer in Mathematics Education

Show all
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
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Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

A Plymouth mathematics degree opens the door to a rewarding career in many sectors including science, engineering, finance, government, medicine and education. Employers value work experience, and we offer a varied programme of student placements. Our graduates progress to a wide range of interesting jobs or postgraduate study. Recent employers include KPMG, GCHQ, Lloyds Banking Group, the Met Office, Oxford Clinical Trials Research Unit, and Siemens.
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    100% of our mathematics with foundation year graduates felt that staff explained things well

  • Ê

    95% of our mathematics with foundation year graduates felt that staff supported their learning well

  • ]

    90% of our mathematics with foundation year graduates go on to work or further study

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year  completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year  completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year  completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
32 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
Mathematics and English at grade C/4 or above.

A levels
A minimum of 2 A levels. 

BTEC
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: PPP. 12 Unit BTEC National Certificate/QCF Diploma: PP
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. This information enables us to process your application quickly and avoid delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

Access courses
Pass Access course (preferably from a science/technology subject) including GCSE English and mathematics grade C/4 or above, or equivalent. For candidates that do not have a science, electrical or technology background please contact: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk for further advice.  

T levels
Pass (D or E on the core) 72 points or above. Any subjects related to Science/Engineering/Health. Must have GCSE Maths grade C/4.

International Baccalaureate
24 overall. English and mathematics must be included.

Other qualifications
Mature students with appropriate work experience are encouraged to apply. An informal discussion with an academic may aid the decision process and help you better prepare for the course. Other qualifications will be considered individually.
Students may also apply directly to BSc (Hons) Mathematics or any of our other mathematics degrees listed below on this page and they will be made an alternative offer of the foundation year if appropriate.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
G103
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
  • Apply at UCAS.com
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    32 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
  • Apply at UCAS.com
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    G103
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    4 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth
     
     
     

    Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
     
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    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.