do you write essays in a maths degree

• Telephone Tel: +44 (0) 20 7499 2394
• Email Email: [email protected]

Strategic Guidance

• Private Oxbridge Consultation
• International Oxbridge Consultation
• Postgraduate Applications Guidance
• Book a Complimentary Call

Comprehensive Support

• The Premier Service
• Oxford and Cambridge Interview Preparation Weekend

Targeted Support

• Oxbridge Personal Statement Support
• Oxbridge Admissions Test Support
• Oxbridge Interview Preparation Support
• Admissions Test Preparation Day 2024

Application Guidance

• ‘Aspiring to Oxbridge’ School Talk
• Teacher Training Workshop
• Individual Guidance Consultations

Personal Statement Support

• Personal Statement Group Workshop
• Personal Statement Consultations

Admissions Test Preparation

• Admissions Test Day
• Admissions Test Course

Interview Preparation

• Interview Preparation Day
• Interview Preparation Course

Free Library

• Oxbridge Interview Resources
• Admissions Tests Resources
• Student Library
• Teacher Library
• Keeping You Current
• Webinar Library

Our Publications

Course reports, oxbridge applications.

• Become A Tutor
• Our Offices
• Dukes Education

News & Press

• Widening Access
• Publications
• Sign In Register
• Sign In    Register

Mathematics Personal Statement Guide

Your Personal Statement plays a crucial role in your mathematics university application , as i t’s the first chance you have to introduce yourself as an individual to the admissions tutors .

Y ou can demonstrate your passion to study maths, show the contribution you would make to the cohort, and prove that you have the abilities and motivation to receive an offer.   

A lot of applicants struggle to write personal statements. It’s difficult to balance writing about academic interests with personal achievements, keep everything relevant to the maths courses you’re applying to, and fit it all within just over one A4 page of text.   

To help you get on the right track, our Personal Statement Guide takes you through everything you need to know to create a great maths personal statement :  

• Why are Personal Statements Important?
• What Should I Include in a Mathematics Personal Statement?  
• What Should I Avoid in a Mathematics Personal Statement?  

Advice on How to Start a Mathematics Personal Statement  

Advice on how to finish a mathematics personal statement  .

What Should I Avoid in a Mathematics Personal Statement ?  

Do not be wishy-washy with your statements . Rather than saying that you have always loved maths, perhaps explain how numbers or equations fit into your world view; rather than saying you like a particular mathematician, discuss their specific contributions and how they have inspired your maths journey.   

Being specific and digging down into the academic side of maths is what is really going to impress admissions tutors.   

Avoid cliched statements like the plague . Even though you are passionate about maths, don’t state “I am passionate about maths”; find a less cliched way to say it instead.   

Your statement might require several drafts to ensure the language is interesting yet accurate, but it’s worth it: if you came up with something in a minute, then it’s likely so did lots of other applicants.  

Don’t be tempted to mention personal achievements that are not related or involve transferable skills relevant to maths. We understand that it’s tempting to include details of your Judo black belt, your gold Duke of Edinburgh award, or your prize for best history essay, but unless you can clearly argue its relevance to studying mathematics, then it won’t impress the tutors.

Register to access our complimentary e-book "So You Want To Go To Oxbridge? Tell me about a banana…"

There are a thousand different ways that you can begin a personal statement, which often makes it the most difficult part of the process.   

There’s one one-size-fits-all answer to this: some applicants begin with a quote from a mathematician that has inspired them, others start by discussing what inspired them to pursue maths at university, whilst others jump straight into a discipline that they find most interesting.   

The opening of the statement sets the tone for the entire personal statement , so it’s crucial that it’s in your own words and reflects your own personality; admissions tutors will be able to tell if it’s someone else’s words! If you’re struggling to find an opener, we recommend drafting the rest of the personal statement before coming back to write the introduction.   

This can help you have a better idea of what opening will best set the groundwork for the rest of the statement body.   

Knowing how to close out a personal statement can be just as difficult as beginning one. The final paragraph of your personal statement should round up the statement and summarise your dedication to maths and your academic interest.   

Like the opening, the final section of your personal statement will likely need a good few rewrites, so don’t feel disheartened if you haven’t captured it perfectly first time round.   

• What are some Tips for Writing a Strong Mathematics Personal Statement?
• How Long Should my Mathematics Personal Statement Be?
• What Kind of Extracurricular Activities Should I Include in my Mathematics Personal Statement?
• How Can I Tailor my Mathematics Personal Statement to the Oxford/Cambridge Course?

Getting started is one of the trickiest parts of the personal statement process. We recommend making a big list of everything you have done or are interested in to help focus your mind.   

Just because STEM subjects like maths seem less creative than other subjects, it doesn’t mean that your inspiration has to be stale. Perhaps try:  

• Watching films about maths or mathematics (the most famous examples are Good Will Hunting, Moneyball, and A Beautiful Mind ) to get you in the right frame of mind  
• Getting into a podcast about maths (Oxford University has one called The Secret of Mathematics )  
• Reading some accessible maths books (such as Humble Pi: A Comedy of Maths Errors by Matt Parker or The Simpsons and their Mathematical Secrets by Simon Singh)  

Remember to Keep note of the things you read, watch, and experience that inspire you as you do them; this will help make writing the statement easier.  

UCAS has strict limits for all personal statements: 4,000 characters or 47 lines on the UCAS form (whichever limit is reached first). This is roughly one to two sides of typed A4.   

This may feel like a lot of space, but once you get going you’ll realise that it’s not! We recommend using up the majority if not all the space given to you so that you give admissions tutors the best possible idea of who you are as a maths student.   

It can be difficult to decide what you should or shouldn’t include in a maths personal statement.   

As a general rule, if you include something, you must be able to relate it to maths – either through its content or through transferrable skills.   

For example, if you spent time working as a maths tutor or competed in maths competitions, then clearly these are relevant. However, the link you find can be more creative than this: perhaps you have studied multiple languages which exercises your skills at pattern-spotting, or maybe you have won a critical thinking essay competition which demonstrates your problem-solving skills?   

The key is to think outside of the box, and for every activity you mention, clearly state how it links to important maths-related skills.   

Tailoring a personal statement to any one course is difficult, since the same statement is sent by UCAS to all of your university choices (of which you have up to five). This means that you should not directly mention the specifics of any one course, since it signals to other universities that you are not considering their course as your main option.   

Instead, we recommend targeting Oxbridge through the style of your statement: keep it tight to the academic study of maths and demonstrate your analytical skills.   

Showing that you’ve researched maths outside of school to a high level, and leaving out any personal interests that don’t relate to maths, is a good way to keep Oxbridge tutors interested.

Book your Mathematics Personal Statement Package

You can contact our Oxbridge-graduate Consultants on +44 (0) 20 7499 2394 or email [email protected] to discuss our personal statement packages.  

If you’d like to know more about Mathematics, we have admissions test guidance and interview preparation readily available.  

Our Oxbridge-graduate consultants are available between 9.00 am – 5.00 pm from Monday to Friday, with additional evening availability when requested.

• Tel: +44 (0) 20 7499 2394
• Email: [email protected]

Oxbridge Applications, 58 Buckingham Gate, London, SW1E 6AJ

• Private Oxbridge Application Consultation
• Oxbridge Personal Statement Support Package
• Oxbridge Mock Interview Preparation and Support
• Personal Statement Workshop and Checks
• Schools Mock Interviews – Online and In-School
• Teacher Training Workshops – Online and In-School
• Oxbridge Preparation Days – Online and In-School
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Safeguarding & Child Protection
• Company Registration Number: 3757054

Recently Updated Blogs

Blog 10 things i wish i knew before i applied to oxbridge, blog how can i use chatgpt for my personal statement, blog overused topics and resources to avoid in your personal statement, blog what gcse grades do i need for oxbridge, blog how will my gcses impact my university applications, choosing a college, a slippery question, added to cart.

• Applying to Uni
• Apprenticeships
• Health & Relationships
• Money & Finance

Personal Statements

• Postgraduate
• U.S Universities

University Interviews

• Vocational Qualifications
• Accommodation
• ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
• ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
• ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
• ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

• ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
• ​​​​​​​Technology
• ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Clearing Guide

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

• Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

• Postgraduate Personal Statements
• International Student Personal Statements
• Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

• Personal Statement Changes 2025
• Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

• Mature Student Personal Statements
• Personal Statements By University
• Accountancy and Finance Personal Statements
• Actuarial Science Personal Statements
• American Studies Personal Statements
• Anthropology Personal Statements
• Archaeology Personal Statements
• Architecture Personal Statements
• Art and Design Personal Statements
• Biochemistry Personal Statements
• Bioengineering Personal Statements
• Biology Personal Statements
• Biomedical Science Personal Statements
• Biotechnology Personal Statements
• Business Management Personal Statement Examples
• Business Personal Statements
• Catering and Food Personal Statements
• Chemistry Personal Statements
• Classics Personal Statements
• Computer Science Personal Statements
• Computing and IT Personal Statements
• Criminology Personal Statements
• Dance Personal Statements
• Dentistry Personal Statements
• Design Personal Statements
• Dietetics Personal Statements
• Drama Personal Statements
• Economics Personal Statement Examples
• Education Personal Statements
• Engineering Personal Statement Examples
• English Personal Statements
• Environment Personal Statements
• Environmental Science Personal Statements
• Event Management Personal Statements
• Fashion Personal Statements
• Film Personal Statements
• Finance Personal Statements
• Forensic Science Personal Statements
• Geography Personal Statements
• Geology Personal Statements
• Health Sciences Personal Statements
• History Personal Statements
• History of Art Personal Statements
• Hotel Management Personal Statements
• International Relations Personal Statements
• International Studies Personal Statements
• Islamic Studies Personal Statements
• Japanese Studies Personal Statements
• Journalism Personal Statements
• Land Economy Personal Statements
• Languages Personal Statements
• Law Personal Statement Examples
• Linguistics Personal Statements
• Management Personal Statements
• Marketing Personal Statements
• Mathematics Personal Statements
• Media Personal Statements
• Medicine Personal Statement Examples
• Midwifery Personal Statements
• Music Personal Statements
• Music Technology Personal Statements
• Natural Sciences Personal Statements
• Neuroscience Personal Statements
• Nursing Personal Statements
• Occupational Therapy Personal Statements
• Osteopathy Personal Statements
• Oxbridge Personal Statements
• Pharmacy Personal Statements
• Philosophy Personal Statements
• Photography Personal Statements
• Physics Personal Statements
• Physiology Personal Statements
• Physiotherapy Personal Statements
• Politics Personal Statements
• Psychology Personal Statement Examples
• Radiography Personal Statements
• Religious Studies Personal Statements
• Social Work Personal Statements
• Sociology Personal Statements
• Sports & Leisure Personal Statements
• Sports Science Personal Statements
• Surveying Personal Statements
• Teacher Training Personal Statements
• Theology Personal Statements
• Travel and Tourism Personal Statements
• Urban Planning Personal Statements
• Veterinary Science Personal Statements
• Zoology Personal Statements
• Personal Statement Editing Service
• Personal Statement Writing Guide
• Submit Your Personal Statement
• Personal Statement Questions 2025

Mathematics Personal Statement Examples

What is a maths personal statement?

Your mathematics personal statement should describe your motivations for wanting to study this subject. It tells the university who you are and why you will make a good maths student. Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate course, you need to paint yourself in the best possible light to convince admissions tutors that should offer you a place on their course.

How do I write a maths personal statement?

We recommend starting your maths personal statement by making some note about your skills, experience, hobbies/extracurricular activities, strengths and ambitions for the future. Our personal statement template can help you structure your thoughts into sentences and paragraphs that flow well together, and looking through our top rated examples will show you what makes a successful personal statement.

Starting your first draft in the summer holidays will give you plenty of time to re-draft your statement, and proofread it for spelling and grammar. You will need to go through at least three or four revisions before you have a final, polished draft that you can submit on your UCAS form.

Once you're happy with it, don't just rely on spellchecker for spelling and grammar errors. Read your statement thoroughly several times before pasting it into your UCAS form.

What should I include in my maths personal statement?

• Be specific and try to give examples of your problem-solving and analytical skills, both of which are important in a maths degree.
• If you’re applying for a joint honours, e.g. maths and finance, then tailor your statement so you relate it to both of these subjects.
• A good maths personal statement might mention a role of responsibility, such as leader of your student maths club or head boy/girl at your sixth form. Or for a maths and finance personal statement, you could mention managing money at your Saturday job and what you learned from this.
• Any hobbies or other activities you are involved in outside of school should always be linked to your maths course. If you don't feel something is relevant, then don't mention it - remember you only have a limited space of 4,000 characters, so every word has to earn its place in your statement. Don't waste them on your grade 6 violin, or your collection of royal family souvenirs.

For more help and advice on what to write in your sociology personal statement, please see:

• Personal Statement Editing Services
• Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
• Analysis Of A Personal Statement
• The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
• Personal Statement FAQs
• Personal Statement Timeline
• 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
• What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

Related resources

Becoming an air traffic controller.

Find out more

How To Write A Personal Statement

Choosing A University

A Level Results Day

Where to start

• Ultimate Guides
• Virtual Work Experiences
• Chat to students
• UCAS events
• Apprenticeships

Subject guides

• Subject tasters

Industry guides

Where to go.

• Universities and colleges

City guides

• Types of employment
• Write a cover letter
• Starting work
• Career quiz

Before you apply

• Campus open days
• What and where to study
• Distance learning
• Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)
• Studying at a college
• Pros and cons of university

Applying to university

• Dates and deadlines

Personal statement

• UCAS Tariff points
• Individual needs

After applying

• Track your application
• Decisions and offers

Results day

Clearing and results day, conservatoires.

• Fees and finance
• How to apply

Replying to offers

• Tracking your application

Postgraduate

• Choosing a course
• Fees, loans, and funding
• Teacher training
• International students
• Student finance
• Scholarships, grants, and bursaries

Additional funding

• Managing money
• Student discounts

Student life

• Starting uni or college
• Mental health and wellbeing

Accommodation

• Accommodation for apprentices
• Accommodation for disabled students
• Apply for student accommodation
• Find the right accommodation
• The ultimate packing list
• Visas and immigration
• English Language Tests (ELTs)
• Choosing the right course
• Entry requirements
• International clearing guide

Financial information

• Available finance options
• Saving money
• UK bank accounts
• Support for refugees and asylum seekers

Extra support

• Adjusting to the UK
• Application tips
• Available support
• Checklist for moving to the UK
• International FAQs
• Support organisations

Products as part of your membership

Student recruitment and marketing.

• Drive applications through Clearing
• Drive applications through Extra
• Exhibiting as a university or college
• Improve conversions
• Improve your competitive strategy
• Increase brand awareness
• Provider pages

Data products and solutions

• Application and decision tracker
• Competitor insight dashboard
• Course feasibility
• Leaky Hosepipe solution
• Outreach Elevator
• Student decision report
• Untapped Geographies

Managing applications

• Availability of UCAS data
• Fraud and similarity
• HESA return
• Link services
• Record of Prior Acceptance (RPA)
• Results Processing Service (ABL)
• Systems and services guides

Qualification Information Services

Provider news and updates, provider developments, ucas correspondents bulletin documents, test and training environments.

• HEP1 and HEP2

UCAS maintenance schedule

Upcoming developments.

• Previous updates

Link product development

• Availability of new features
• UCAS Link API strategy
• Groups and forums

Admissions guides and resources

• Conservatoire admissions guide and resources
• Provider contact types
• Undergraduate admissions guide and resources

Good practice

• Admissions policies
• Admissions processes
• Applicant experience
• Collection tool help
• Contextualised admissions
• Equality and diversity
• Supporting disadvantages and under-represented groups
• Unconditional offers
• Widening access and participation

Join the UCAS conservatoire scheme

Join the ucas undergraduate scheme, online learning, provider engagement.

• Annual provider update
• UCAS correspondents bulletin

ServiceNOW portal

• Adviser portal

Adviser news

Newsletters, adviser lives, discovery events, create your future events, conferences, events training, events calendar 2023, events calendar 2024, teacher and adviser conference 2024, cycle toolkits.

• Adviser 2024 toolkit
• Conservatoire application toolkit
• Supporting students with individual needs

Lesson activities

• Classroom resources
• Lesson plans

Develop your adviser skills

• Practical ways to guide students
• Help finding work experience
• Events and summer school
• Positive career discussions
• Advice about GCSE choices

Online training

Key dates timeline, tools and resources.

• UCAS hub guide
• Digital training
• Progression pathways

Pre application support

• Bursaries, scholarships, and financial support
• Help writing personal statements
• Student budget planner
• Alternatives to A Levels
• Higher education options

Application overview

• Application deadlines
• Application process
• Exam results process
• Monitor student progression
• Predicted grades
• Undergraduate references 2024
• Reference processes and terminology
• Conservatoire references

UCAS registered centres

• Becoming a UCAS registered centre
• Getting started
• Teachers and advisers

International advisers

• Clearing guide for international students
• Qualifications advice
• Supporting international students

Confirmation and Clearing

• ACSL guidance
• Clearing essentials
• Conservatoires confirmation
• International students guide

UCAS process

Advanced practitioner tips, terms of service.

• Reach talent and acquisition

Apprentices with UCAS

Career finder, employer profiles, multichannel campaigns, apprentices, international guides, make the most of clearing, smart financial decisions.

• Filling in your application

Making changes to your application

How to get a reference, results process, application cancellation request form.

• Requests for personal data
• Notifications
• Preferences
• Provider Homepage
• Provider Dashboard
• Student Hub
• Adviser Homepage
• Adviser Portal
• Personal statement advice: maths
• Calculate your UCAS Tariff points
• Amendments to the Tariff consultation
• Offer rate calculator
• How to use the offer rate calculator
• Understanding historical entry grades data
• Admissions tests
• Deferred entry
• Staying safe online
• How to write a personal statement that works for multiple courses
• The new personal statement for 2026 entry
• How To Write Your Undergraduate Personal Statement
• How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber
• How to end your personal statement
• Introducing the personal statement tool
• Personal statement dos and don'ts
• Personal statement week
• What to include in a personal statement
• Using AI and ChatGPT to help you with your personal statement
• Using your personal statement beyond a university application
• Carers, estranged students, refugees, asylum seekers, and those with limited leave to remain
• Personal statement advice: animal science
• Personal statement advice: biology
• Personal statement advice: business and management
• Personal statement advice: chemistry
• Personal statement advice and example: computer science
• Personal statement advice: dance
• Personal statement advice: dentistry
• Personal statement advice: drama
• Personal statement advice: economics
• Personal statement advice: engineering
• Personal statement advice: english
• Personal statement advice: geography
• Personal statement advice: history
• Personal statement advice: law
• Personal statement advice: media studies and journalism
• Personal statement advice: medicine
• Personal statement advice: midwifery
• Personal statement advice: modern languages
• Personal statement advice: music
• Personal statement advice: nursing
• Personal statement advice: pharmacy
• Personal statement advice: physiotherapy
• Personal statement advice: politics
• Personal statement advice: psychology
• Personal statement advice: social work
• Personal statement advice: sociology
• Personal statement advice: sports science
• Personal statement advice: statistics
• Personal statement advice: teacher training and education
• Personal statement advice: veterinary medicine
• Personal statement: finance and accounting
• Personal statement advice: architecture, building and planning
• Personal statement advice: art and design
• Personal statement advice: environmental science
• Personal statement advice: marketing
• Personal statement advice: philosophy
• Personal statement advice: photography
• Personal statement advice: physics
• References for mature students

Showing your mathematical motivations

'Maths is like Marmite: you either like it or you don’t': an opening line from one student's maths personal statement, which, while not really revealing anything concrete about that applicant's motivation, does help to illustrate how tricky it can be explaining what exactly you enjoy about the subject.

With a subject like maths at university, motivation is 90% of the battle – so anything that demonstrates your motivation and enthusiasm for the subject will go down well. Here are a few tips from admissions tutors to help with your maths personal statement:

• 'We love to see anything that shows the depth or breadth of your interest in maths, and especially your interests in the subject beyond the A level (or equivalent) syllabus – like any maths books you’ve read, maths clubs you’re part of, or especially any maths challenges you’ve been involved in'.
• The University of Bristol looks for applicants who can show participation and success in mathematical competitions: 'there are many of these competitions, whether local, national, or international, and the more recent your participation and the greater the success you attained, the more weight it carries.'
• 'We like to see a bit of spark and originality. For example, what first inspired your interest in maths, or better still, what currently inspires it?'
• 'Give us a sense of which aspects of maths you especially like and why. Is it algebra, calculus, statistics, or something else?'

How polished your statement needs to be will vary from uni to uni because it’s your mathematical ability and potential that matters most – but as the London School of Economics’ says, 'an original and interesting personal statement which outlines your enthusiasm and motivation is expected.'

What else to include in your maths personal statement

• Your extra-curricular activities: tutors want to know about your sporting, cultural, or community involvement, or anything else you do outside your studies that demonstrates drive, commitment, enthusiasm, and your potential to excel.
• What you'll contribute: uni isn’t just about studying – universities are also communities, and it's great if you can show how you'll contribute to university life.
• Your personality: try to give tutors a sense of your personality through talking about any outside interests that offer an insight into who you are. Bristol is looking for students who 'stand out from the crowd' and are upbeat in their statements.

Try not to be too quirky, but do get your personality across if you can. And most of all, explain why you love maths.

Sponsored articles UCAS Media Service

Do you need to take an english test to study at university in the uk, five reasons to sign up to the ucas newsletter, make the most of your open day.

Home › University › What Degree Should I Study At University? › Want to Study Mathematics? A Sensible Guide to University Level Maths

Want to Study Mathematics? A Sensible Guide to University Level Maths

• Published October 29, 2018

One of the first things that a Mathematics undergraduate will tell a prospective student is that maths at university is entirely different to what you studied at school.

Below we’ve outlined some of the key features of a maths degree and tips on preparing.

Typically students studying maths in high school are taught the method for a particular question which they then apply to practice questions until they get it right most, if not all, the time.

They repeat this as they cycle through different modules within the field of mathematics, gradually increasing the bank of methods that they can apply to a fixed question to answer every question type that might appear on their exam paper .

Your teacher will grade your paper with a tick or a cross with additional marks to show your work. It’s all very methodical, predictable, and accompaniment to the old adage that ‘practice makes perfect.’

Course Modules Vary From Uni to Uni

Maths at the university level is not like this. Even the content of the modules is different; what you consider to be ‘pure’ maths, for example, prime numbers, may be included in an entirely separate module (prime numbers are commonly used in cryptography, so may be included in a related module).

To complicate things even further, each university has its system of compulsory and optional modules and different class sizes and styles.

However, lectures and seminars (sometimes known as tutorials) are usually present in all university courses.

Lectures are generally not interactive and are the elements of a course that students are likely to skip (which is a big mistake).

A lecture theatre may have up to 300 students all listening to a lecturer who will explain some theory and usually a couple of worked examples as part of a presentation. Students are expected to take notes.

At this point, many students put their notes in a “safe place” and panic that they can’t find them the day before exams.

Avoid this stress!

Take detailed notes during the lecture (it helps you pay attention if you’re struggling to stay focused) and as soon as possible afterward, sit down and work through your own practice questions.

What Can You Expect?

Independence of learning is the major difference between secondary and tertiary education and usually disarms first years.

It’s also a significant irritation for university lecturers who find themselves repeating their lectures to young students who are used to being spoon-fed.

It’s not the best way to make a good impression on someone who may be writing a reference for you at some point in the future.

Practicing Is Paramount For Success

Practicing now will also reduce the amount of work you have to do during exam season and make any follow-up tutorials much easier.

You are responsible for ensuring you’ve understood the theory and how it works in practice.

Your tutor will only help you if you have been working on understanding something for a while but have not quite made it. In this case, there is no shame in asking for help.

Seminars are much more of a collaborative process, and while this naturally makes them more engaging, it also means that you have to contribute, so come prepared.

Typically students will be using the theory they have learned in lectures to create proof that the maths does, in fact, work. This is the crucial difference for maths students stepping up to university-level maths.

Mathematical Notation

Rather than accepting that the method and theory are correct, undergraduates must explore the theory’s details and provide evidence that this is sound mathematics by using other mathematical principles.

At this point, you will also be taught what may seem like a new language: notation. You will likely have encountered notation, so it shouldn’t be too alien.

However, at the university level, your notation (symbols and lettering representing your mathematical work) is more likely to come under criticism than your actual mathematical thinking .

This is where the earlier point about practicing the maths taught in lectures comes in.

Engage in seminars

By following, revising, and then applying the mathematics and notation covered in the lecture, you will be able to follow the seminar much more efficiently. Your notation will naturally improve quickly, keeping you on the good side of your lecturers.

Seminars are a time to get stuck in, make mistakes, and then be guided to a solution by your peers or your lecturer.

Engaging in these sessions is important, so try to push beyond the awkward silence that might punctuate the first couple of weeks.

So, now that you understand what to expect, how can you best prepare? It’s impossible to provide one hard and fast rule that will work for all students.

One of the first things you learn at university is that every person is unique and learns in their way.

Top Universities Conduct Maths Admission Exams

Having said that, maths admissions exams provide great insight into university-level maths while also helping you study for your high school exams!

Most of the best math universities in the UK have a maths admissions exam that applicants must take before applying to the university. There are STEPs , MATs, TMUAs, and AEAs.

These are largely the same: they call on your ability to apply maths and logic to a series of questions.

However, they are also a good bridge between secondary- and tertiary-level mathematics; you’ll find they are harder than most of your high school studies.

There are plenty of free online resources for each exam, so download them and start practicing. Anyone applying to a top university must prepare for at least one of these exams, but the sooner you start practicing, the better.

Are You Passionate About Maths?

If you hate every second of the preparation for these exams, you certainly are not alone, but it may also indicate that maths at university is not for you. It’s much better to figure this out before you apply!

All this preparation will work to your advantage, no matter what university you want to apply to.

The practice will allow you to explore university undergraduate degrees with a greater understanding of each module, enabling you to make a more informed decision about which university course you want to study.

Beyond this, the ability to discuss your interests in a more scholarly manner and reference advanced mathematics that you wouldn’t encounter before the university will significantly enhance your personal statement and show just how passionate you are about your subject.

Further reading and learning beyond the core curriculum is exactly what top universities want to see.

Attend the Maths Summer School Programme by Immerse Education

Immerse Education also offers insight into what Mathematics is like at university. Find out more about the unique academic, residential programmes that Immerse runs by visiting our maths summer schools.

Real Alumni Stories

Learn more about our alumni through their success stories.

• Real stories about our Alumni
• Students share their programme experiences
• Case studies from Alumni heading to Oxbridge
• Alumni insights and stats

Empower Your Child's Future: Book Your Complimentary Consultation Now

• Receive tailored advice to match your child's interests and goals.
• Gain insights from our experienced programme consultants.
• Get answers in real-time, making your decision-making process smoother and more informed.

Subscribe to the Immerse Education newsletter for £100 off your programme*

* Terms and Conditions may apply

Download Our Prospectus

• I'm a Parent
• I'm a Student
• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Which subjects interest you? (Optional) Architecture Artificial Intelligence Banking and Finance Biology Biotechnology Business Management Chemistry Coding Computer Science Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Creative Writing Creative Writing and Film Criminology Data Science and Analytics Earth Science Economics Encryption and Cybersecurity Engineering English Literature Entrepreneurship Fashion and Design Female Future Leaders Film Studies Fine Arts Global Society and Sustainability Health and Biotechnology History International Relations Law Marketing and Entertainment Mathematics Medicine Medicine and Health Sciences Nanotechnology Natural Sciences Philosophy Philosophy Politics and Economics Physics Psychology Software Development and AI Software Development and Gaming Veterinary Studies Online Research Programme

Secure priority enrolment for our new summer school location with a small refundable deposit.

" * " indicates required fields

Receive priority enrolment for new summer school locations by registering your interest below.

Our programme consultant will contact you to talk about your options.

• Family Name *
• Phone Number
• Yes. See Privacy Policy.

Subject is unavailable at location

You have selected a subject that is not available at the location that you have previously chosen.

The location filter has been reset, and you are now able to search for all the courses where we offer the subject.

The Uni Guide has a fresh new look

• Teacher training
• Bangor University
• Birmingham City University
• Sheffield Hallam University
• University of Aberdeen
• University of East Anglia
• University of Hull
• University of Kent
• University of Reading
• Clearing and results day
• Preparing for university
• Ucas application
• Student finance
• Student accommodation
• Choosing a course
• A-level results day: what to expect
• A guide to Btec results day
• How Ucas Hub works on results day
• What to say in a Clearing phone call
• 10 tips to help you with Ucas Clearing
• A guide to Clearing 2024
• Which university is right for you?
• What you need to know about getting a university scholarship, grant or bursary
• How to decide on a university course
• Is a higher or degree apprenticeship right for you?
• Universities

By Nik Taylor (Editor, The Uni Guide) | 21 September 2023 | 5 min read

Writing a mathematics personal statement: expert advice from universities

Ace your maths personal statement with these tailored tips from university admissions teams

Share this page

Email & print.

Don’t list out your A-levels

• Read more:  how to write an excellent personal statement in ten steps

Focus on yourself 

• Read more:  how to write your university application

Don’t use quotes unless you’re expanding on them

• Read more:  teacher secrets for writing a great personal statement

Mention any maths-related activities you’ve been involved with outside the classroom

• Read more:  personal statement FAQs

Include your unexpected extracurriculars

• Read more:  the ten biggest mistakes to avoid when writing your personal statement

Don’t make excuses for disappointing grades

• Read more:  universities reveal all about personal statements

If you’re not taking the traditional A-level route to university…

• Read more:  universities explain how to end your personal statement with a bang

Talk about the future

You may want to look at these..., personal statement secrets – universities reveal all.

Want to know how to craft an amazing personal statement? Take some advice from the experts...

How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps

Help and advice on putting your application together

Personal statement FAQs

We've gone through some of the most commonly asked personal statement questions and put all the answers in one place

Related to this article

Search the uni guide, find further advice or search for information on a course or university.

• Search Advice
• Search courses &/or universities

The Uni Guide and The Student Room are both part of The Student Room Group.

Promoted universities

• Durham University
• Lancaster University
• University of Glasgow
• University of the Arts London
• University of Southampton
• Swansea University
• Aston University, Birmingham
• Ulster University
• Cardiff University
• University of Essex

Browse expert advice

• Oxbridge applications
• Personal statements
• University open days
• Ucas deadline 2024 countdown
• A-level choices
• GCSE choices and university
• Making firm and insurance choices
• Student life
• Advice for parents

About this site

• Cookie policy
• List of universities and colleges
• Privacy notice
• Terms and conditions
• Where we get our info

Who we work with

• Your account settings

Ad privacy settings

Popular tools and features

• A-level Explorer
• Course search

Connect with us

Hello! I'm Ronald. I work online as a personal maths tutor 😃

New Blog Post: 2024 MAT and TMUA university admissions testing

University Application Statements, Personal Essays + 10 Tips

This is copied from my old blog (2023), for students applying to universities.

Most of my work is tutoring secondary school maths, including plenty of support with math-adjacent activities. And, right now, it’s University applications season! Read on, for my 10 tips on how to write an excellent Personal Statement or application essay…

I work with students on applications for undergraduate degrees in math and math-related subjects (also Computer Science, Finance, Economics, Data Science, Psychology, Medicine). And, students hoping to continue their university studies with a post-graduate Masters or PhD application. I have students applying across the globe, to universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, LSE, Stanford, Harvard, Amsterdam, Bocconi, etc. Every application will ask for some kind of written essay or “Personal Statement”. You gotta write about yourself, hoping for an offer of a place on the course.

I personally love working on Personal Statements – It’s super-interesting to see what students say about themselves! I like to hear what they want to say at first, when they’re not so confident and feel shy writing about themselves. And then I also love what they submit in the end, when they read it back and feel that buzz of pride in themselves.

How should you write your Personal Statement? I’m always amazed to see what advice is given to students. Well-meaning adults often give bad advice, maybe because they don’t think about what an admissions person will be looking for. I have heard bizarre suggestions that don't work well in practice - sometimes from schoolteachers, and even from the universities themselves!

When we start the journey of writing an application essay, I like to imagine it will end with an admissions tutor who is quite bored of all the personal statements they have to read. They might only properly read the first paragraph and last sentence of what you write (or even less!), without even glancing at the rest of your documents. Even the best admissions processes are run by real people who are not always perfect.

If I am that bored admissions tutor, I just want to read convincing evidence that you are a good student. I want to choose an undergraduate student who won’t have any problem understanding the core modules of the course, and who will get through the three years and will pass the course – ideally, one who I can imagine might just end up with a first class degree.

So, some tips:

1. Write your key academic achievements first and last

The first and last few sentences are most important for your key message. And the key message you want to communicate is "I am a good student for this course". So, say that: In the first paragraph, talk about your recent best successes in academic terms, talk about your A-Levels and predicted grades, say that you're really keen to study more, ideally with the exact name of the course.

2. Write for one course

Normally, you should tailor your application to exactly the course you are applying for - the same as a job application. That means: a new application for each course, using the name of the institution and the name of the course in your writing, and adapting your writing to emphasise the details of that course. For UCAS applications, you can't exactly do that. You may need to "hedge" and write for multiple courses at once. But, try to do it for one course anyway: pick out the course that's your ideal goal, and imagine you are writing for that course specifically. As long as you don't use specific names, your other courses should be similar enough that your application works there too - your writing will automatically have the right vibe.

3. Use key words from the First Year of the course

You want to communicate that you know exactly what course you are applying for and what you'll be doing when you arrive, and using key topic words from the course is a great way to do this. Go to the course website, then go to the first year (or "Core") modules, look at the syllabus for each module, find as much detail as you can, and make a note of the topics that you already know confidently about at the right level. Drop the topics in, as key words, when you talk about your relevant experiences.

4. Don't write poetry

"I first became passionate about Finance when I was seven-years-old!" - it might be tempting to do some creative writing, but nobody wants to read through another application from a math student trying their best to write bad poetry. Writing with good grammar is already enough. Skip the poetry, and put your key point about being a good A-Level student up front instead. Are you an exception to this rule? Probably not. Unless you're applying for English Literature, or get paid for your writing, any attempt at poetic language will get a huge dose of side-eye.

5. Do repeat yourself

You want to make your key points of excellence over and over again (that is - you're a good student for this course), so that someone reading any section of your application will totally get it. This means repeating your key points - probably your most recent academic results and successes, even if you've said that elsewhere in your application. Not your GCSE grades, though, we just don't care that much. Do repeat yourself - even if the university asks you not to. Do repeat yourself. Say again (in another way) how you're a great student for this course.

6. Write your thoughts about one relevant book (post-graduates get one research paper)

You want to pick one relevant book, ideally from a course reading list, and read it! Use one paragraph of your statement to give a little depth about this one book, talk about what you learned and what you found surprising. This works best if it's genuine, so do pick one that you've read, or pick one from a list and get reading. You might be curious to read the whole list if you're really interested in the course, just saying. Don't write this about a second book! You gotta show that you read, but the rest of the space is needed to tell us more about you - so don't turn your personal statement into a literature review.

7. Use extra-curriculars to show teamwork and leadership

Sports and activity clubs are great to talk about, towards the end of your Personal Statement. Take about one paragraph for this. Working together in a team or a club shows teamwork. Starting a club or being involved in a new project or new direction shows leadership. These make great evidence for any kind of application, even if they're not directly connected to your course. You might also get lucky and hit a personal connection with the person reading about you. Definitely worth it.

8. Use the word "I"

It's often understood that scientists and mathematicians and other academics should do their work with no ego: that is, no sense of self. Scientists recognise that they work as a team, building on what others have done before them. Academic literature expects "we" and not "I". There's an ideal that we work for the good of humanity, not for our own recognition. It's beautiful, really. And, it's bad here. I want to hear about you personally - you're supposed to be telling me why *you* are a good student for this course. Therefore, you must use the word "I". Lots of "I". "I did this", "I did that". I promise you should use the word "I".

9. Follow George Orwell's Six Rules for Writing

Some more tips to build confidence in your own writing - these rules will improve your readability. The more readable, the better. Simplified, George Orwell's Six Rules demand that you cut! Cut every single word that doesn't add any meaning or value to your writing. In your first drafts, just write as much as you like in your own style - in fact, write way too many words, if you want. Get all your ideas down onto the page. In later drafts, use Orwell's rules to help you juice down what you've written into the most valuable and meaningful information. Even if you're already under the word count, cutting more words will make your text more readable, and a hypothetically-bored admissions tutor will be grateful. Examples:

"And, additionally, I studied Economics A-Level..." - you can cut the word "additionally" without changing the meaning - so cut it. Then, "And" gets cut as well.

"I first developed a passion for medicine when my best friend broke his arm in the primary school playground..." - doesn't tell us anything about you as a student or your ability to do this course, so it doesn't add value: cut the whole thing.

"My teacher, who I respect, told me to read the book 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell, and I was so fascinated by this experience that it completely changed my view-point regarding Sociology as a subject. I learned that..." - cut! cut! cut! Instead, be concise and direct: "'Animal Farm' by Orwell taught me that..." - (probably) keep!

10. Show, don't tell (mostly)

"Show, don't tell" is a principle of writing that you should show what you mean rather than say it directly - by always giving evidence. Gather together as many different types of evidence as you can. Anyone can say they are a "keen and motivated maths student who studies outside of class", but saying instead that you got "Gold in the UKMT Maths Challenge" is much more convincing - the evidence speaks for itself. If you give evidence, the reader will draw their own conclusions. Maybe they will even make stronger conclusions than the ones you thought of. In a Personal Statement, it's appropriate to "tell" sometimes - by claiming things directly - but try to focus as much as possible on "show": give your evidence.

BONUS TIP - Ask many people to read your final draft; pay attention to anything said by two people Everybody will have an opinion about your writing. But, not everybody has a good or useful opinion. If you ask two people to give you advice on something you've written, they might even give you exactly opposite advice. Confusing. So, if two or more people (independently) tell you the same piece of advice, take that as a strong signal to take action. If only one person tells you, and you're not sure? You can safely ignore them.

ANOTHER BONUS TIP - Write your key academic achievements first and last Remember that a lazy reader might only read the first line, or the last line, so you once again need to say directly that you are a great student. I like to see a short-and-cheesy last paragraph, to remind the reader that you're first-and-foremost a keen-and-good student. You're allowed to use one cliché in the essay, at the very end: "I'm looking forward to the opportunity to study Fractal Galaxies at Sunnydale University".

Do you want some personal help with your university applications? I do that as part of my tutoring work! Write to me at [email protected] and we can arrange a pack of sessions.

Math Essay Ideas for Students: Exploring Mathematical Concepts

Are you a student who's been tasked with writing a math essay? Don't fret! While math may seem like an abstract and daunting subject, it's actually full of fascinating concepts waiting to be explored. In this article, we'll delve into some exciting math essay ideas that will not only pique your interest but also impress your teachers. So grab your pens and calculators, and let's dive into the world of mathematics!

• The Beauty of Fibonacci Sequence

Have you ever wondered why sunflowers, pinecones, and even galaxies exhibit a mesmerizing spiral pattern? It's all thanks to the Fibonacci sequence! Explore the origin, properties, and real-world applications of this remarkable mathematical sequence. Discuss how it manifests in nature, art, and even financial markets. Unveil the hidden beauty behind these numbers and show how they shape the world around us.

• The Mathematics of Music

Did you know that music and mathematics go hand in hand? Dive into the relationship between these two seemingly unrelated fields and develop your writing skills . Explore the connection between harmonics, frequencies, and mathematical ratios. Analyze how musical scales are constructed and why certain combinations of notes create pleasant melodies while others may sound dissonant. Explore the fascinating world where numbers and melodies intertwine.

• The Geometry of Architecture

Architects have been using mathematical principles for centuries to create awe-inspiring structures. Explore the geometric concepts that underpin iconic architectural designs. From the symmetry of the Parthenon to the intricate tessellations in Islamic art, mathematics plays a crucial role in creating visually stunning buildings. Discuss the mathematical principles architects employ and how they enhance the functionality and aesthetics of their designs.

• Fractals: Nature's Infinite Complexity

Step into the mesmerizing world of fractals, where infinite complexity arises from simple patterns. Did you know that the famous Mandelbrot set , a classic example of a fractal, has been studied extensively and generated using computers? In fact, it is estimated that the Mandelbrot set requires billions of calculations to generate just a single image! This showcases the computational power and mathematical precision involved in exploring the beauty of fractal geometry.

Explore the beauty and intricacy of fractal geometry, from the famous Mandelbrot set to the Sierpinski triangle. Discuss the self-similarity and infinite iteration that define fractals and how they can be found in natural phenomena such as coastlines, clouds, and even in the structure of our lungs. Examine how fractal mathematics is applied in computer graphics, art, and the study of chaotic systems. Let the captivating world of fractals unfold before your eyes.

• The Game Theory Revolution

Game theory isn't just about playing games; it's a powerful tool used in various fields, from economics to biology. Dive into the world of strategic decision-making and explore how game theory helps us understand human behavior and predict outcomes. Discuss in your essay classic games like The Prisoner's Dilemma and examine how mathematical models can shed light on complex social interactions. Explore the cutting-edge applications of game theory in diverse fields, such as cybersecurity and evolutionary biology. If you still have difficulties choosing an idea for a math essay, find a reliable expert online. Ask them to write me an essay or provide any other academic assistance with your math assignments.

• Chaos Theory and the Butterfly Effect

While writing an essay, explore the fascinating world of chaos theory and how small changes can lead to big consequences. Discuss the famous Butterfly Effect and how it exemplifies the sensitive dependence on initial conditions. Delve into the mathematical principles behind chaotic systems and their applications in weather forecasting, population dynamics, and cryptography. Unravel the hidden order within apparent randomness and showcase the far-reaching implications of chaos theory.

• The Mathematics Behind Cryptography

In an increasingly digital world, cryptography plays a vital role in ensuring secure communication and data protection. Did you know that the global cybersecurity market is projected to reach a staggering $248.26 billion by 2023? This statistic emphasizes the growing importance of cryptography in safeguarding sensitive information.

Explore the mathematical foundations of cryptography and how it allows for the creation of unbreakable codes and encryption algorithms. Discuss the concepts of prime numbers, modular arithmetic, and public-key cryptography. Delve into the fascinating history of cryptography, from ancient times to modern-day encryption methods. In your essay, highlight the importance of mathematics in safeguarding sensitive information and the ongoing challenges faced by cryptographers.

Writing a math essay doesn't have to be a daunting task. By choosing a captivating topic and exploring the various mathematical concepts, you can turn your essay into a fascinating journey of discovery. Whether you're uncovering the beauty of the Fibonacci sequence, exploring the mathematical underpinnings of music, or delving into the game theory revolution, there's a world of possibilities waiting to be explored. So embrace the power of mathematics and let your creativity shine through your words!

Remember, these are just a few math essay ideas to get you started. Feel free to explore other mathematical concepts that ignite your curiosity. The world of mathematics is vast, and each concept has its own unique story to tell. So go ahead, unleash your inner mathematician, and embark on an exciting journey through the captivating realm of mathematical ideas!

Tobi Columb, a math expert, is a dedicated educator and explorer. He is deeply fascinated by the infinite possibilities of mathematics. Tobi's mission is to equip his students with the tools needed to excel in the realm of numbers. He also advocates for the benefits of a gluten-free lifestyle for students and people of all ages. Join Tobi on his transformative journey of mathematical mastery and holistic well-being.

Related Calculators

In case you have any suggestion, or if you would like to report a broken solver/calculator, please do not hesitate to contact us .

log in to your account

Reset password.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

A Guide to the Different Math Majors in College

Math majors are a diverse bunch. Pure math majors wrestle with mathematical theories and concepts to create elegant proofs. Applied math majors take the concepts learned in the classroom and apply them to real-world situations, in sectors across a wide range of industries. 

Potential math majors have several options for their specific field of study, as “math” can mean anything from pure math to statistics to computer science. 

If you’re interested in earning a math degree, but unsure which math major to choose, keep reading for insight into the various majors and career paths certain degrees can set you on. 

What Can You Do With a Math Major in College?

Aside from the obvious skills developed in earning a math degree—such as an understanding of numbers, equations, and methodology—the study of math also nurtures other important skill sets that are applicable to a broad spectrum of fields. Critical and analytical thought top the list of skills that math majors possess, as do problem solving and quantitative reasoning. Cumulatively, these skills allow math majors to form and manipulate complex ideas, construct logical arguments, and take apart illogical ones. 

Who Should Major in Math in College?

Students who enjoyed (and were successful in) high school math classes are good candidates to become math majors in college. This is particularly true for students who took high-level and advanced placement math courses. Math majors in college typically possess an affinity for problem solving, and are not deterred when answers don’t appear easily—a willingness to wrestle through challenging questions is a must.

Math majors will study a wide breadth of mathematical topics, as most math programs have undergraduates take classes in everything from algebra to calculus to geometry. Much of this coursework occurs over a series of classes in these fields, with each one building on the previous class. Math is not a solitary field; the most successful students are team players, good communicators, and willing to work within a team or with TAs and professors to solve tricky problems and concepts. 

Different Types of Math Majors

While there is the general math major, there are several other types of majors that might be offered under the math department. These degrees allow students to follow specific interests and prepare them for the unique needs of the fields they hope to enter. 

This list includes some of the most common specialties offered in math departments, including applied math, pure math, statistics, and computer science. We won’t be covering majors like Finance, Physics, or Economics, as these often are offered through other departments.

Applied Mathematics 

A degree in applied mathematics is a common course for students hoping to pursue careers in engineering, science, and computers, as it provides students with the functional knowledge necessary to apply mathematical ideas and techniques to problems. Many applied mathematics programs are designed for flexibility, allowing individuals to shape their coursework toward their areas of interest. Computer savviness  is required of applied mathematics majors since computational methods and application of algorithms are key components of coursework. 

Applied mathematics majors can expect to take classes such as: 

• Numerical analysis
• Optimization theory
• Differential equations
• Linear algebra
• Computer science
• Computational mathematics
• Systems design

Because of the flexible nature of applied mathematics, a degree in the field can lead to a career in a wide range of industries, while also laying the foundation for many students to further their education in graduate programs. 

Common careers for applied mathematics degree holders include: 

• Financial analyst or advisor 
• Researcher 
• Statistician

Pure Mathematics 

Students studying pure mathematics develop an understanding of the concepts and structures that underlie all mathematics. Over the course of their study, they will work in mathematical fields such as algebra, analysis, and geometry, along with developing core competencies such as problem solving, critical thinking, and modeling. 

Pure mathematics majors can expect to take classes such as: 

• Discrete Mathematics
• Analysis (real and complex)
• Multivariable calculus
• Geometry/Topology 

The problem-solving and analytical skills possessed by those holding a degree in pure mathematics opens doors in many industries. Common fields to find pure mathematics degree holders in are: 

• Medical and scientific research 

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.

Computer Science 

Students graduating with degrees in computer science have the ability to solve complex problems using computer-based tools, such as software and artificial intelligence. Computer science students are required to use a solid base of math skills to form probabilities and create statistical models. All types of personalities are attracted to the field of computer science—some are excited by the possibility of long days in the lab developing new algorithms, while others are drawn to the idea of working as a team on projects, like developing autonomous driving cars.

Computer science majors can expect to take classes such as: 

• Programming 
• Algorithms 
• Data structures 
• Programming languages 
• Operating systems 
• Computer science theory 

Computer science is not only a rewarding major, it’s also one of the most financially beneficial—in 2017, CBS ranked it the most lucrative college major . Some jobs that are typically filled by computer science majors include: 

• Computer engineer
• Information system professional 
• Human-computer interaction (HCI) professional
• Information technical specialist 
• Software engineer
• Computer scientist 

Statistics 

At the heart of quantitative reasoning there is statistics—students studying statistics in college learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret data. Additionally, students learn how to effectively communicate and present data-based arguments and conclusions. Possessing an in-demand skill set, students graduating with a degree in statistics will find opportunities in all sectors, from government to business and industry to universities and research labs.

Common coursework for statistic majors includes classes such as: 

• Linear algebra 
• Probability 
• Applied statistics 
• Theoretical statics 
• Statistical computing 

Because statistics has a huge amount of practical applications, there are a multitude of career paths available to holders of a degree in statistics. Common careers include:

• Business Analyst
• Cost Estimator
• Database Administrator
• Data Scientist
• Financial Analyst
• Market Researcher
• Software Engineer

Be sure to also check out these posts:

The 10 Easiest and 10 Hardest Majors

Easiest and Hardest Engineering Majors

Easiest and Hardest Science Majors

Luckily for high school students interested in becoming a math major in college, you don’t need a statistics degree to know your chances of acceptance at your dream school. Our free chancing engine can tell you your odds of admission at over 500 colleges. Sign up for your CollegeVine account today to put this powerful tool to work for you.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Essay and dissertation writing skills

Planning your essay

Writing your introduction

Structuring your essay

• Writing essays in science subjects
• Brief video guides to support essay planning and writing
• Writing extended essays and dissertations
• Planning your dissertation writing time

Structuring your dissertation

• Top tips for writing longer pieces of work

Advice on planning and writing essays and dissertations

University essays differ from school essays in that they are less concerned with what you know and more concerned with how you construct an argument to answer the question. This means that the starting point for writing a strong essay is to first unpick the question and to then use this to plan your essay before you start putting pen to paper (or finger to keyboard).

A really good starting point for you are these short, downloadable Tips for Successful Essay Writing and Answering the Question resources. Both resources will help you to plan your essay, as well as giving you guidance on how to distinguish between different sorts of essay questions. 

You may find it helpful to watch this seven-minute video on six tips for essay writing which outlines how to interpret essay questions, as well as giving advice on planning and structuring your writing:

Different disciplines will have different expectations for essay structure and you should always refer to your Faculty or Department student handbook or course Canvas site for more specific guidance.

However, broadly speaking, all essays share the following features:

Essays need an introduction to establish and focus the parameters of the discussion that will follow. You may find it helpful to divide the introduction into areas to demonstrate your breadth and engagement with the essay question. You might define specific terms in the introduction to show your engagement with the essay question; for example, ‘This is a large topic which has been variously discussed by many scientists and commentators. The principal tension is between the views of X and Y who define the main issues as…’ Breadth might be demonstrated by showing the range of viewpoints from which the essay question could be considered; for example, ‘A variety of factors including economic, social and political, influence A and B. This essay will focus on the social and economic aspects, with particular emphasis on…..’

Watch this two-minute video to learn more about how to plan and structure an introduction:

The main body of the essay should elaborate on the issues raised in the introduction and develop an argument(s) that answers the question. It should consist of a number of self-contained paragraphs each of which makes a specific point and provides some form of evidence to support the argument being made. Remember that a clear argument requires that each paragraph explicitly relates back to the essay question or the developing argument.

• Conclusion: An essay should end with a conclusion that reiterates the argument in light of the evidence you have provided; you shouldn’t use the conclusion to introduce new information.
• References: You need to include references to the materials you’ve used to write your essay. These might be in the form of footnotes, in-text citations, or a bibliography at the end. Different systems exist for citing references and different disciplines will use various approaches to citation. Ask your tutor which method(s) you should be using for your essay and also consult your Department or Faculty webpages for specific guidance in your discipline. 

Essay writing in science subjects

If you are writing an essay for a science subject you may need to consider additional areas, such as how to present data or diagrams. This five-minute video gives you some advice on how to approach your reading list, planning which information to include in your answer and how to write for your scientific audience – the video is available here:

A PDF providing further guidance on writing science essays for tutorials is available to download.

Short videos to support your essay writing skills

There are many other resources at Oxford that can help support your essay writing skills and if you are short on time, the Oxford Study Skills Centre has produced a number of short (2-minute) videos covering different aspects of essay writing, including:

• Approaching different types of essay questions  
• Structuring your essay  
• Writing an introduction  
• Making use of evidence in your essay writing  
• Writing your conclusion

Extended essays and dissertations

Longer pieces of writing like extended essays and dissertations may seem like quite a challenge from your regular essay writing. The important point is to start with a plan and to focus on what the question is asking. A PDF providing further guidance on planning Humanities and Social Science dissertations is available to download.

Planning your time effectively

Try not to leave the writing until close to your deadline, instead start as soon as you have some ideas to put down onto paper. Your early drafts may never end up in the final work, but the work of committing your ideas to paper helps to formulate not only your ideas, but the method of structuring your writing to read well and conclude firmly.

Although many students and tutors will say that the introduction is often written last, it is a good idea to begin to think about what will go into it early on. For example, the first draft of your introduction should set out your argument, the information you have, and your methods, and it should give a structure to the chapters and sections you will write. Your introduction will probably change as time goes on but it will stand as a guide to your entire extended essay or dissertation and it will help you to keep focused.

The structure of  extended essays or dissertations will vary depending on the question and discipline, but may include some or all of the following:

• The background information to - and context for - your research. This often takes the form of a literature review.
• Explanation of the focus of your work.
• Explanation of the value of this work to scholarship on the topic.
• List of the aims and objectives of the work and also the issues which will not be covered because they are outside its scope.

The main body of your extended essay or dissertation will probably include your methodology, the results of research, and your argument(s) based on your findings.

The conclusion is to summarise the value your research has added to the topic, and any further lines of research you would undertake given more time or resources. 

Tips on writing longer pieces of work

Approaching each chapter of a dissertation as a shorter essay can make the task of writing a dissertation seem less overwhelming. Each chapter will have an introduction, a main body where the argument is developed and substantiated with evidence, and a conclusion to tie things together. Unlike in a regular essay, chapter conclusions may also introduce the chapter that will follow, indicating how the chapters are connected to one another and how the argument will develop through your dissertation.

For further guidance, watch this two-minute video on writing longer pieces of work . 

Systems & Services

Access Student Self Service

• Student Self Service
• Self Service guide
• Registration guide
• Libraries search
• OXCORT - see TMS
• GSS - see Student Self Service
• The Careers Service
• Oxford University Sport
• Online store
• Gardens, Libraries and Museums
• Researchers Skills Toolkit
• LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com)
• Access Guide
• Lecture Lists
• Exam Papers (OXAM)
• Oxford Talks

Latest student news

CAN'T FIND WHAT YOU'RE LOOKING FOR?

Try our extensive database of FAQs or submit your own question...

Ask a question

What can you do with a mathematics degree?

Why should you study maths at college, what jobs can you get, and how hard is it to get a place.

What jobs can you get with a mathematics degree? 

Mathematics graduates have advanced numerical skills, including statistics, probability, algorithms, economics and data analysis. Many graduates pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and analytics. 

Some common careers for mathematics graduates include:  

• Computer scientist  
• Data analyst  
• Economist  
• Financial planning  
• Inventory manager  
• Investment analyst  
• Mathematician  
• Mechanical engineer  
• Purchasing specialist  
• Research analyst  
• Tax consultant  

What is mathematics?

In education systems across the globe, from primary to higher education learning institutions, there is one constant subject, a language universally spoken: mathematics.

A basic definition of mathematics (or maths, or math, depending where you are in the world) is that it is an education in numeric sciences, using a range of different approaches including algebra, calculus and basic arithmetic. While mathematics is a key element of subjects ranging from economics to physics, maths as a university subject often focuses on understanding and testing theories in mathematical and scientific discourse - or"pure mathematics".

Mathematicians can come to both an understanding of the universe’s building blocks in fields such as quantum mechanics, and have the chance to be educated in fascinating theorems and abstract concepts, which teach students a number of applicable skills that are transferable across a number of professional fields.

Best universities for physics, chemistry and maths degrees Best universities in the US for physical science degrees Best universities in the UK for physical science degrees Best universities in Australia for physical science degrees Best universities for physical science degrees in Canada

What do you learn on a mathematics degree?

Within a maths degree, a student may expect to find a higher level of contact hours in the first year of study, as professors work with students to ensure an understanding of the core modules and concepts being discussed in lectures and seminars.

A typical course for a first year undergraduate will be an introduction to abstract algebra, as well as fields such as non-linear differential equations. Later years in the degree will see a greater level of freedom as students will pick from a wider selection of modules and explore in greater depth the areas of mathematics that appeal to them.

Maths degrees are increasingly becoming more digital, interlinking with computer science through modules such as symbolic computation and automated theorem proving. 

Maths is also an ideal joint honours subject, as its teachings can be a foundation for study in computer science, engineering and statistics among others. For an undergraduate course, a typical course length would be three years, though this may be four in countries such as the United States, or if the course includes a year abroad study or a sandwich work placement.

What should I study if I want to study mathematics?

Maths is not a subject that can be taken up at university, and will be taught on the assumption that students will have a concrete understanding of basic concepts in maths and applied mathematics before beginning a course.

Universities typically accept students who have done well in maths at school and further education level before applying. Universities will look at aptitude in related school subjects such as the traditional sciences (such as chemistry).

It is also important that language and writing skills are not neglected, as many courses will include lengthy essay assignments. 

What can you do with an architecture degree? What can you do with a design degree? What can you do with an art degree? What can you do with a medicine degree? What can you do with a biology degree? What can you do with a veterinary science degree? What can you do with a chemical engineering degree? What can you do with a business degree?

What do people who study mathematics do after graduation?

 All kinds of employers will value the data analysis skills and the innovative, original thinking that can be taught in a maths degree.

Dionne O'Brien studied mathematics at the University of Cambridge , where she specialised in abstract algebra and and graph theory. "I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do after I left university but I had decided against going into research. This meant it was unlikely I would be using the abstract maths I was specialising in in my future career," she says. 

"What I liked about studying mathematics was the feeling of understanding then solving puzzles. I wanted a job that would give me that same feeling, but where I would also get to interact with lots of different people," she adds.

Now, Dionne works as a technical consultant for the application building platform Appian. The role requires a mixture of communication and teamwork skills and the ability to understand technical problems and come up with technical solutions. 

"Both sides of my job have parallels with solving a problem in mathematics; it takes time to understand and map out what the client wants, then you have to work out the neatest, most efficient way to create that with the tools available. One of the most useful skills I learnt at university is the ability to persist with new concepts, that initially seemed complex, until I understood them," she adds. 

There are many career options available for maths graduates in including investment analysts, tax advisors, economists, data analysts, teachers and many others. 

In a position such as an actuary or chartered accountant, a mathematics degree is only a first step, as qualifications for these professions require years of further training and examination. 

Maths is also a subject closely interlinked to statistical analysis. This presents job opportunities in social research such as the compilation of survey and polling data, as well as in scientific studies in fields such as geography and medical statistics. While this work can be a source of full time employment following a bachelor’s degree, many institutes also offer postdoctoral positions as a research fellow or equivalent. 

There is also a clear pathway from the computer based skills learned in a mathematics degree to an IT or software development based career. Many video games programmers come from a maths background, combining creativity with technical aptitude to develop products in one of the fastest growing industries today. Security agencies will also employ a team of trained mathematicians, who will be using some of the most powerful computers in the world to develop cryptography and internet security. 

Famous people who studied mathematics

Among the most well-known people ever to take a maths degree is Albert Einstein, who at the age of 17 was already on a mathematics teaching programme at ETH Zurich .

Among many other notable maths pioneers is Emmy Noether, who studied the subject at Erlangen University and went on to make seminal contributions to physics and abstract algebra.

A maths degree can also be a springboard to entrepreneurial success, such as Sergey Brin who studied at the Stanford University .

Other famous mathematicians include model Cindy Crawford, who studied the subject at Northwestern University and former professional wrestler and star of The A Team, Mr. T, majored in the subject at Prairie View A&M University .

Register free and enjoy extra benefits

do you write essays in maths degrees?

Quick Reply

Related discussions.

• Maths and Philosophy?
• Can I do economics at uni without economics a level?
• What is in both of these degrees - biomed/pharmacy
• How important is English at A levels for Law?
• Unnecessary foundation Year
• chemistry or economics a level
• economics or history degree?
• A-level options for law at oxford
• Is my A-Level combination good for me? PLEASEEE ADVICE
• A level choices - keeping degree options open
• IB Subject Choices for Law
• Fourth A level Subject
• A-Level Further Maths vs English Lit
• is this a level combo good for a Law Degree (UCL?)
• Econ at uni, maths or essays?
• Importance of A level options.
• Can I become a good lawyer?
• A-Level combinations for history
• A-level options for high achieving student
• A-Level advice for Economics at a top uni

Last reply 3 hours ago

Last reply 1 day ago

Last reply 2 days ago

Last reply 4 days ago

Last reply 6 days ago

Last reply 1 week ago

Last reply 2 weeks ago

Last reply 3 weeks ago

Posted 3 weeks ago

Last reply 4 weeks ago

Articles for you

I want to go to uni but I don't know what to study

International Baccalaureate (IB) students: applying to university

Finding a university place in Ucas Clearing 2024: 10 top tips to help you get ready

Top 10 tips for Ucas Clearing 2024

Try out the app

Continue on web

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

Capitalization Rules: Writing About Academic Subjects

• 2-minute read
• 4th July 2022

Whether or not you capitalize words can determine the meaning you convey through your writing. While there are several capitalization rules across topics, as a student , you’ll probably often write about academic subjects, so we’ve put together a guide to help you decide when to capitalize subjects.

Common vs. Proper Nouns

Determining whether to capitalize a subject comes down to whether you’re using it as a common or proper noun.

When you’re writing in general terms, academic subjects don’t need capitalization because they’re common nouns , which aren’t specific to any person, place, or thing:

She was really looking forward to taking math next semester because it was her favorite subject.

Are you ready for our engineering test on Friday?

This includes all core academic subjects, like math, science, history, and art, as well as more specialized subjects, like psychology , engineering, education , exercise science, or law .

This rule doesn’t apply to language subjects, which are always capitalized because they’re proper nouns , which refer to a person, place, or thing:

He took a Spanish class to help him when he traveled abroad during the summer break.

She took Conversational French 101 but still couldn’t speak any of the language.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

Similarly, once you start writing about specific courses or degrees, the subjects are capitalized because they’re proper nouns:

She was really looking forward to taking Calculus 1 next semester because math was her favorite subject.

The last class I have to take before graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology is Statistics in Psychology .

It’s also helpful to know that degrees (bachelor’s, master’s, etc.) follow the same rules, as they’re only capitalized when they refer to a specific degree.

Proofreading & Editing

When writing, it helps to think about how specific you want your message to be. As you can see, we only had to capitalize subjects when we specifically identified them.

If you’d like to make sure you’re properly capitalizing words, we have expert editors who can help make sure your writing is clear and error-free! You can learn more by submitting a free trial document .

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

5-minute read

Free Email Newsletter Template

Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...

6-minute read

How to Write a Nonprofit Grant Proposal

If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

4-minute read

Five Creative Ways to Showcase Your Digital Portfolio

Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

• a. Send us an email
• b. Anonymous form
• Buyer's Guide
• Upcoming Products
• Tips / Contact Us
• Podcast Instagram Facebook Twitter Mastodon YouTube Notifications RSS Newsletter

iOS 18: Use Math Notes in the Calculator App

In iOS 18, Apple has added a powerful new feature to your iPhone's Calculator app: Math Notes. This integration between Calculator and Notes offers a versatile tool for all your calculation needs. It's particularly handy for splitting bills, calculating group expenses, or working through more complex mathematical problems.

Here's how you can start using Math Notes in the Calculator app in iOS 18:

• Open the Calculator app on your iPhone.
• Tap the calculator symbol at the bottom left of the screen.

• Tap the new note symbol in the bottom right corner.

You're not limited to accessing Math Notes through the Calculator app – you can also use the feature directly within the Notes app using any new or existing note.

If you need to switch back to the standard calculator while using Math Notes, simply tap the calculator icon again and choose either Basic or Scientific mode.

You can in fact get Math Notes results almost anywhere in the operating system. If you type an equation into search, for example, you'll get a result, and the same goes for apps like Messages.

Math Notes on iPad

In ‌iPadOS 18‌, Math Notes works in the same way, but there is an added bonus - you can use an Apple Pencil. Once you start a Math Note from the Calculator app or the Notes app, you can write your equations by hand and have them solved in the exact same way.

Get weekly top MacRumors stories in your inbox.

Popular Stories

iOS 18 Available Now With These 8 New Features For Your iPhone

Here's When iOS 18 Rolls Out Today in Every Time Zone

M4 Macs, New iPad Mini, and iPad 11 Expected at Upcoming Apple Event

Apple Leaks New Mac Mini With 5 USB-C Ports

iPhone 16 Pro Demand Has Been Lower Than Expected, Analyst Says

10 Reasons to Wait for Next Year's iPhone 17

Next article.

iOS 18 brings major changes to the Messages app, with Apple adding several fun features.

The Photos app redesign has been one of the most controversial changes that Apple made in iOS 18.

iOS 18 is an update designed for the iPhone, but it adds several new features to the AirPods

The Phone app doesn't often get updated, but with iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence, it's getting a major overhaul.

Updates to Mail, Photos, Messages, and more, with Apple Intelligence features throughout.

iPhone Mirroring, Safari improvements, new Passwords app, and Apple Intelligence features throughout.

Apple Intelligence features, Smart Script handwriting refinement, Calculator app, and more.

New hand gestures, rearrange apps in Home View, larger Mac Virtual Display, and more.

Other Stories

3 hours ago by Joe Rossignol

8 hours ago by Tim Hardwick

10 hours ago by Tim Hardwick

10 hours ago by Joe Rossignol

11 hours ago by Tim Hardwick