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Portsmouth is the only University in the UK with the flexibility to choose when to do an optional paid placement or self-employed year. Either take a placement in your third year, or finish your studies first and complete a placement in your fourth year. You can decide if and when to take a placement after you've started your course.

Mathematics and statistics underpin processes that keep society functioning. Clinical trials analysing life-threatening illnesses, supermarkets managing their product buying and distribution, and insurance companies assessing their exposure to risks all use sophisticated statistical models.You'll build the analytical abilities you need to make sense of the vast amount of data available to organisations so they can make faster, smarter decisions. You'll discover how to apply mathematical models to the study of biology and infectious diseases, and model operational research solutions to areas such as planning, scheduling, forecasting and supply chain management.At the end of the course, you'll have taken the first steps towards becoming a Chartered Mathematician, and be set for a career in industries such as government research, finance, healthcare and marketing.

- Develop your knowledge of fundamental topics such as mathematical models, statistical theory and methods, operational research and quantitative supply chain management- Choose specialist modules that match your interests and career ambitions, such as mathematics for finance, astrophysics, cosmology, financial derivative pricing and decision modelling - Learn to use industry-standard mathematical, statistical and operational research software- Apply your skills on optional work placements in the community, such as assisting math teachers in local schools- Learn from renowned researchers such as Dr Jamie Foster, who's calculated the formula to the perfect cup of coffee by modelling the brewing process – an efficient solution that could reduce waste and make the process more sustainable

This course is accredited by the Institution of Mathematics and Its Applications (IMA).

A degree in mathematics shows that you have the ability to think analytically and conveys an intellectual maturity that many employers look for when they hire staff.You'll graduate with the skills and understanding to work in many related areas, including:- mathematical modelling- marketing- manufacturing- government research- retail management- the police and armed servicesOur graduates have worked for companies such as:- Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research- Eddie Stobart Logistics- Lloyds Banking- Babcock International Group- Tata Consultancy ServicesOur graduates now work in roles including:- data scientist- trainee accountant- business analyst- teacher- medical statistician

Taking an optional placement year gives you the experience you need to increase your chances of landing your perfect role after graduation. You could work in a paid role in a professional organisation or set up your own business, giving you the chance to grow your professional network and enhance your CV. We'll give you all the support you need to find a placement that prepares you for your career, and we'll continue to mentor you throughout your placement.Previous students have taken placement roles such as:- logistics intern- data analyst- business internThey've completed placements at organisations including:- Office for National Statistics- Rolls Royce- BMW