Mathematics with Computer Science

Mathematics with Computer Science is a degree that takes the analytical rigour and abstract power of mathematics and combines it with the algorithmic thinking and systems knowledge of computer science, producing graduates who can work at the intersection of formal mathematical reasoning and practical computational problem-solving. Pure and applied mathematics provide the theoretical foundations, while computer science contributes key concepts in algorithms, data structures, software systems, and computation itself, many of which have deep mathematical roots.

At Heriot-Watt University, this four-year, full-time degree develops fundamental ideas in pure and applied mathematics together with key concepts in computer science. The programme is weighted predominantly towards mathematics, covering approximately three quarters of the curriculum, with computer science making up the remaining quarter. This weighting produces graduates with a strong mathematical foundation who also possess genuine computational knowledge, rather than a superficial treatment of either subject.

The course fosters intellectual skills of analytical reasoning, systematic problem-solving, and the clear communication of ideas across both disciplines.

Graduates with this combination are particularly well placed for roles that require mathematical depth and computational capability, including actuarial analysis, financial modelling, data science, software engineering in technically demanding environments, algorithm design, and academic research in mathematics or theoretical computer science. The mathematical grounding is also valued in quantitative finance, scientific computing, and cryptography. Many graduates proceed to postgraduate study in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or data science, where the foundations built here open the door to advanced and specialised work.