Mathematics/Scottish History

Mathematics and Scottish History is a combination that might seem unusual at first glance, but it rests on a coherent intellectual logic. Mathematics develops rigorous analytical thinking, the ability to model complex systems and comfort with abstraction, skills that transfer far beyond the discipline itself. Scottish History, meanwhile, opens up a rich and distinctive national narrative, from the medieval Kingdom of Scotland through the Reformation, the Union, the Enlightenment and industrialisation to the modern devolved era, while also connecting to the broader currents of European and Atlantic history.

At the University of Glasgow, the four-year full-time MA programme allows you to develop genuine depth in both subjects. The mathematics component covers pure and applied mathematics, building the rigorous foundations that characterise the discipline. The Scottish History strand develops your historical thinking and research skills through engagement with primary sources, historiographical debate and the distinctive political, religious, cultural and economic history of Scotland.

The degree includes a year abroad, which offers the opportunity to study both subjects in a different academic context, and the ambassador scheme provides an early taste of teaching in schools for those who are considering an educational career.

The combination of mathematical and historical skills is genuinely versatile. Mathematical training is valued in finance, data science, technology, actuarial work and research. Historical training is valued in education, the civil service, law, journalism, heritage and the professions.

Graduates who hold both are well placed for a range of careers that value both analytical precision and contextual understanding. Postgraduate study in mathematics, history, education or a related field is a natural continuation.