Mathematics, Operational Research and Statistics with a Professional Placement Year (MMORS)

Core knowledge is taught through a mixture of lectures, exercise classes, small-group tutorials and guided study. Mathematics is a hierarchical discipline so the structure of the course is systematic, building on fundamental understanding. Increased independent learning is encouraged throughout the course.

In all years the classes are used to discuss theoretical concepts and essential mathematical techniques. You are encouraged to undertake additional reading outside of timetabled classes and reflect upon assessments and feedback.

The first two years are focussed on providing a foundational understanding.  The final two years cover a range of contemporary subject material, reflecting research interests in the School. Throughout the delivery of the programme, wherever possible, recent research results are used to illustrate and illuminate the subject.

In year one there are regular small-group tutorial sessions in all mathematics modules. Exercises are an integral part of all lecture-based modules, and these allow you to apply your knowledge and improve your problem-solving skills. Extra exercise or examples classes are currently held in all mathematics modules. In these a lecturer will discuss additional problems with you, give general oral feedback and model solutions for further reflection.

In year five, more student participation is expected as some lectures take the form of seminars.

How will I be supported?

At the start of each year you will be given a guide to module aims, learning outcomes, methods of assessment, module syllabuses, and reading lists. You will be allocated a personal tutor, a member of the academic staff who will provide pastoral support and academic advice during your course.

All lecturing staff can be contacted by email and have either an ‘open door’ policy for students with specific queries about course material, or a system to book meeting times. The School’s Director of Learning and Teaching of the School of Mathematics can advise you on academic issues, and each year of study has a year co-ordinator able to advise on administrative issues.

Further learning support is also available via the University wide Maths Support Service. This provides relaxed and informal daily drop-in sessions where students are encouraged to discuss any elements of their studies with a tutor on a one-to-one or small group basis.

While on placement, you will be visited a minimum of two times by Academic staff and Professional Services staff. There are named points of contact should you have any questions or problems. 

How will I be assessed?

Many modules have written examinations at the end of the autumn or spring Semesters, with some also having an element of continuous assessment. This may include problem-solving exercises, written reports, computer programs and oral presentations.  Feedback on progress is typically provided through a combination of discussion in class, written comments on submitted work and review of outline solutions to problems. You are encouraged to discuss any queries related to specific modules with individual lecturers.

The Professional Placement year is assessed via a combination of a report, a poster and an oral presentation. You are required to reflect upon and provide evidence for your progress in the areas of Professional Standards, Communication and Information Management, Leadership, Professional Development, Working with Others, and Managing Customer Relations. You submit monthly formative journal entries for which feedback will be provided, thereby monitoring your progress.

Feedback:

Written feedback and outline solutions on in-course assessment give you an opportunity to reflect on your progress. Further feedback is provided in examples classes and tutorials (in Year One) to review problems in more detail and discuss potential solutions. You should discuss any queries related to specific modules with individual lecturers. There are a number of further feedback mechanisms in place to support your study; please see “How will I be supported?” below.

What skills will I practise and develop?

The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will be able to do as a result of your study at Cardiff University. They will help you to understand what is expected of you. 

The Learning Outcomes for this Programme can be found below:

Knowledge & Understanding:

On successful completion of the Programme you will be able to demonstrate:

• An analytical approach to problem solving
• An understanding of the ideas of proof, calculus, algebra, analysis and applied mathematics
• An enhanced understanding of abstract mathematical concepts, logical arguments and deductive reasoning
• Mathematical reasoning and manipulation
• An ability to analyse and interpret data and to apply modern statistical methods
• An ability to use some cutting edge operational research techniques to solve real life problems
• An understanding of the underlying principles and mathematical theories underpinning modern statistics and operational research

The Placement additionally allows you to demonstrate:

• Experience of applying mathematical concepts in an industrial environment
• Awareness of professional and ethical responsibilities
• Commitment to professional standards

Intellectual Skills:

On successful completion of the Programme you will be able to demonstrate:

• The ability to formulate and solve mathematical models
• The skills of using analytical and logical thinking to draw conclusions based on quantitative information.
• Communication skills and the ability to communicate mathematical knowledge and understanding.
• Plan and conduct a piece of novel research

The Placement year additionally allows you to demonstrate:

• Self-reflection and motivation
• Leadership
• Self-direction in solving unseen problems

Professional Practical Skills:

On successful completion of the Programme you will be able to demonstrate: 

• Use of a number of modern software packages
• Proficiency in performing experiments in laboratory classes, demonstrating analytical and investigative skills
• The ability to assimilate and communicate detailed mathematical arguments
• Report writing skills, the ability to write coherently and clearly and to give presentations.

The Placement Year allows you to demonstrate:

• Use of software in an industrial setting

Transferable/Key Skills:

On successful completion of the Programme you will be able to demonstrate:

• Logical reasoning
• Independent thinking
• Critical thinking
• The ability to apply mathematical skills to solve problems
• Use of information technology and library resources
• Time and workload management
• Working with others
• Self management and organisational skills.
• The ability to conduct independent research

The Placement Year allows you to demonstrate:

• Work experience in a Maths related job