Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, and Real-world Systems (MARS) (Study Abroad) Lancaster University

Mathematics powers Artificial Intelligence (AI) and underpins the systems that shape our world. From models that predict climate change and track diseases to social media algorithms and generative AI like ChatGPT, mathematics is at the heart of every major innovation. Graduate talent is needed to drive these advancements, and this degree provides you with the analytical, problem-solving and reasoning skills to make an impact in a wide range of sectors.

You will build a strong mathematical foundation, just as you would in a traditional maths degree, whilst also gaining theoretical understanding and hands-on experience of AI, machine learning and real-world modelling.

Working on projects inspired by government and industry, you’ll tackle challenges like predicting floods, stopping infection spread and preventing cyber attacks.

With a degree in Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-world Systems (MARS), you will have the tools to forge a successful career in technologies that will dictate our futures.

Broaden your horizons

Enrich your university experience with a year overseas at one of our partner universities. In Year 3, head out to start your adventure and immerse yourself in a different cultural and academic community. We’ll support you all the way!

What to expect

Our four-year BSc Hons Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-world Systems (MARS) (Study Abroad) degree begins by building upon your understanding of mathematical methods and concepts through a mix of lectures and workshops. You will explore a wide range of topics, from differential equations, multivariate calculus for AI and data science, probability and statistics to logic, proofs and theorems. In addition, you will study mathematical modelling and programming, learning the principles of scientific computing and gaining experience working with the R and Python programming languages. You will also learn to apply one of the most fundamental tools in modern AI research, the deep neural network, to real world datasets.

As you progress into Years 2 and beyond, you will delve deeper into a range of specialist optional modules and core concepts in linear algebra and probability. You will learn to translate contemporary issues into mathematical problems, and using multivariate calculus and mathematical analysis, you will gain an understanding of the algorithms that have revolutionised machine learning and AI. These tools, along with statistical methods, will help you investigate more advanced mathematical models and their solutions.

To further develop your skills, there is the opportunity to apply your knowledge to real-world problems through exciting, industry-inspired projects, where you’ll work both independently and as part of a team.

Personal development

You will develop valuable transferrable skills, such as data analysis, problem-solving and quantitative reasoning, all of which make you highly desirable to future employers. These skills are honed by working in collaboration with fellow students, ruminating on theories before testing them out, delivering presentations and communicating your research results.

We hope you find your year overseas personally enriching. Our students often tell us that they return feeling more confident, self-assured and with a broader perspective to take into job interviews.

Build your portfolio

Throughout your degree you will develop a portfolio showcasing how you’ve applied mathematical, machine learning and AI techniques to real-world problems. With support from your academic tutor, the document will evolve as you learn how to highlight your skill set, providing you with a powerful tool to show employers.

Entry requirements

These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. This section will tell you whether you need qualifications in specific subjects, what our English language requirements are, and if there are any extra requirements such as attending an interview or submitting a portfolio.

A levels

A*AA. This should include Mathematics grade A or Further Mathematics grade A. The overall offer grades will be lowered to AAA for applicants who achieve both Mathematics and Further Mathematics at grades AA.

Access to HE Diploma

Considered on a case-by-case basis. Our typical entry requirement would be 45 Level 3 credits at Distinction, but you would need to have evidence that you had the equivalent of A level Mathematics grade A.

Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as any subject requirements are met.

BTEC Extended Diploma

D*DD considered alongside both A level Mathematics grade A on a case-by-case basis

BTEC in combination with A levels

A level Mathematics grade A* plus A level grade A in a second subject and BTEC D, or plus BTEC DD on a case-by-case basis

International Baccalaureate

38 points overall with 17 points from the best 3 HL subjects including 6 in Mathematics HL (either analysis and approaches or applications and interpretations)

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

We are happy to admit applicants on the basis of five Highers, but where we require a specific subject at A level, we will typically require an Advanced Higher in that subject. If you do not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone, we will consider a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers in separate subjects. Please contact the Admissions team for more information.

T levels

Only considered alongside A level Mathematics grade A

GCSE requirements

English Language grade 4/C.

We will also look at your overall GCSE profile when considering your application as a whole.

We do have flexibility when considering GCSE requirements. Go to our GCSE information for more details.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, we require an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component for this programme. English language qualifications for undergraduate study.