Mathematics preparation
Welcome to Surrey and to your mathematics degree in the School of Mathematics and Physics. We are delighted to have you on board and look forward to meeting you in person in September.
This page contains some exercises, video links and background reading to help you prepare for the upcoming semester.
Year 1 overview
In each academic year at Surrey, you will study eight modules – four per semester. We have listed links to the module catalogue which contain key information on the modules including:
- Module overview and indicative module content
- Student workload and its breakdown
- Assessment pattern
- Module aims and learning outcomes
- Teaching and learning methods
- Reading list.
Semester 1 modules
Semester 2 modules
- Linear Algebra
- Multivariable Calculus
- Mathematical Programming and Professional Skills
- Classical Dynamics.
Please note: if you are studying Financial Mathematics BSc then instead of Real Analysis 1 and Classical Dynamics, you would study Introductory Economics, and Principles of Microeconomics.
Reading lists
When you start at the University of Surrey you will have full access to a wealth of mathematics resources through the Library, many of which are online.
In the meantime, we have put together a mathematics document (PDF) which contains some interesting mathematics revision questions, study tips, and information on background reading material.
Some interesting introductory books on mathematics are:
- How to study for a mathematics degree, L. Alcock, Oxford University Press (2013)
- How to Think like a Mathematician, K. Houston, Cambridge University Press (2009)
- Euler's Pioneering Equation, R. Wilson, Oxford University Press (2018).
Top tips
You should revise your notes from A-level mathematics to make sure you are up to date with everything you should know already.
You will be asked to take a mathematics diagnosis test before you arrive. This is not compulsory and does not contribute to any marks. However, it will give you an idea of topics which might benefit from further revision.
We have a wonderful student society, MathSoc, which we hope you will join and get involved in their activities!