Combining the skills of a philosopher and a mathematician makes for an unrivalled ability to analyse issues and problems. Descartes, Leibniz, and Frege and many other great philosophers were also mathematicians. The two subjects are historically linked through Logic, the systematic study of how we infer. It’s a very small course with an intake of 17 each year. It’s also one of the more competitive courses at Oxford with a success rate of just 13%.
Home to the UK’s largest Philosophy faculty, and one of its largest Maths institutes, Oxford students are surrounded by world-class teachers and resources. The split between both disciplines is relatively even. For Maths, there is more emphasis on purer topics – linear algebra, matrices, and vectors. Philosophy emphasises Logic, but other branches can be explored, such as Knowledge and Reality and Medieval Philosophy. In the fourth year, there is also an optional thesis in Philosophy.
This is a three-year course (BA) with an optional fourth year (MMathPhil). Progression to the fourth year is subject to the condition that students achieve a 2:1 in their undergraduate degree.
If you enjoy maths at school, but also enjoy reading and writing, this course brings out both skills. An A Level (or equivalent) in Maths is required, while Further Maths is recommended.