At Kent, aspiring mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries are encouraged to think creatively. This is reflected in everything we do – the teaching, student experience and learning environment.
“Maths includes lots of puzzle solving.”
“I love the challenge when I work on a difficult problem … it never gets boring for me.”
“I like the fact that maths is not subjective and the answers are right or wrong.”
“Many things cannot happen without the magic of maths.”
The School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science (SMSAS) recently moved into the £26 million state-of-the-art Sibson Building. It was designed for mathematics, with specialist study and social spaces equipped with whiteboards, charging stations and digital screens, encouraging collaboration and innovation.
Teaching is a blend of traditional lectures, digital presentations, small-group tutorials and computer classes. We use video and/or audio lecture capture and give students extensive online notes and resources. Our aim is to enable students to learn in the ways that work for them.
What do you like about studying with SMSAS at Kent?
“Staff are passionate about their subjects, and are more than happy to provide extra support to ensure all students understand.”
“The general attitude of learning from other students is positive, which allows for a great learning environment.”
“The University of Kent has great spaces to study, especially the areas in our new Sibson building.”
“The accessibility of resources such as the lecture material and additional help on the Moodle pages.”
“The atmosphere of the university is so friendly and welcoming. I feel at home here. My course is really interesting. There are lots of opportunities here for me. The study hubs are amazing! Great campus and facilities.”
For many SMSAS students, there’s no better way to see the real-world applications of what they’re learning than on their year in industry placement. The year in industry gives students the opportunity to identify a potential career path and work as a paid employee, developing their skills and building up valuable experience. The process of finding a placement is an eye-opening experience, as the pathways into work for a mathematician are much broader than some expect.
“The option of doing a placement year really helped me. Thirty of us did placements — all have secured graduate roles.”
A talented mathematician with problem-solving, analytical and research skills is an invaluable asset for any business and can fit into many roles. SMSAS students have worked at a wide range of companies including Disney, Microsoft, Fujitsu, IBM, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs and Lloyds Banking Group, to name a few.
The year in industry isn’t the only way to develop key employability skills in the School. SMSAS has a year-round programme of sessions and events that aim to give students the best possible start to their careers. Our two school societies, the Kent Maths Society and the Invicta Actuarial Society, each have a packed programme of social and professional events, including networking sessions and other ways to find out more about potential careers.
SMSAS is a community that is passionate about our subjects and keen to help every student achieve their best. Come and join us for some amazing mathematical, statistical or actuarial fun!
