6. Read the text and match the passages with the titles.

Job opportunities Course outline

principal targets of the course typical weekly timetable

Text b Mathematics and Computer Science at Oxford

M athematics and Computer Science is a joint degree that offers the opportunity to combine an appreciation of mathematical reasoning with an understanding of computing. Mathematics is a fundamental intellectual tool in computing, but computing is increasingly used as a key component in mathematical problem-solving.

The course concentrates on areas where mathematics and computing are most relevant to each other, emphasizing the bridges between theory and practice. It offers opportunities for potential computer scientists both to develop a deeper understanding of the mathematical foundations of their subject, and to acquire a familiarity with the mathematics of application areas where computers can solve otherwise intractable problems. It also gives mathematicians access to both a practical understanding of the use of computers and a deeper understanding of the limits on the use of computers in their own subject.

M athematics and Computer Science can be studied for 3 years, leading to the award of a BA degree, or for 4 years, leading to the award of Master of Mathematics and Computer Science. The 1^st year and part of the 2^nd year of the course are spent acquiring a firm grounding in the core topics from both subjects; students are then free to choose options from a wide range of Mathematics and Computer Science subjects. In the 2^nd year students take part in an industry-sponsored group practical. The 4^th year of the Mathematics and Computer Science degree provides the opportunity to study advanced topics and undertake a more in-depth research project. You do not need to decide when you apply, and you will not be asked until your 3^rd year to choose between the degrees.

D uring the 1^st part of the course, your work is divided between lectures (about ten a week), tutorials (about two a week), and practical classes (about two sessions a week). In tutorials, you have the opportunity to discuss ideas in depth with an experienced computer scientist or academic advisors, usually with just one or two other students. You will be expected to spend a considerable amount of time developing your own understanding of the topics covered in lectures, answering questions designed to check your understanding, and preparing for your tutorials. As the course progresses, you will also begin to work in small classes (up to ten people) on more specialized topics. In the 2^nd year you will take part in an industry-sponsored group design project. You will spend about a third of your time in your 3^rd and 4^th years working on an individual project on your own choice of topic.

T his course gives training in logical thought and expression, and is a good preparation for many careers. About 20% of Mathematics and Computer Science graduates tend to go on to further study. Recent graduates secured positions as software and hardware professionals, in research, finance and investment analysis, and include a product controller for an international bank, an actuarial consultant, and an accountant.

(from the official web-site of University of Oxford http://www.ox.ac.uk/)