What are the differences between a maths degree and a mathematical engineering degree?

a mathematical degree focuses on principles and equations, while a mathematical engineering degree focuses on mathematical methods and techniques used in engineering and industry

Mathematics degree is the focus on attaining abstract theoretical knowledge which prepares graduates for an academic career part while mathematical engineering degree combines both the theoretical and the practical applications like data science optimization and computational modelling and prepares graduates for career development in telecommunication, finance and robotics.

Math degree starts from very basics to advance level. In maths degree you learn many concepts and formulation of theorems and concepts. But in Engineering, You have to apply the formulae which formulated already. In Engineering, just there are the applications of mathematics

Mathematicians specialize in mathematics and work with complex theories and mathematical data. While some mathematicians specialize in applied mathematics, many focus exclusively on researching and proving mathematical concepts. Engineers use their knowledge to create plans for products or structures and must ensure their creations comply with regulations so that they will function as intended and be safe. Mathematicians spend most of their time working in an office where they focus on solving mathematical problems or analyzing mathematical data. While some mathematicians may focus exclusively on researching mathematical formulas and developing new math rules, others use mathematical principles for practical purposes. They may be able to use data to project a potential problem and then determine how to fix the issue. Engineers apply their knowledge to their field of expertise. Civil engineers develop plans for new infrastructure projects, such as roads, while chemical engineers may produce special equipment that can be used with different types of chemicals. From computers to phones to cars, engineers play a role in creating a producing products used in all aspects of daily life.

I think in maths degree there are lots of statistical concepts while in engg degree it will be practical and theoretical concepts. Engg degree will be harder maths as compare ti maths degree

Nice question! A maths degree is usually about exploring pure mathematics, focusing on areas like calculus, algebra, and statistics. It’s ideal for people who enjoy theoretical problem-solving and might want to pursue careers in research or teaching. A mathematical engineering degree, though, applies mathematical concepts directly to solve real-world engineering problems. It blends math with subjects like physics and computer science, preparing students for hands-on roles in areas like data analysis, financial modeling, and software development. If you’re curious about which path suit you better, I’d be happy to chat more about it!

In summary, a mathematics degree tends to be more theoretical and foundational, while a mathematical engineering degree combines mathematical concepts with engineering applications, preparing students for industry-specific roles. The choice between the two depends on individual interests in theory versus practical application in engineering contexts.

Hi Shannon, the difference lies in the content of each course. A pure Maths degree would focus, depending on the uni, on abstract concepts and goes more into depth of what you learned at school. Mathematical engineering involves applying what you learned in Maths to real-world problems. If you want more explanation, let me know!

Mathematics degree provides interpretation, analysing and solving problems using logic and mathematical models. Basically mathematics degree is theoretical foundation which provides basic knowledge. While Mathematical engineering degree is a branch of applied mathematics that combines mathematics with engineering mostly computer science.

I’m doing a maths degree which includes pure, applied and statistics, it doesn’t really have any engineering based modules, and the applied section mostly refers to just calculus and vectors etc

A maths degree focuses primarily on the theoretical foundations of mathematics, emphasizing abstract concepts and rigorous proofs, while a mathematical engineering degree applies those mathematical principles to solve real-world engineering problems, with a stronger focus on practical applications and computational tools used in engineering fields like design and analysis.

Math is "pure" mathematics with emphasis on formal and rigorous proofs that may not have immediate applications but are important for furthering our understanding, curiosity, creativity, and potential for future inventions. Engineering is focused on current applications and emphasize building intuition of mathematical approximation techniques behind the design of highly functional and practical technologies.

A maths degree will study only maths with programming applications. Some Universities have modules on their maths degree courses which are allied to an area e.g. Exeter has modules on the maths of climate science An engineering degree will study maths but when it is applied to engineering principles. In other words its not just maths. An engineering degree may send you out on a work placement year

A key difference between mathematical and mathematical engineering is with the latter math is applied in real world situations such as the velocity of a car or the thermodynamics of an engine. Mathematics alone is very theoretical and focuses on abstract algebra and proofs

It depends on what you are interested in. You could define the difference as pure and applied. The former can cover order theory, group theory, combinatorics, number theory, topology and probability (you can Google these). The engineering degree could consider computation fluid dynamics maths for aerospace or F1; or simpler maths of 3d stress situations; other applications for electric systems etc