Discover the best UK universities for Mathematics in 2026. Dive into world-class teaching, top research, and supportive student communities.
Best Universities for Mathematics: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Cambridge | 96 | 75 |
| 2 Silver | University of Oxford | 99 | 67 |
| 3 Bronze | Imperial College London | 98 | 70 |
| 4 | University of Warwick | 93 | 81 |
| 5 | University of Manchester | 96 | 83 |
| 6 | University of Bristol | 97 | 87 |
| 7 | University of Edinburgh | 95 | 84 |
| 8 | University of Glasgow | 92 | 88 |
| 9 | University of Leeds | 94 | 92 |
| 10 | University of Nottingham | 93 | 92 |
1. University of Cambridge Gold
2. University of Oxford Silver
3. Imperial College London Bronze
4. University of Warwick
5. University of Manchester
6. University of Bristol
7. University of Edinburgh
8. University of Glasgow
9. University of Leeds
10. University of Nottingham
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Mathematics rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to maths students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Mathematics Universities in the UK
Mathematics is one of the most respected degrees in the UK, offering excellent career prospects across science, finance, and technology. Our 2025 ranking highlights the best universities for Mathematics in the UK, chosen for their academic excellence, graduate employability, and student experience.
University of Cambridge
Cambridge is globally recognised for its rigorous mathematics programs and Nobel Prize–winning research. Students tackle challenging pure and applied modules, supported by world-class supervision and career pathways in academia, data, and finance.
University of Oxford
Oxford’s Mathematics department combines theoretical excellence with modern applications. Its tutorial system ensures close academic support, making it ideal for students aiming for careers in research, technology, or quantitative finance.
University of Warwick
Warwick is known for innovation in mathematical research and strong links between maths, statistics, and computer science. It offers a collaborative community and outstanding employability outcomes for graduates.
Imperial College London
Imperial specialises in applied mathematics, data science, and mathematical modelling. With close industry partnerships, it’s a great choice for students interested in finance, engineering, or technology-based careers.
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh provides a balanced academic and social experience with strong research in mathematical biology, statistics, and computational methods. Students enjoy excellent support and employability services.
University of Manchester
Manchester combines leading research output with diverse study options across applied and pure maths. Its active societies and student support services create a welcoming and dynamic campus environment.
University of Bristol
Bristol offers top-tier teaching and strong graduate prospects. The university’s mathematics programs are research-led, with a growing reputation in data science and statistical modelling.
University of Leeds
Leeds provides high-quality teaching and a lively student community. With a focus on problem-solving and analytical thinking, its mathematics degrees prepare students for success in finance, analytics, and education.
University of Glasgow
Glasgow combines affordable city living with a strong academic foundation in mathematics. Its teaching quality and supportive staff make it a great option for both home and international students.
University of Nottingham
Nottingham balances academic rigour with an engaging student experience. Its strong research base and modern facilities support careers in mathematics, data science, and economics.
Career Prospects After a Mathematics Degree
Mathematics graduates are in high demand across finance, data science, technology, engineering, and research. Related degrees include Data Science and Computer Science.
Entry Requirements for Mathematics Degrees
Most universities require A-level Mathematics and often Further Mathematics. Typical UCAS offers range from 140 to 160 points. Students with strong problem-solving and analytical skills are especially valued.
Most Affordable Cities to Study Mathematics in the UK
Glasgow, Newcastle, and Sheffield offer affordable living costs, strong academic reputations, and welcoming student communities — ideal for maths students on a budget.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Student Life
Leeds, Manchester, and Nottingham are top choices for their social scenes, societies, and student support, making them ideal for balancing study and life outside the lecture hall.
Student Wellbeing and Academic Support
Universities such as Edinburgh, Warwick, and Bristol are highly rated for wellbeing services, academic mentoring, and career development tailored to maths and data-driven disciplines.
Considering Alternatives to Mathematics?
Explore related subjects such as Data Science, Physics, or Engineering for similar analytical and technical career paths.
Summary: Which Mathematics University Is Right for You?
When choosing where to study Mathematics, consider academic reputation, teaching style, and career outcomes. Cambridge and Oxford lead for research excellence, Warwick and Imperial stand out for innovation, and Leeds and Manchester offer strong social and academic balance. Compare your options to find the perfect fit for your goals.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Mathematics
Top UK universities for Mathematics include Cambridge, Oxford, Imperial College London, and Warwick, known for their strong academic reputation and excellent student satisfaction.
The University of Cambridge often leads the rankings for Mathematics, thanks to outstanding research, teaching quality, and student feedback.
A Mathematics degree offers strong career prospects in finance, technology, research, and education. It's valued for developing problem-solving and analytical skills.
Most courses require A-level Mathematics, and many also recommend or require Further Mathematics. Check individual university requirements for details.
Mathematics graduates pursue careers in finance, data science, actuarial work, software engineering, academia, and more, benefiting from strong analytical skills.
Yes, Mathematics graduates are highly sought after in sectors like finance, technology, and research, due to their critical thinking and quantitative abilities.
Starting salaries for Mathematics graduates typically range from £25,000 to £35,000, with significant growth potential in finance and tech roles.
Courses with advanced pure mathematics, theoretical focus, or combined degrees like Maths and Physics can be more challenging.
Many Mathematics graduates work in banking, tech, government research, education, and consulting across the UK.
Absolutely. Mathematics is highly respected for its rigour and applicability across industries worldwide.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked