Number Theory (G5140)

15 credits, Level 4

Spring teaching

Number Theory introduces students to the mathematical properties of whole numbers and is sometimes called the “Queen of Mathematics”.

Learn how to define objects such as prime numbers, greatest common divisors and lowest common multiples, and rigorously prove properties about these objects.

You will encounter the work of mathematicians such as the Euclidean Algorithm and Fermat’s Last Theorem, and understand that number theory is crucial to solving problems today, for example how prime numbers keep credit card data safe online and how to determine the periods of time insect species spend underground.  

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 42 hours of contact time and about 108 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.