Description:
Mathematics is the study of universal patterns and structures; it is the quantitative language of the world; it underpins information technology, computer science, engineering, and the physical sciences; and it plays an increasingly important role in the biological and medical sciences, economics, finance, environmental science, sociology and psychology.
The Mathematics major is designed to provide a foundation in Calculus, Linear Algebra and basic modelling techniques using differential equations. In parallel, critical thinking will be developed through the analysis of quantitative problems. With this background students will be ready to pursue their interests in a broad range of mathematical areas, by choosing appropriate later year courses in pure or applied mathematics areas, or a combination of these. These later year courses reinforce and extend the students' quantitative skills as well as providing a greater awareness of the many branches of mathematics and of the interconnections among them.
Students with a good background in mathematics have many more options in terms of career possibilities, and are highly sought after for postgraduate study in almost every quantitative field. As commented by Ross Gittins, economics editor, Sydney Morning Herald, "Employers set a lot of store by mathematical ability and are more likely to hire someone with a good background in mathematics".
Learning Goals:
Students who have completed the Mathematics major will be able to:
- Demonstrate mastery of the ideas, concepts and techniques of Calculus, Linear Algebra and Differential Equations.
- Identify the mathematics required to solve applied problems.
- Read, understand and write mathematical proofs.
- Solve non-routine mathematical problems by translating ideas into a precise mathematical formulation.
- Think clearly, sequentially and logically, as demonstrated by the critical analysis of quantitative problems.
- Appreciate that mathematics is embedded in everyday life through its influence in fields, such as the physical, biological, medical, social and economical sciences.
- Demonstrate awareness of the many branches of mathematics and of the interconnections among them.
- Demonstrate a deeper understanding of a branch of advanced mathematics.
- Draw on discipline based experiences of working collaboratively, communicating mathematical knowledge and acting professionally and responsibility in further study, or professional pursuits.
- Recognise the importance of continuing professional development and be able to extend knowledge of mathematics through independent reading and learning.
Other Information
Advice to Students
What 1st year courses should you enrol in? For a greater choice of later year courses students are advised to do MATH1115 and MATH1116, although the major may be completed with MATH1013 and MATH1014. In particular, students who think they may want to do honours in Mathematics, should complete MATH1115 and MATH1116.
Students interested in doing a major in Mathematics but who do not have an appropriate background to begin MATH1013, may do MATH1003 before beginning MATH1013.
Students should seek further course advice from the academic convener of this Mathematics major.
Relevant Degrees
Requirements
Major Requirements
This major requires the completion of 48 units which must come from the subject area MATH Mathematics and of which:
A maximum of 12 units must come from completion of 1000 level MATH courses, which must include:
6 units from completion of the following course(s):
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MATH1013 | Mathematics and Applications 1 OR | 6 |
| MATH1115 | Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 | 6 |
6 units from completion of the following course(s):
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MATH1014 | Mathematics and Applications 2 OR | 6 |
| MATH1116 | Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 | 6 |
A minimum of 18 units must come from completion of courses from the following list:
3000 level Mathematics (MATH) courses
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