Mathematics is at the core of all technological innovations.

If you’d like to master quantitative problem-solving, mathematical modelling and critical thinking, this is the degree for you.

It is an elite, research-focused program for exceptional students at Australia’s highest-ranked university.

Make your mark with maths at ANU: find out more about mathematical studies, the degree structure, the university experience, career opportunities and student stories on our website. Work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives.

Get the inside story on what it’s like to be an ANU student by visiting our student blog.

This program is not available for Semester 2 commencement.

With a myriad of disciplines offered, craft a science degree that is uniquely yours with the ANU Bachelor of Science.

You’ll have the opportunity to experiment in our state-of-the-art laboratories while being mentored by leading scientists. You’ll have the flexibility to go on fieldtrips, take your studies overseas, or try an internship.

Wherever your passion lies, you’ll be able to explore your interests and follow your passions with our most flexible science degree.

Find out more about our science study areas, degree structure, the university experience, career opportunities and student stories on our website.

Get the inside story on what it’s like to be an ANU student by visiting our student blog.

Employment Opportunities

This program is excellent preparation for work in any mathematical field, whether in academia, private industry, or government. See the following information provided by the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute for examples of employment opportunities for those trained in mathematics.

https://amsi.org.au/resources/mathsadds-careers-guide/

This program is excellent preparation for work in any mathematical field, whether in academia, private industry, or government. See the following information provided by the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute for examples of employment opportunities for those trained in mathematics.

https://amsi.org.au/resources/mathsadds-careers-guide/

Learning Outcomes

1. Think clearly, sequentially and logically, as demonstrated by the critical analysis of quantitative problems, such as the ability to read, understand and write mathematical proofs.
2. Demonstrate mastery of the concepts and techniques of Advanced Mathematics.
3. Communicate concepts and results clearly and effectively both in writing and orally.
4. Systematically identify relevant theory and concepts, relate these to appropriate methodologies and evidence, and draw appropriate conclusions.
5. Engage in critical review of appropriate and relevant information sources.
6. Work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives.

1. Develop, apply, integrate and generate scientific knowledge in educational and professional contexts;
2. Use a range of skills and methods to identify, analyse and respond to problems and issues;
3. Convey and relate professional and disciplinary information and ideas to diverse audiences in effective and appropriate ways;
4. Work and learn in both independent and collaborative ways with others to encompass diverse abilities and perspectives;
5. Exercise personal, professional and social responsibility as a global citizen.

Further Information

Student Advice

What courses should you take in your first year of study?

• MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 (6 units)
• MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 (6 units)

Our first-year curriculum lays a common foundation for all mathematics students, keeping all doors open. In the second-year, students take a collection of core courses to better understand their mathematical tastes. Later in the program, particularly in the third year, students will follow their mathematical interests through a variety of course choices.

Additional advice:

• Additionally, students who intend to take MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models (6 units) as part of their program requirements should enrol in it alongside MATH1115 in first semester.
• Students who intend to take MATH2222 Introduction to Mathematical Thinking: Problem Solving and Proofs (6 units) as part of their program requirements, can choose to take it alongside MATH1115 in first semester of first year, or wait to take it in the first semester of their second year. Students are welcome to seek advice if they are unsure which choice is correct for them.
• Please also note that if MATH1005 is completed as part of the main program requirements in first year, then students may still choose to take MATH2222 as an elective course in second year.

How can I satisfy the Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving course requirements?

• Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving courses can be found using the Programs and Courses search engine.
• Many majors offered by the College of Science (not required for the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences) may identify in the "Advice for students" section which courses listed in the major will contribute towards this requirement. This might also be of assistance in identifying courses.

Internship opportunities

Students interested in incorporating an internship into their degree can find out more from the College of Science website.

How can I get a study plan to help me map out my degree?

Want to learn more about the structure of the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences or wish to map out your degree? Click here to access the study plan.

Academic or enrolment advice:

If in doubt, please seek further advice from the academic contact for this program (details above), or the College of Science Student Services Team (students.cos@anu.edu.au).

Student Advice

What courses should you take in your first year of study?

• MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 (6 units)
• MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 (6 units)

Our first-year curriculum lays a common foundation for all mathematics students, keeping all doors open. In the second-year, students take a collection of core courses to better understand their mathematical tastes. Later in the program, particularly in the third year, students will follow their mathematical interests through a variety of course choices.

Additional advice:

• Additionally, students who intend to take MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models (6 units) as part of their program requirements should enrol in it alongside MATH1115 in first semester.
• Students who intend to take MATH2222 Introduction to Mathematical Thinking: Problem Solving and Proofs (6 units) as part of their program requirements, can choose to take it alongside MATH1115 in first semester of first year, or wait to take it in the first semester of their second year. Students are welcome to seek advice if they are unsure which choice is correct for them.
• Please also note that if MATH1005 is completed as part of the main program requirements in first year, then students may still choose to take MATH2222 as an elective course in second year.

How can I satisfy the Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving course requirements?

• Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving courses can be found using the Programs and Courses search engine.
• Many majors offered by the College of Science (not required for the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences) may identify in the "Advice for students" section which courses listed in the major will contribute towards this requirement. This might also be of assistance in identifying courses.

Internship opportunities

Students interested in incorporating an internship into their degree can find out more from the College of Science website.

How can I get a study plan to help me map out my degree?

Want to learn more about the structure of the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences or wish to map out your degree? Click here to access the study plan.

Academic or enrolment advice:

If in doubt, please seek further advice from the academic contact for this program (details above), or the College of Science Student Services Team (students.cos@anu.edu.au).

Admission Requirements

Prerequisites

ACT: Specialist Mathematics and Specialist Methods (double major) / Discrete Mathematics ANU/UC.

NSW: Mathematics Extension 2 or equivalent. 

VIC: Specialist Mathematics.

QLD: Specialist Mathematics.

TAS: Mathematics Specialised / Both Mathematics IA and IB through UTAS.

SA / NT: Specialist Mathematics.

WA: Mathematics Specialist.

IB: Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches HL.

More information about interstate subject equivalencies can be found here .

There are no formal program prerequisites and many first-year science courses assume little specific knowledge. The exceptions are:

• For many of the biology majors, chemistry is a requirement, therefore it is recommended that students have at least an ACT minor (but preferably a major) in chemistry, or successful completion of a bridging course in chemistry, or multi-strand science in NSW, or equivalent. Chemistry is essential for all later-year courses in the biological streams of biochemistry and cell biology, microbiology and immunology, molecular genetics, animal and human physiology, and some parts of botany and neuroscience. A bridging course is available in February details can be obtained through science.enquiries@anu.edu.au
• CHEM1101: ACT major in Chemistry, or successful completion of a bridging course in chemistry, or multi-strand science in NSW, or equivalent, is required. Chemistry is essential for all later-year courses in chemistry. A bridging course is available in February details can be obtained through students.cos@anu.edu.au
• MATH1003: Assumed knowledge: ACT Mathematical Methods (major)/Further Mathematics/Specialist Mathematics (major)/Specialist Methods or NSW HSC Mathematics Advanced or equivalent
• MATH1005: ACT Mathematical Methods (major)/Further Mathematics/Specialist Mathematics (major)/Specialist Methods or NSW HSC Mathematics Advanced or equivalent
• MATH1013: A satisfactory pass in ACT Specialist Mathematics Major - Minor or NSW HSC Mathematics Extension 1 or equivalent. Students with a good pass in ACT Mathematical Methods or NSW HSC Mathematics Advanced or equivalent will be considered
• MATH1115: A satisfactory pass in ACT Specialist Mathematics double major or NSW HSC Mathematics Extension 2 or equivalent. Students with excellent marks in either ACT Specialist Mathematics major-minor or NSW HSC Mathematics Extension 1 or equivalent may be permitted to enrol
• PHYS1101: There is a corequisite of MATH1013/1115. See the entries above. There is no formal physics prerequisite but preparation is assumed and recommended. Recommended preparation is - NSW: a high standard in 2 unit physics or a multi-strand science; ACT: a high standard in physics (major).

Adjustment Factors

Adjustment factors are combined with an applicant's secondary education results to determine their Selection Rank. ANU offers adjustment factors based on equity, diversity, and/or performance principles, such as for recognition of difficult circumstances that students face in their studies.

To be eligible for adjustment factors, you must have:

• achieved a Selection Rank of 70 or more before adjustment factors are applied
• if you have undertaken higher education, completed less than one year full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) of a higher education program
• applied for an eligible ANU bachelor degree program

Please visit the ANU Adjustment Factors website for further information.

Scholarships

ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.

Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are.  Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.

For further information see the Scholarships website.

Program Requirements

The Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences flexible double degree component requires completion of 96 units, of which:

A maximum of 36 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses

The 96 units must consist of:

A minimum of 84 units from completion of courses from the lists below, which must include:

30 units from the completion of the following compulsory courses:

MATH1115 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 1 (6 units)

MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2 (6 units)

MATH2305 Applied Mathematics I (6 units)

MATH2320 Advanced Analysis 1: Metric Spaces and Applications (6 units)

MATH2322 Advanced Algebra 1: Groups, Rings and Linear Algebra (6 units)

6 units from the completion of one of the following courses:

MATH1005 Discrete Mathematical Models (6 units)

MATH2222 Introduction to Mathematical Thinking: Problem Solving and Proofs (6 units)

36 units from completion of 3000-level courses from the subject area MATH Mathematics

A minimum of 12 and a maximum of 24 units from completion of courses not previously taken from the following subject areas:

ASTR – Astronomy & Astrophysics

BIOL – Biology

CHEM – Chemistry

COMP – Computer Science

EMSC – Earth and Marine Science

ENVS – Environmental Science

HLMD – Health and Medicine

HLTH – Health Science

MATH – Mathematics

MEDN – Medical Science

NEUR – Neuroscience

PHYS – Physics

PSYC – Psychology

SCNC – Science

SCOM – Science Communication

STAT – Statistics

HURDLE REQUIREMENTS

Students must achieve a minimum 70% Weighted Average Mark in each period (Summer/First Semester/Autumn and Winter/Second Semester/Spring) in the subject area of MATH to continue in the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences. During their first year of study, students will be considered in breach of this requirement only if it is not met in both Semester 1 and Semester 2.

Students who do not achieve a minimum of 70% Weighted Average Mark will be transferred to the Bachelor of Science.

First-year students should note that a prerequisite for the MATH1116 course is a mark of 60% or higher in MATH1115, and a prerequisite for both MATH2320 and MATH2322 is a mark of 60% or higher in MATH1116.

Students must achieve a minimum 70% Weighted Average Mark in each period (Summer/First Semester/Autumn and Winter/Second Semester/Spring) in the subject area of MATH to continue in the Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences. During their first year of study, students will be considered in breach of this requirement only if it is not met in both Semester 1 and Semester 2.

Students who do not achieve a minimum of 70% Weighted Average Mark will be transferred to the Bachelor of Science.

First-year students should note that a prerequisite for the MATH1116 course is a mark of 60% or higher in MATH1115, and a prerequisite for both MATH2320 and MATH2322 is a mark of 60% or higher in MATH1116.

The Bachelor of Science flexible double degree component requires completion of 96 units, of which:

A maximum of 36 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses

A minimum of 30 units must come from completion of 3000-level courses from the Science course list

A minimum of 6 units must come from completion of quantitative research skills courses from the following list, which may contribute towards meeting the requirements of a major, minor or specialisation in the Bachelor of Science:

BIAN3014 Research Design and Analysis in Biological Anthropology (6 units)

BIOL2001 Introduction to Quantitative Biology (6 units)

BIOL2202 Experimental Design and Analysis in Biology (6 units)

ENVS1003 Introduction to Environmental and Social Research (6 units)

ENVS2002 Environmental Measurement, Modelling and Monitoring (6 units)

PSYC2009 Quantitative Methods in Psychology (6 units)

PSYC3018 Advanced Research Methods (6 units)

Any 1000-, 2000- or 3000- level course from the subject area MATH- Mathematics or STAT- Statistics, with the exception of MATH1042

The 96 units must include:

A minimum of 84 units from completion of courses from the following lists, which must include:

A minimum of 12 units from completion of 1000- level courses from the following subject areas or courses listed below:

ASTR – Astronomy & Astrophysics

BIOL – Biology

CHEM – Chemistry

EMSC – Earth and Marine Science

ENVS – Environmental Science

MATH – Mathematics

PHYS – Physics

SCNC – Science

SCOM – Science Communication

COMP1100 Programming as Problem Solving

COMP1110 Structured Programming

COMP1130 Programming as Problem Solving (Advanced)

COMP1140 Structured Programming (Advanced)

COMP1600 Foundations of Computing

COMP1730 Programming for Scientists

FINM1001 Foundations of Finance

48 units from completion of one of the following Science majors:

Agricultural Innovation

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Biochemistry

Biodiversity Conservation

Biological Anthropology

Cell & Molecular Biology

Chemistry

Climate Science

Computer Science

Earth Science

Environmental Science

Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology

Human Biology

Mathematical Finance

Mathematical Modelling

Mathematics

Physics

Psychology

Quantitative Biology

Science Communication

Statistics

A minimum of 24 units from completion of courses not previously taken from the following subject areas:

ASTR – Astronomy & Astrophysics

BIOL – Biology

CHEM – Chemistry

EMSC – Earth and Marine Science

ENVS – Environmental Science

HLMD – Health and Medicine

HLTH – Health Science

MATH – Mathematics

MEDN – Medical Science

NEUR – Neuroscience

PHYS – Physics

PSYC – Psychology

SCNC – Science

SCOM – Science Communication

Once you have met the program requirements of your degree, you may have enough electives to complete an additional elective major, minor or specialisation. Majors and minors if taken together must have different names. Detailed information on course overlap is available from the College of Science website.

A major cannot contribute satisfying the requirements of two degrees.

Majors

Bachelor of Science Majors

Minors

Bachelor of Science Minors

Study Options