Mathematics teaches us how to define a problem with precision, how to break it up into a series of clearly defined steps and analyse it logically and how to assess the answer and its implications.

The skills developed when problems are defined and analysed in mathematics are universal and of value to anyone who has to face complex problems and make decisions.

Science and Technology are based on mathematical thinking and use the language of mathematics. The humanities as well as the natural sciences draw on the power of mathematics, particularly probability and statistics, to predict, plan and understand natural and human affairs. As society becomes increasingly dependent on technology, mathematics is becoming more of an essential tool in our lives.

The Level I courses build on high-school mathematics to give a broad introduction to the basic language and techniques of mathematics. Students who wish to major
in other areas of Science are encouraged to take both Level I Mathematics courses, or at least the Level I Mathematics course ZPEM1301 Mathematics 1A. Taking Mathematics 1A, but not Mathematics 1B, will
still allow students to complete a minor in Mathematics (see the structure for a minor below). The course ZPEM1302 Mathematics 1B is a prerequisite for some Level II and Level III Mathematics courses.

At Level II, ZPEM2302 Mathematical Tools in Science extends basic concepts introduced in ZPEM1301 Mathematics 1A, in particular ideas and techniques for representing and analysing data, and calculus of several variables. Case studies will illustrate how these mathematical tools are used in a wide range of disciplines including Geography, Chemistry, Physics and Oceanography. ZPEM2311 Mathematical Modelling builds on the basic concepts introduced in ZPEM1302 Mathematics 1B and looks at a variety of applications such as chemical reactions, sound, population growth and wave motion.

Level III courses delve into mathematical methods in greater depth and examine a variety of applications. Most of the courses taught are related, in some way, to the research that is currently undertaken by the staff members. Students are shown, first hand, the crucial role that mathematics plays in various areas of science, engineering and technology.

Minor
A minor sequence in Mathematics and Statistics comprises the Level I course

Plus the Level II course

plus 12 UOC from the following courses

Note: ZPEM1302 Mathematics 1B is a prerequisite for ZPEM2311 Mathematical Modelling.

Major

A major sequence in Mathematics comprises of two Level I courses

plus the following Level ll Mathematics courses

plus 24 UOC from the following Level III courses

Note: ZPEM1302 Mathematics 1B is a prerequisite for ZPEM2311 Mathematical Modelling.

A fourth Honours year is offered to students with talent and enthusiasm for mathematics. In an honours year, students use the mathematics they have learnt to pursue a research project, as well as undertaking further coursework.