Mathematics Minor
Mathematics Minor - Overview
Offered By: |
ANU Joint Colleges of Science |
Academic Contact: |
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Areas of Interest: |
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 minor is designed to provide a foundation in Calculus, Linear Algebra and basic modelling techniques using differential equations. In parallel, critical thinking is developed through the analysis of quantitative problems.
For a deeper and more broad study of mathematics, students can take later year courses to complete the major in Mathematics.
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 minor will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the ideas, concepts and techniques of Calculus, Linear Algebra and Differential Equations.
- Identify the mathematics required to solve some applied problems.
- Read and write simple mathematical proofs.
- Solve non-routine mathematical problems by translating ideas into a precise mathematical formulation.
- Develop clear and logical thinking, 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.
- 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.
Requirements
This minor requires the completion of 24 units, which must include:
A total of 12 units to be chosen from the following 1000 level courses including:
- 6 units of courses chosen from:
MATH1013 Mathematics and Applications 1
MATH1115 Mathematics and Applications 1 Honours
- 6 units of courses chosen from:
MATH1014 Mathematics and Applications 2
MATH1116 Mathematics and Applications 2 Honours
A total of 6 units chosen from the following 2000 level courses:
MATH2305 Differential Equations and Applications
MATH2405 Mathematical Methods 1 Honours: Ordinary Differential Equations & Advanced Vector Calculus.
A total of 6 units chosen from the following courses:
MATH2306 Partial Differential Equations and Applications
MATH3501 Scientific and Industrial Modelling
MATH3511 Scientific Computing
or any other 6 unit MATH coded course.
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 minor may be completed with MATH1013 and MATH1014.
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 minor.
The information published on the Study at ANU 2013 website applies to the 2013 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2012 website.
