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Curtin University
Courses Handbook 2014

This handbook contains information for courses and units at Curtin in 2014.
Information for the previous year's courses and units is available at Courses Handbook 2013.

313674 v.2 Mathematics Major (BSc Science)


Major/Stream Overview

This major/stream is part of a larger course. Information is specific to the major/stream, please refer to the course for more information.


Mathematics is the study of concepts such as quantity, structure, space and change and to use these concepts to model and describe the behaviour of real world complex systems. It has been described as the science of patterns, whether found in numbers, space, science, engineering, computers, imaginary abstractions, or elsewhere. Through abstraction and logical reasoning, mathematics evolved from counting, calculation, measurement, and the systematic study of the shapes and motions of physical objects. Today, mathematics is used in most fields, including technology, natural science, engineering, medicine, finance and the social sciences such as sociology and psychology. Employment prospects are good as mathematics graduates have high level problem solving skills. Mathematics can be a stepping stone to a wide and diverse career. Our graduates have moved on into many different areas of employment such as finance, government, industry, defence and research as many employers are keen to employ people with a good background in mathematics. This Major should be taken by students who wish to study Applied Mathematics, Financial Mathematics or Industrial Mathematics. It provides students with the foundation knowledge and skills necessary to pursue their interest in these areas of mathematics.


Professional Recognition

Graduates of this course may be eligible for membership in the Statistical Society of Australia (SSAI) and/or Australian Mathematical Society (Aust MS).



Major/Stream Entry and Completion Details

The Mathematics major requires WACE Mathematics 3C/3D. WACE Mathematics: Specialist 3C/3D is desirable.



Major/Stream Organisation

Major/Stream Learning Outcomes

A graduate of this course can:

1. understand and apply mathematical and statistical principles and concepts in a range of mathematical disciplines such as operations research, statistics, numerical analysis or applied mathematical modelling, and to solve problems relevant to science, industry, commerce and Government

2. apply mathematics and statistical methods to critically analyse problems in science, finance and engineering; and to think creatively to generate innovative solutions

3. locate, extract and critically appraise relevant evidence and scientific literature in relation to mathematical science

4. communicate effectively within the context of mathematical science through the written word and by oral presentation

5. use new technologies to effectively gather data and communicate information

6. understand the theoretical framework of mathematical science and work as a responsible, reflective, self-directed and motivated lifelong learner

7. be aware of the diversity of international perspectives and apply international standards of practice within their profession as a mathematical scientist

8. understand cultural diversity and how it impacts on the discipline of mathematical science

9. display professional behaviour both independently and as a team member through the use of ethical practices


Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit
314649 v.1   Financial Mathematics Stream (BSc Science) 200.0
  OR  
312513 v.2   Industrial Optimisation Stream (BSc Science) 200.0
  OR  
312514 v.2   Applied Mathematics Stream (BSc Science) 200.0
  200.0
Year 2 Semester 1
8127 v.6   Advanced Calculus 201 4.0 25.0
8140 v.6   Operations Research 201 4.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 2 Semester 2
8128 v.6   Linear Algebra 202 4.0 25.0
302292 v.1   Network Optimisation 202 4.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 3 Semester 1
311828 v.1   Scientific Computing 201 4.0 25.0
10098 v.2 **   Mathematical Methods 301 4.0 25.0
  OR  
310299 v.1 ##   Industrial Modelling and Optimisation 301 4.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 3 Semester 2
310304 v.1   Industrial Project 302 4.0 25.0
302300 v.2 #   Applied Mathematical Modelling 302 4.0 25.0
  OR  
3975 v.5 *   Applied Statistics 302 4.0 25.0
  50.0

#    Students undertaking the Applied Mathematics or Industrial Optimisation specialisation must complete this unit

##    Students undertaking the Industrial Optimisation specialisation must complete this unit

*    Students undertaking a Finanical Mathematics specialisation must complete this unit

**    Students undertaking the Applied Mathematics or Financial Mathematics specialisation must complete this unit





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