Applied Mathematics - Undergraduate options

*This subject is available as area of PhD study within other subjects in the Faculty of Science. Please consult our postgraduate advisers for availability.

Modern science relies absolutely on applied mathematics. It is the job of an applied mathematician to show how mathematical techniques can be applied to science and technology to answer interesting questions. Our goal is to use mathematical equations to study real-world problems rather than to study equations for their own sake.

The Department of Mathematics uses mathematics to study such diverse areas as physiology, ice flow, floating runways, astronomy, quantum chemistry, nonlinear systems, the human genome and many other areas. Elements of these research areas are incorporated into our courses wherever possible.

Each of the courses in the Applied Mathematics programme deals with some aspect of the "Mathematical Models" that are used for describing problems from a variety of areas within Science and Technology. The core skills taught in these courses are:

• How to build mathematical models.
• The mathematical ideas most useful for modeling
• Solution of models, often by computation.

Bachelor of Science (BSc) - Applied Mathematics major

Single or first major must include:

• 45 points: MATHS 253, 260, 270
• 45 points: MATHS 340, 361, 363
• at least 15 points from MATHS 332, 362, 386–389, STATS 310, 325, 370, ENGSCI 343, 391 and any other courses approved by the Head of Department

Second major must include:

• at least 30 points from MATHS 253, 260, 270
• 45 points: MATHS 340, 361, 363

Stage I courses

Stage I courses are designed to provide you with a range of concepts, theoretical results and analytical, computational and modelling skills that may be applied in a wide variety of areas - in biological, information and physical sciences, economics, engineering and finance for example, as well as other branches of mathematical science. Stage II and III courses build on these, covering more advanced topics, with the aim of helping you to acquire a broader base of skills and a deeper understanding of the concepts involved.

There are six Stage I courses available, entry to which is guided by your preparation, ability and goals. Mathematics I (MATHS 101) is for students with little experience beyond Year II. General Mathematics I (MATHS 108) is for students with broad interests.

Students who intend to major in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics should take MATHS 150 and MATHS 162 to ensure the greatest range of options at later stages.

With a good degree in quantitative methods (mathematics, statistics, operations research and computing), career opportunities may include industry or government, computer development, insurance, meteorology, traffic engineering, systems analysis, computing programming, statistics, biometrics or operations research, and many other fields.

There is also currently a strong demand for mathematics teachers. You should aim for a balanced mathematics programme and bear in mind that versatility may be of more value to an employer than deep knowledge of one or two specialised topics.

Recent University of Auckland graduates work as/in:

• Actuaries or actuarial associates
• NIWA scientists
• AgResearch
• Investment Banks
• Financial, Business and Risk Analysts
• National Institute of Health, USA
• Biotech companies
• Academic careers

A useful introduction to career opportunities in Applied Mathematics can be found on the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics website.

For further information, refer to the Mathematics Undergraduate Handbook.

Alternatively, staff at the Department of Mathematics can help you with general enquiries and refer you on to the relevant academic advisors.

Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 85886
Email: ugadvice-math@auckland.ac.nz
Web: www.math.auckland.ac.nz

Stage I/Undergraduate Adviser Mathematics

Dr Jamie Sneddon
Building 303, Room 305
Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 82121
Email: j.sneddon@auckland.ac.nz

Evelingi Tupou is studying for a Bachelor of Science (Applied Mathematics and Statistics)

“Mathematics was always my favourite subject at school and I knew studying it at university would be challenging and provide a sense of achievement.

“I enjoy the huge variety Science offers and the way subjects intertwine – yet I can still specialise. The lecturers are all approachable and there is an overwhelming amount of help offered, including one-on-one tutoring. I’ve also enjoyed meeting new people – many of whom challenge and motivate me. There are so many clubs and activities to join in and I’ve been a part of the UniGuide and Ambassadors programmes.

“Recently I did a project where I worked on how mathematics was applied in computer graphics. I saw how matrices were used to draw and manipulate objects.

“I hope to continue my studies until at least masters, and then work in the financial sector in finance and banking, or the actuarial profession.

• How to apply
  
• General Education requirements for undergraduates
• Postgraduate Applied Mathematics
• Pre-degree and preparatory courses in mathematics
• Mathematics Skills Programme