Mathematics & Statistics

One of the very oldest human disciplines, mathematics is an indispensable tool for analysing and explaining the world around us, providing us with the skills to deal with the most abstract concepts. Mathematics and statistics play a fundamental role in the sciences, in commerce and in every other activity where quantitative, analytical or logical understanding is important. Ultimately, mathematics is about clarity of thought and precision of understanding.

www.maths.usyd.edu.au

Where do mathematicians and statisticians work?

Graduates with mathematical and statistical skills are in demand in many areas, especially in business associated with financial services and information technology. They are needed in almost all scientific, medical, technological and industrial research. Graduates are employed in a wide range of organisations to interpret information and make forecasts and decisions. Statisticians and mathematicians can be found in major corporations and in the public sector, where their skills are essential for policy planning. Secondary school mathematics teaching is also a high demand area for graduates. Many graduates choose to continue studying at postgraduate level in order to pursue more specialised careers. Even in areas where specific mathematical knowledge is not directly relevant, mathematics and statistics graduates are highly valued by many employers for their mental discipline and thoroughness.

Which majors are available?

MATHEMATICS & STATISTICS
A major in mathematics can be tailored to suit your particular interests, as you
are able to choose freely from a wideranging menu which includes units from both pure mathematics and applied mathematics. Graduating with majors in mathematics and another science area enhances your value to prospective
employers and is an excellent foundation for all types of scientific research.

FINANCIAL MATHEMATICS & STATISTICS
To meet the needs of one of the fastest growing areas of employment for mathematics graduates, the School offers a major in financial mathematics and statistics. To gain a major in this area you must complete certain core units of study in first, second and third year. These core units include specialist financial mathematics units as well as units in mathematics and statistics. There is a wide choice of electives in second and third year. The expertise acquired in this major is needed not only for the operation and analysis of investment portfolios, but also to establish, operate and maintain protocols for pricing traditional products like options and futures and modern products such as barriers, caps, swaps, exotics and other derivative securities.

What will you study?

FIRST YEAR
First year students can choose subjects at either the normal level or at the advanced level. Either choice leads on to further study in mathematics and statistics.

The first year sets a foundation for work in later years, and introduces new topics (such as discrete mathematics, statistics, mathematical modelling and linear algebra) as well as extending HSC material such as differential and integral calculus. Subjects are also available for first year students who don’t wish to continue with mathematics in subsequent years. These are specially for students whose main interests are in the life sciences or who are completing the BST degree.

Second and third year

In the second and third years students may specialise and follow their own particular interests. Students are able to choose from a variety of units of study (at normal or advanced levels) to match their interest and ability. Some of these units involve using scientific software packages in computing laboratories.

Talented mathematics program

Students with exceptional mathematical ability are encouraged to participate in the challenging extension work provided through the Faculty’s Talented Student Program and/or the Mathematics Special Studies Program.

Further Studies

Honours graduates of high calibre who wish to continue their studies in either mathematics or statistics may enrol in a postgraduate research degree in the School. We offer MSc and PhD programs in a wide range of topics reflecting the School’s research expertise.

Advanced Mathematics Degree

Prospective students who have a keen interest in mathematics and have achieved excellent results in their high school mathematics courses should consider enrolling in the Bachelor of Science (Advanced Mathematics)).