Handbook

Mathematics is the universal language used to describe, model, understand and even create aspects of the world around us. Mathematics and statistics encompass the formal study of numerical, algebraic and analytical structures, the development of quantitative methods essential for the practice and development of science, engineering, economics and other fields, and the development and utilisation of mathematical and numerical models in various contexts.

The School of Mathematical Sciences offers a comprehensive program of mathematics units at all undergraduate levels. It encompasses a wide range of areas of modern mathematics, from mathematical methods to statistics to pure mathematics, and also demonstrates applications of mathematics across a variety of fields. In addition to the broad minor, major and extended major in mathematics, specialised majors and extended majors are offered in each of applied mathematics, mathematical statistics, pure mathematics, and financial and insurance mathematics. There are cross links between statistics and pure and applied mathematics, and this is reflected in the mix of units that you can select to complete a major or extended major. Our curriculum is continuously updated to ensure that you are exposed to the latest developments in mathematics. Some of the exciting areas that mathematicians at Monash are working on include mathematical modelling to predict behaviour, analysis using pure mathematics, and stochastic processes involving risk, randomness and change.

By studying mathematics at university, you will also develop general skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, modelling, scholarship, analysis and research, which can be used wherever their career may take them. Analytical and quantitative skills in general are sought by a wide range of employers, and a sound knowledge of mathematics and statistics is important in most other areas of science, economics, medicine and engineering. Mathematics and statistics are the two cornerstones for decision making and various quantitative activities in commerce, industry, education and defence. Successful companies and organisations know their competitive edge depends on the analytical, quantitative and statistical skills of their workforce, and therefore seek employees with a sound mathematical training.

Availability

Mathematics is listed in S2000 Bachelor of Science, S3001 Bachelor of Science Advanced - Global Challenges (Honours) and S3002 Bachelor of Science Advanced - Research (Honours) at Clayton as a major, extended major or minor.