Why study mathematics at UoN?

Mathematics and statistics are the basis for successful decision making and problem solving in business, science, engineering and industry. The higher-than-average starting salaries of mathematical and statistical graduates is an indication that you will be in demand by employers, and that you will have the skills to be productive from your first day on the job.

Mathematics degrees provide you with the essential skills and knowledge of a professional mathematician or statistician: logic, mathematical modelling, experimental design, and the ability to manipulate, analyse and interpret large amounts of data.

Lean from leading academics

We are considered among the top of our field, and are committed to providing a challenging and rewarding learning environment. You will be taught by experts in algebra, analysis, number theory, experimental mathematics, applied mathematics and operations research and have access to excellent learning facilities which support our degrees and emphasise modern mathematical skills built on a strong basis of fundamental principles.

The Discipline of Mathematics is home to the Centre for Computer Assisted Research in Mathematics and its Applications (CARMA) and is a partner in the Centre for Complex and Dynamic Systems and Control. Mathematics is also closely associated with the Centre for Optimal Planning and Operations. The synergy generated by an active research environment and a strong program of education is a feature of our degrees and majors.

Degree options

There are so many degree program options available to you when choosing to study mathematics with us. Find out more

Become a graduate in demand

Maths and statistics graduates are in high demand in both the public and private sectors and attract some of the highest starting salaries. Find out more

Meet our achievers

Why would you do this degree? Find out from graduates, students and academics. Discover how their future is taking shape, and learn first-hand what it's like to study at uni. Find out more

Degree options

The single mathematics degree is a three year degree comprising 240 units. You can choose a major in either applied mathematics, pure mathematics, statistics or a general major in mathematics and statistics.

Throughout the degree theoretical studies are complemented by tutorials, laboratories and assignments where you can apply what you are learning. The emphasis is on giving you a well-rounded mix of mathematics and topics that interest you.

You are required to study a range of core, directed and elective courses. Core courses include areas of advanced mathematics, statistics, calculus, algebra and analysis. Directed courses encompass the areas of mathematical software, modelling of real-world systems, Operations Research, Hilbert Space, differential equations and topology just to name a few. You can also select elective courses from a range of areas including engineering, finance, computer science, languages, linguistics, philosophy and psychology for example.

There are so many degree options available to you when choosing to study mathematics with us. Single-degrees you can choose include:

Bachelor of Mathematics

This degree is ideal if you are wishing to specialise in mathematics, or if you want to develop strong mathematical skills while studying another discipline. You will be exposed to the leading edge of mathematics from the earliest stages of the degree.

Bachelor of Science with a co-major in mathematics

Mathematics as a co-major will help you to strengthen your understanding of mathematical and statistical principles in support of your other studies in the sciences, specifically in the collection, analysis and presentation of scientific data. A combined degree will give you an opportunity to undertake concurrent study in two areas as you complete two awards over a period of four years.

Combined degrees

A combined degree (in which you complete the requirements of both degrees) gives the opportunity to undertake concurrent study in two areas as you complete two awards over a period of four or five years.

Bachelor of Mathematics/Bachelor of Computer Science

A degree in mathematics and computing science will enhance your professional training and career options. You will study exciting courses such as mathematical software, modelling dynamical processes, database management systems, software engineering and machine intelligence.

Bachelor of Mathematics/Bachelor of Science

You can major in any of the listed science disciplines (other than mathematics or statistics) while studying mathematics. You will also have the opportunity to take electives from other areas according to your particular interests.

Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical)/Bachelor of Mathematics

Undertake study combining the fields of chemical engineering and mathematics. It includes study of diverse aspects of chemistry, engineering practices, fluid mechanics, heat transfer and design of energy systems, while also providing extensive mathematics skills.

Bachelor of Engineering (Computer)/Bachelor of Mathematics

Undertake concurrent study in computer engineering and mathematics. It includes study of diverse aspects of electrical engineering, computer and software engineering, quantum mechanics and semiconductor physics, while also providing extensive mathematics skills.

Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical)/Bachelor of Mathematics

Undertake concurrent study in electrical engineering and mathematics. It includes study of diverse aspects of power generation and distribution, telecommunications, signal processing, and analogue and digital electronics while also providing extensive mathematics skills.

Graduating with Honours

After completing the three year bachelor degree, high-achieving students can opt for a fourth year of study (Honours). This additional full-time year of study is a more challenging and research-oriented program, which adds prestige to your degree. It would be an advantage for any student and necessary for those who are aiming for a research-based job, or those planning to go on to research higher degrees.

Become a graduate in demand

Studying mathematics will prepare you for a wide range of careers requiring quantitative skills.

Ross Gittins, economics editor of the Sydney Morning Herald, remarked: "If possible do maths ... (it) is the single most useful ability to have in your kit-bag to equip you for any eventuality. In any case employers set a lot of store by mathematical ability and are more likely to hire someone with a good background in mathematics."

In a recent US study, careers in mathematics were rated as number one amoung 200 surveyed professions on the basis of their working environment, income, employment outlook, physical demands and stress. Actuaries and statisticans rounded out the top three.

Maths and statistics graduates are in high demand in both the public and private sectors and attract some of the highest starting salaries.

As a graduate, you can take up careers in bioinformatics, biotechnology, communications, computer-related enterprises, engineering, insurance, international finance and the futures market, logistics and strategic planning, the mining and energy sectors, management, manufacturing industries, merchant banking, medical and health research. You can follow pathways to the very top of your career when you study mathematics.

Matthew

Bachelor of Mathematics/Bachelor of Science (chemistry major)

After going straight from high school to university, I am now currently in my second year of the four year program - Bachelor of Mathematics/Bachelor of Science (chemistry major) and I am thoroughly enjoying it.

One of the great things about undertaking a combined degree program is that it allows you to gain extra qualifications in a shorter period of time. Both the standalone Bachelor of Mathematics and then the Bachelor of Science are three year degree programs, however combining these only requires four years of study.

What most people don’t realise is that maths is much more than adding together numbers. New ideas and whole branches of mathematics are still being discovered today. In the maths department at the University of Newcastle, ground breaking research is being produced by our academics, some of which are the best in the world in their fields. As a mathematics student, I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to assist with some of this research over the summer holidays where I was awarded a scholarship.

If you have uncertainties about any aspect of university life, talk to someone, either by phone or at one of the University info days. Make sure you study what you are passionate about, keep an open mind, don’t limit your options and you will succeed. And most importantly, have fun!

Scott

Bachelor of Mathematics, Bachelor of Science (Honours)

There was a lot of flexibility so I could take the courses I really wanted to take, not just the ones I was required to take.

Rebecca

Bachelor of Mathematics (Honours)

The programs diversity opens up many avenues for the pursuit of a rewarding career.

Emma

Bachelor of Science (Mathematics)

The academics' patience and knowledge is amazing and many, if not all, are good role models for any young mathematician.

Leone

Bachelor of Business, Bachelor of Mathematics (Honours)

The fundamentals of the program can be applied to many situations, and provides an understanding of how to attack and solve new problems.

Lucy

The learning environment is very supportive and enthusiastic. In all subjects undertaken I have found lecturers to be extremely helpful – their doors are always open to students who take the time to seek help with subject matter they may be struggling with.  

… the study of Statistics is a very valuable asset which employers appreciate.

Daniel

Bachelor of Mathematics

If you are pursuing other studies at the same time - such as physics or engineering -- the Mathematics courses complement them very nicely.
 
The teachers and students in the Mathematics faculty are all very friendly, easily approachable - and always keep an open door if you need help with anything.

 The learning environment is very positive - you just need to keep asking questions!

The courses in the Mathematics are well structured, organized and exciting - like experiencing a well-written essay first hand.