Mathematics provides teaching programs that cater for a wide range of abilities and backgrounds, and satisfy the needs of various student groups by providing:
* general training in mathematics and statistics;
* general training in mathematical and statistical modelling, using both analytical and numerical methods, and developing computing skills;
* preparation for a career using mathematical and statistical techniques in a wide variety of contexts;
* preparation for a career in mathematical and/or statistical research, or using mathematical and statistical techniques in scientific research;
* an understanding of scientific methods and principles as they are used in mathematics and statistics;
* teaching, training, and opportunities for using computing skills, in modelling and other applications in mathematics and statistics, to a wide range of problems;
* advanced designated courses providing an intensive quality program in mathematics and statistics.
The subject of mathematics is one of the oldest scientific disciplines, and mathematical models and techniques form a significant component of nearly all branches of modern science. It is currently a vital and growing discipline in its own right, and encompasses 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 many various contexts. The study of mathematics can lead to careers in theoretical or applied mathematics, mathematical statistics, or in areas where mathematical and computational skills are needed (eg biomedical research, materials science, environmental science, engineering, economics).
The discipline
Subjects are offered in the specialist areas of applied mathematics, pure mathematics, and mathematical statistics, as well as in mathematical methods (designed in part as service courses for subjects offered by other departments). Subjects designed specifically for the faculties of Engineering, Arts, Business and Economics, and Computing and Information Technology are listed under the entries for those faculties.
All mathematics subjects are given through a lecture program together with supporting tutorials and/or practical work.
Assessment is carried out by means of assignments and tests during the semester and examinations at the end of the semester. In higher years, assessment is also carried out by project work and thesis. It is the responsibility of each student to ascertain the assignment, test and examination requirements for any subject in which he or she is enrolled.
The fourth digit (0, 1 or 2) in the code of first, second or third-year mathematics subjects indicates the semester in which those subjects are given, where 0 indicates that streams of those subjects are available in first and second semester.
Departmental members from whom information concerning mathematics subjects can be obtained are as follows:
Head
Professor Roger Grimshaw
Director of first-year studies
Associate Professor Neil Cameron
Directors of section
Applied mathematics: Dr Michael Page
Pure mathematics: Dr Tom Hall
Mathematical statistics: Dr Ravi Phatarfod
Caulfield/Peninsula: Professor Graeme Ross
Noticeboards
Important notices will be posted on the department notice boards. Students should consult them regularly. Their locations are in the mathematics building as follows: first year - ground floor lift lobby; second year - first floor lift lobby; third year - first floor lift lobby; fourth year - first floor east wing