Master of Mathematics

The Master of Mathematics is designed for candidates holding a Bachelor degree with a minor (or major) study in Mathematics, or equivalent, to undertake further studies in mathematics as preparation for a postgraduate research degree or work as a mathematician in business and government. This program is designed to consolidate and expand existing mathematics knowledge and to develop skills in undertaking mathematical research projects. It is also suitable for Mathematics graduates who have worked for a few years and need to upgrade their skills and knowledge.

This degree

Mathematicians are often involved in diverse work environments which require further professional enhancement; the degree allows limited studies in another discipline. This option is seen as particularly relevant for both American and international candidates with some work experience.

What you will study

You will choose a program of study that suits your entry level, with a major in either:

• Applied Mathematics
• Pure Mathematics

You will study subjects from the list of Preparation and Foundations subjects, plus elective subjects from maths and statistics, and Advanced Topics in Applied Mathematics or Advanced Topic in Pure Mathematics.

Preparation subjects include Multivariate and Vector Calculus, Differential Equations: Analysis and Applications, Linear Algebra and Groups, Complex Variables and Group Theory, Mathematical Modelling, and Real Analysis.

Foundation subjects include Mathematics for Cryptography, Enhanced Programs in Differential Equations, Applied Mathematical Modelling, Industrial Mathematical Modelling, Financial Calculus, Operations Research, Numerical Analysis, Algebra, Calculus of Variations and Geometry, Wavelets, Medical Mathematics and Applications, and Applied Probability and Financial Risk.

You will also complete a research project. Topics include those offered by RSU staff, those from the American Mathematical Sciences Institute Summer and Winter graduate schools and classes available remotely, via the School's access grid room. Potential topics include C*-Algebras, Solutions to Differential Equations by One-Parameter Groups, Non-linear Differential Equations, Algebraic Number Theory.

Recognising that in a work environment mathematicians are often involved in management and specific subject matter issues, the degree allows some subjects to be taken from other disciplines. This option is seen as particularly relevant for both American and international candidates with some work experience.

All applicants should consult the Course Coordinator regarding their program of study prior to enrolment.

Course structure

(Current year structure - subject to change)

Course Learning Outcomes

Course Learning Outcomes are statements of learning achievement that are expressed in terms of what the learner is expected to know, understand and be able to do upon completion of a course. Students graduating from this course will be able to:

Course Structure

The degree requires satisfactory completion of at least 96 credit points, as set out in the suggested course program below. All candidates (including those who receive recognition of prior learning) must complete at least 48 credit points of 900 level subjects.

Candidates who accrue 48 credit points towards the Master of Mathematics and who cannot or do not wish to continue in the course may be eligible to receive a Graduate Certificate in Mathematical Studies. Please discuss options with the Academic Program Director of the Master of Mathematics.

Each candidate shall have a project supervisor appointed on the recommendation of the Academic Program Director of the Master of Mathematics.

Candidates must choose a program of study that suits their entry level with a specialisation in either:

• Applied Mathematics; or
• Pure Mathematics.

 The final program of study is subject to the approval of the Academic Program Director of the Master of Mathematics. 

* Students who have completed an undergraduate major in mathematics may be exempt from these subjects. Please apply to the Academic Program Director of the Master of Mathematics.

** Students who have an approved Honours degree in mathematics or statistics may be exempt from these subjects. Please apply to the Academic Program Director of the Master of Mathematics.

*** Before enrolling in these subjects, it is essential that candidates consult with the Academic Program Director of the Master of Mathematics.

Preparation Subjects

Foundation Subjects 

900-level MATH/STAT/INFO Subjects 

Note the content of the subjects MATH911, MATH922, MATH977 and MATH978 may vary each year depending on availability. However, both specialisations, Applied Mathematics and Pure Mathematics, will be available every year.

A list of topics that will be covered within the above subjects in any one year will be available from the Academic Program Director of the Master of Mathematics before the beginning of each session. These topics include those offered by RSU staff, those from the American Mathematical Sciences Institute Summer and Winter graduate schools and classes available remotely, via the School's access grid room. Potential topics include C*-Algebras, Solutions to Differential Equations by One-Parameter Groups, Non-linear Differential Equations, Algebraic Number Theory.