In the Applied Mathematics specialisation, students develop the principles and techniques that allow mathematicians to develop models of the world around us. Such models enable mathematicians to predict the changes in environmental, chemical and financial systems that will occur as inputs change.
Hear from a past student about Applied Mathematics:
Subject choices
Note: The information below is for students studying full-time and commencing in the start-of-year intake. Subject sequences may differ for students studying part-time or commencing mid-year. This page only lists the mathematics and statistics and computing subjects required for the Applied Mathematics specialisation, but students must also take additional science and breadth subjects to satisfy the requirements of the Bachelor of Science. Students are encouraged to seek individual course advice if needed.
Level-1 subjects (first year)
Students take one of the standard first-year mathematics pathways.
Level-2 subjects (second year)
Students take the following level-2 Mathematics and Statistics subjects in their second year:
- MAST20009 Vector Calculus or MAST20032 Vector Calculus: Advanced (semester 1)
- MAST20030 Differential Equations (semester 2)
- MAST20026 Real Analysis (semester 1 or 2) or MAST20033 Real Analysis: Advanced (semester 1)
Note: students who completed MAST10009 Accelerated Mathematics 2 do not take MAST20026 Real Analysis or MAST20033 Real Analysis: Advanced.
And optionally one of:
- MAST20004 Probability (semester 1 or 2)
- MAST20006 Probability for Statistics (semester 1 or 2)
Computing requirement
In addition, students who do not already have evidence of competence in computer programming must complete one of the following computing subjects:
- COMP10001 Foundations of Computing
This subject is offered in semester 1 and 2 and may be taken in first or second year. This is the recommended option for most students. - COMP20005 Introduction to Numerical Computation in C
This subject can be taken in semester 1 or 2. This subject does not have a level-1 computing prerequisite. It is therefore a suitable option for students wishing to take an introductory computing subject but who do not have space for any additional level-1 subjects in their course. - PHYC20013 Laboratory and Computational Physics 2
First-year physics is required as a prerequisite for PHYC20013. This subject can be taken in semester 1 or 2. This is a suitable option for students who are also taking other level-2 physics subjects.
Evidence of competence in computer programming could include passing a relevant Year 12 subject, or a statement of achievement from a relevant MOOC, or passing a programming competency test administered by another University of Melbourne School. For full details see the handbook entry for MAST30028 Numerical Methods and Scientific Computing.
Level-3 subjects (third year)
Students must complete the following subjects to satisfy the requirements for the Applied Mathematics specialisation.
Both of:
- MAST30021 Complex Analysis (semester 1 or 2)
- MAST30028 Numerical Methods and Scientific Computing (semester 2)
plus two of:
- MAST30030 Applied Mathematical Modelling (semester 1)
- MAST30032 Biological Modelling and Simulation (semester 1)
- MAST30031 Methods of Mathematical Physics (semester 2)
- MAST30001 Stochastic Modelling (semester 2)
Note: Students wishing to take MAST30001 or MAST30032 must first complete MAST20004 Probability or MAST20006 Probability for Statistics.