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Bachelor of Science (Applied Mathematics major)

Bachelor of Science (Applied Mathematics major)

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Overview

This Bachelor of Science – Applied Mathematics major is offered from the Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses. Applied Mathematics uses mathematical principles and techniques to solve real-world problems across various fields.

SAQA

84728

NQF LEVEL

07

DURATION

3 Years

CAO CODE

KN-P-BG4
KN-W-BG4

CLOSING DATE

30 September

DISCIPLINE

Mathematics

Entry Requirements

  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) – Degree (Pass).
  • APS score of no fewer than 28 points.
  • Mathematics at Level 4 and Physical Science, Life Science or Agricultural Science at Level 4. 

Modules

The recommended major combinations are given below:

  • Applied Mathematics and Statistics 
  • Applied Mathematics and Mathematics
  •  Applied Mathematics and Computer Science 

The curriculum for the Applied Mathematics major comprises modules with a total credit point value of 384 as approved by the Senate.

Semester 1

  • Introduction to Calculus – MATH130 (16  Credits)

96 credits may be chosen from second major or the recommended electives given below:

  • Mechanics, Optics and Thermal Physics – PHYS110 (16 Credits)
  • Introduction to Statistics – STAT130 (16 Credits)
  • Principles of Microeconomics – ECON101 (16 Credits)

Total Credits: 64 Credits.

Semester 2

  • Calculus and Linear Algebra – MATH140 (16 Credits)

96 credits may be chosen from second major or the recommended electives given below:

  • Electromagnetism, Waves and Modern Physics – PHYS120 (16 Credits)
  • Statistical Methods – STAT140 (16 Credits)
  • Principles of Macroeconomics – ECON102 (16 Credits)
  • Foundations of Computer Science – COMP107 (16 Credits)
  • Development and Applications Fundamentals – ISTN103 (16 Credits)

Total Credits: 64 Credits.

Semester 1

  • Advanced Calculus and Linear Algebra – MATH 212 (16 Credits)

64 credits may be chosen from level 2 modules and 32 credits from level 1 or 2 electives. Recommended electives are given below:

  • Discrete Mathematics with Applications – MATH236 (16 Credits)
  • Mechanics – MATH235 (16 Credits)

Total Credits: 64 Credits.

Semester 2

  • Further Calculus and Introductory Analysis – MATH251 (16 Credits)

64 credits may be chosen from level 2 modules and 32 credits from level 1 or 2 electives. Recommended electives are given below:

  • Intro to Numerical Mathematics – MATH243 (16 Credits)
  • Mathematical Modelling – MATH246 (16 Credits)

Total Credits: 64 Credits.

Semester 1

Pietermaritzburg Campus

  • Methods of Applied Mathematics – MATH356 (16 Credits)
  • Advanced Differential Equations – MATH334 (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 module from the second major (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 module from the second major (16 Credits)

Electives may be chosen from:

  • Real Analysis – MATH310 (16 Credits)
  • Operations Research Methods – MATH331 (16 Credits)

Westville Campus

  • Advanced Differential Equations – MATH334 (16 Credits)
  • Methods of Applied Mathematics – MATH356 (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 module from the second major (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 module from the second major (16 Credits)

Electives may be chosen from:

  • Real Analysis – MATH310 (16 Credits)
  • Linear Algebra & Coding Theory – MATH338 (16 Credits)

Total Credits: 64 Credits.

Semester 2

Pietermaritzburg Campus

  • Numerical Analysis – MATH327 (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 elective (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 module from the second major (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 module from the second major (16 Credits)

Electives may be chosen from:

  • Optimisation & Optimal Control Theory – MATH301 (16 Credits)
  • Algebraic Structures – MATH340 (16 Credits)
  • Graph Theory – MATH342 (16 Credits)

Westville Campus

  • Level 3 elective (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 elective (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 module from the second major (16 Credits)
  • Level 3 module from the second major (16 Credits)

Electives may be chosen from:

  • Optimisation & Optimal Control Theory – MATH301 (16 Credits)
  • Numerical Analysis – MATH327 (16 Credits)
  • Algebraic Structures – MATH340 (16 Credits)
  • Graph Theory – MATH342 (16 Credits)
  • Tensor Analysis – MATH344 (16 Credits)
  • Topics in Analysis – MATH347 (16 Credits)

Total Credits: 64 Credits.

What do they actually do?

Careers: 

  • Algorithms Engineer: Design, analyse, and optimise algorithms to develop scalable, cost-effective systems, while bridging theory and practical software applications. Also involves improving algorithms and managing high-volume, real-time data processing systems.
  • Astronomer: Study the universe using physics and mathematics by collecting and analysing data on celestial objects, developing theories, and sharing research findings through papers and presentations.
  • Astrophysicist: Study the origin, structure, and evolution of the universe by applying physics and chemistry to understand celestial objects and search for life beyond Earth.
  • Cosmologist: Study the origin, structure, and fate of the universe by linking large cosmic systems (like galaxies) with fundamental particles, drawing from astronomy, astrophysics, and particle physics.
  • Cryptography: Use mathematical encryption techniques to secure data, ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and authentication, while also developing and analysing methods to encode and decode information.
  • Mathematical Modeller: Use mathematical models and simulations, often with software, to represent and solve complex real-world processes across various industries.

Areas of Employment

• Mining industry
• Computer Programming
firms
• Schools, Colleges and
Universities
• Research Institutes
• Consulting agencies
• Government
departments

and more.

Apply today and take the next step toward your future.

Apply Now