Bachelor of Science (Mathematics major)
Overview
This Bachelor of Science – Mathematics major is offered from the Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses. The Mathematics major aims to develop strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. It provides a foundation for various careers and further studies, particularly in STEM fields and finance, by fostering logical reasoning and the ability to model and solve complex problems
SAQA
NQF LEVEL
07
DURATION
3 Years
CAO CODE
KN-P-BG4
KN-W-BG4
CLOSING DATE
30 September
DISCIPLINE
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:
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Mathematics and Physics
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)
Select 48 credits from the list of 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)
Select 48 credits from the list of 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)
- Level 2 module from the second major (16 Credits)
- Level 2 elective (16 Credits)
- Level 1 or Level 2 elective (16 Credits)
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)
- Level 2 module from the second major (16 Credits)
- Level 2 elective (16 Credits)
Recommended electives are given below:
- Introduction to Numerical Mathematics – MATH243 (16 Credits)
- Mathematical Modelling – MATH246 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 1
Pietermaritzburg Campus
- Real Analysis – MATH310 (16 Credits)
- Methods of Applied Mathematics – MATH356 (16 Credits)
16 credits from:
- Advanced Differential Equations – MATH334 (16 Credits)
64 credits from level 3 modules of second major or level 3 electives
Westville Campus
- Real Analysis – MATH310 (16 Credits)
- Methods of Applied Mathematics – MATH356
16 credits from:
- Optimisation & Optimal Control Theory – MATH301 (16 Credits)
- Numerical Analysis – MATH327 (16 Credits)
- Linear Algebra & Coding Theory – MATH338 (16 Credits)
64 credits from level 3 modules of second major or level 3 electives
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 2
Pietermaritzburg Campus
- Algebraic Structures – MATH340 (16 Credits)
16 credits from:
- Graph Theory – MATH342 (16 Credits)
- Optimisation & Optimal Control Theory – MATH301 (16 Credits)
- Numerical Analysis – MATH327 (16 Credits)
64 credits from level 3 modules of second major or level 3 electives
Westville Campus
- Algebraic Structures – MATH340 (16 Credits)
16 credits from:
- Graph Theory – MATH342 (16 Credits)
- Tensor Analysis – MATH344 (16 Credits)
- Topics in Analysis – MATH347 (16 Credits)
64 credits from level 3 modules of second major or level 3 electives
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.