Program Guide: Studying Mathematics at University

Many people are concerned that they won't be able to cope with mathematics courses at university. They think they will be the "dumb" one, that everyone else is somehow smarter and more together than they are. Don't worry! The University of Sydney has a maths course to suit all backgrounds, aims and interests, no matter what UAI you have obtained.

Who does maths?

At Sydney University all science students are required to take at 12 credit points of (usually first year) mathematics, and all engineering students take first year mathematics units and at least one second year mathematics unit. Students from other faculties such as Arts, Economics and Education can enrol in mathematics units if they wish to.

Note that Junior Mathematics incorporates Junior Statistics. There is also a less mathematical Statistics unit available for students whose degree course has no compulsory mathematics.

As well as our Normal first year units, we run units on Life Sciences Mathematics. These are for non-engineering students whose interests and strengths lie outside mathematics. For students who have not done HSC mathematics there is an introductory calculus unit, from which they may progress to Life Science or Normal mathematics units. We also run Advanced units that are open to students whose mathematics is strong, and a Talented Students Program for really exceptional students who want a more challenging program. There is something for everyone!

Whatever units you take in mathematics or statistics at Sydney University you will be taught by friendly, knowledgeable staff many of whom are also expert researchers. Several of the Staff of the School of Mathematics and Statistics have won awards for excellence in teaching.

How is mathematics taught?

In most units you will attend lectures and tutorials. Lectures are where you are introduced to course material, and tutorials are smaller classes where you can interact with teachers and other students as you work on exercises. Most units also have assignment work where you can test your understanding as it develops and get written feedback on your work. Each unit of study has its own website, through which extensive resources for the unit are made available to students; the website is updated each week while the unit is running. In some units you may also use computers to help you solve different sorts of problems or to give fresh insights into what you are learning in lectures.

What is university life like?

University is not like school. You are expected to take much more responsibility for your learning—nobody will chase you up. But help is always at hand if you need it; you only have to ask! Life at uni also offers much more freedom and independence than school. As well Sydney University presents students with many more opportunities beyond the purely academic. You will certainly meet lots of new people and make new friends. You can also join in any of a vast number of social or sporting activities, become involved in student representation, in drama, music, religion, learn new skills or develop existing cultural interests. You name it, it's probably happening here!

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