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Faculty of Science, Engineering and Information Technology

Mathematics and Statistics Degrees and Awards

A degree in mathematics qualifies you for a career as a Mathematician or a Statistician.

Mathematics and Statistics are used in our understanding of the real world and in the solving of practical problems. The use of mathematics requires us to think logically and clearly about problems involving numbers, space and relationships, whilst statistics are used to describe data which are subject to error or uncertainty. With the rapid development of technology and the onset of the informaiton age, the study of mathematics and statistics has become increasingly important. The growth of computing has provided the basis for many mathematical developments. The world of commerce and economics also relies on the widespread use of mathematics and statistics, as do the fields of science and engineering. Mathematics and statistics are therefore an essential part of everyday life.

With James Cook University's School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, students have the opportunity to study mathematics and statistics in detail under the following degree programs:

At JCU joint degree options are available for each of these degrees. Joint degrees provide you with expertise in a complementary discipline in reduced time, generally four to five years.

Mathematics and statistics are currently taught to Level 1 at JCU Cairns.

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (in Mathematics)
Duration: 3 years full time
Mode: on campus, full or part time
Campus: Townsville, Cairns (first year only)
Faculty: Science, Engineering and Information Technology
QTAC codes: 316061 Townsville; 326061 Cairns

BACHELOR OF ARTS (in Mathematics)
Duration: 3 years full time
Mode: on campus, full or part time
Campus: Townsville, Cairns (first year only)
Faculty: Arts, Education and Social Sciences
QTAC codes: 311031 Townsville; 321031 Cairns

PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION

Graduates who are employed in the development application or teaching of mathematics are elgible to become Graduate Members of the Australian Mathematical Society.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Mathematics and statistics graduates have good employment prospects, with careers available in the following fields:
  • applied mathematics
  • statistics
  • operations research
  • econometrics
  • biometrics
  • planning
  • administration
  • market research
  • inventory control
  • actuarial science
  • finance
  • mathematics teaching
  • mathematical modelling
  • meteorology
  • oceanography
  • demography
  • scientific computing
  • software engineering
  • systems analysis
  • data analysis
  • control systems
  • civil engineering
  • mechanical engineering
  • electrical engineering

COURSE STRUCTURE

In addition to mathematics and statistics, students usually select subjects from other disciplines to make up their degree. Electives can be taken from arts, business, science or social science areas to design your degree for your interest and career requirements.

Selecting your course, and indeed the range and sequence of subjects, is vital to your future career prospects. JCU advisors will help design the right study program for the career you want.

A typical program of study might include the following subjects (selections may differ between Townsville and Cairns):

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

plus elective subjects as set out in requirements.

HONOURS AND FURTHER STUDIES

Students who demonstrate a strong performance may qualify for entry into the Honours program and a further year of study. The fourth year Honours program consists of thesis research and course work.

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences has earned an international reputation for its teaching and research. Postgraduate research degrees are offered at Graduate Diploma, Masters or Doctoral level, in applied mathematics or statistics.

For full course information, students should refer to the current James Cook University Student Handbook.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Australian Students

Applicants must have an exit assessment in English and Maths B of Sound Achievement or better, over four semesters, in Queensland Year 12 (or the interstate or overseas equivalent).

For those without the prerequisites of Maths B, JCU offers bridging courses in Townsville and Cairns. Call our helpline on 1800 246 446 for details.

Applicants applying for the joing degree programs must satisfy the entry requirements for both degrees.

JCU supports alternative entry by applicants who may not meet the formal entry requirements for a course. These applicants can apply on the basis of their academic, professional and vocational qualifications and/or achievements. Further details are available from JCU's Student Administration offices.

International Students

In addition to academic admission requirements, applicants need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. For further information, consult JCU's International Student Prospectus, available from the International Student Centre.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Australian Students

Applications for tertiary study in Queensland are processed by the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Center (QTAC). Year 12 applicants applay to QTAC via the web www.qtac.edu.au or by telephone on 1900 971 166. Others apply via the web or complete a Tertiary Study Application Form available from JCU's Student Administration Offices or from the QTAC Guide purchased from most Queensland newsagents. QTAC can be contacted on: (07) 3368 1166.

Applications must reach QTAC by the last working day in September for February commencement, or by mid May (confirm date with QTAC) for mid-year enrolment. Applications received after these dates attract a late fee. Please note not all courses are offered via mid-year enrolment.

International Students

International applicants can apply online or contact the International Student Centre.


This site was last updated on 28 August, 2007
By Darren Rowland
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