Study Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) (Mathematics) at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for Australian students.

Entry requirements
Entry into the Honours program will be available to students who have successfully completed a bachelor degree in mathematics or a related discipline. Applicants should have displayed a high level of academic achievement throughout their degree program, normally achieving at least a credit level average.
Applicants are selected on the basis of academic merit and the availability of a supervisor in the proposed area of research.

Essential requirements for admission

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

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Degree overview

Study at SA's number one university for teaching quality¹, and quality education² in maths and science.
Prepare for a career in research or industry with a highly-regarded honours program.
Advance your research skills and specialist knowledge in pure and applied mathematics, and statistics.
Study at a university with well above world-class research in Mathematical Sciences, and Applied Mathematics and Statistics³.
Gain practical experience through a major industrial, scientific or commercial project in applied mathematics.
Benefit from our links with internationally renowned research groups, including the Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments and Industrial AI Research Centre.
Contribute to the development of knowledge in your area of specialisation.
Use this honours degree as a pathway to a Master of Research or doctoral studies.

¹ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Science and Mathematics – Teaching Quality Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

²ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Science and Mathematics – Overall Quality of Educational Experience Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

³2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Snapshot

This honours degree has been designed for students who have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as a Bachelor of Mathematics or a Bachelor of Science with a substantial mathematics focus.

Through an intensive, one-year research and coursework program, you will develop your ability to solve complex problems through mathematics, advancing your knowledge and skills in pure and applied mathematics, and statistics.

You will explore topics such as simulation theory, differential equations, numerical methods, optimisation, and other specialist topics, preparing you for a career in industry or research, or for further studies, such as a PhD.

Upon graduation, you can expect to work in areas such as environmental modelling, engineering and resources, security and defence, finance, public health modelling, transport and logistics, biostatistics, or statistical analysis.

On-campus teaching for this program is based at the Mawson Lakes campus. Only 20 minutes from the city centre with easy parking. The Mawson Lakes campus is also accessible by bus and train with the Mawson Lakes train station only a short walk.

What you'll learn

During your degree you will complete a year-long project in a major industrial, scientific or commercial project in applied mathematics, guided by an academic supervisor.

You will develop skills in literature search and review, methodologies, experimental design, data analysis and research ethics. You will have an opportunity to undertake a research problem or advanced study in mathematics through your thesis units.

Broaden and specialise your skills further by tailoring your honours level electives to an area of interest as approved by the Program Director.

You might have the opportunity to explore:

Simulation Theory and Application,
Advanced Complex Analysis,
Nonlinear Programming,
Discrete Optimisation,
Applied Functional analysis,
Advanced Topics in Applied Statistics,
Numerical Linear Algebra,
Introduction to Partial Differential Equations,
Computational Biology,
Stochastic Calculus,
Advanced Operations Research,
Optimal Control,
Advanced Topics in Applied Mathematics,
Advanced Topics in Optimisation,
Fluid mechanics

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Research Methods	INFT 4017	4.5
Honours Minor Thesis Preparation	NASC 4019	4.5
Honours Minor Thesis 1	NASC 4017	4.5	Note(s): 4
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2,3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2,3
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2,3
Honours Minor Thesis 2	NASC 4018	9	Note(s): 4

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units

Honours Topics in Mathematics and Statistics	MATH 4047	4.5
Advanced Honours Topics in Mathematics 1	MATH 4049	4.5
Advanced Honours Topics in Mathematics 2	MATH 4050	4.5

Rules & notes

Notes

1. The program provides students with an opportunity for advanced study in areas including applied mathematics, pure mathematics, and statistics and prepares high achieving students for research in these areas. The courses may cover topics ranging from: Simulation Theory and Application, Advanced Complex Analysis, Nonlinear Programming, Discrete Optimisation, Applied Functional analysis, Advanced Topics in Applied Statistics, Numerical Linear Algebra, Introduction to Partial Differential Equations, Computational Biology, Stochastic Calculus, Advanced Operations Research, Optimal Control, Advanced Topics in Applied Mathematics, and Advanced Topics in Optimisation.

2. At the beginning of the academic year, students will be advised of available and recommended topics that will be included in elective courses. With the approval of the Program Director, students may select appropriate elective courses of equivalent value from other institutions. Alternatively, and with the prior approval of the Program Director, elective courses may be selected from those offered at Honours or Masters level of a relevant degree at UniSA.

3. Depending on the number of students enrolled these courses may be offered in a class-based format or as directed study under the guidance of the course coordinator.

4. Minor thesis courses can be taken in either Study Period 2 or Study Period 5 but must be taken in subsequent semesters unless otherwise approved by the Program Director.

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Your studies at UniSA will incorporate practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

reports and project documentation
research projects, group projects
essays and assignments
presentations
examinations

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Why Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) (Mathematics)

Join a university that is ranked well above world standard for research in mathematical sciences¹.

This program will prepare you for a career in research, with UniSA being home to several research centres that incorporate mathematical problem solving and methods into various projects. Benefit from our links with internationally renowned research groups, including the Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments and Industrial AI Research Centre.

Researchers in UniSA’s mathematics disciplines have links to world-renowned researchers and organisations that provide a dynamic teaching and research base for our students. Many of our researchers are working on mathematical problems inspired by research in other disciplines such as mining, physical chemistry, mathematical biology, transport, and logistics.

You will complete a major industrial, scientific or commercial research project in applied mathematics as part of the one-year program, working with one of our researchers in mathematics.

You’ll have an opportunity to complete a variety of mathematical topics broadening your skillset and preparing you to take your research career further. Upon graduation, you may be eligible to pursue:

Continue your student journey and learn in an inspiring environment where you’re surrounded by nature whilst accessing world-class facilities through collaboration with researchers in various Industry 4.0 labs.

¹2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)

Real-world connections

You will learn from experts in mathematical research and benefit from our relationships with industry, including the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG).

We also host regular University-wide career expos and employment forums through our Career Service, as well as alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Online study

Part, or all, of this degree can be studied online. With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 learning environment you can organise your study to suit your lifestyle. You can:

study online, including accessing videos and course resources
participate in an interactive online learning environment
submit your assignments and get feedback online
use discussion forums for team work and communication

Please note that for some degrees, some on-campus attendance (such as to attend seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements may apply. Any requirements like this are detailed on individual course pages.

Career outcomes

Your career

This honours degree will qualify you to proceed to postgraduate degrees by coursework or research. You may also be eligible to pursue a PhD.

Because of the broad applications of this research degree, your skills and knowledge will apply to careers in a range of industries, such as:

public health modelling
environmental management
security and defence
biostatistics
information technology
statistical analysis
medical and pharmaceutical industries
private or government laboratories
manufacturing
finance
transport and logistics
engineering and resources

Industry facts

There is strong predicted future growth for Mathematicians and Statisticians

(Labour Market Insights 2022)

Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills are essential to Australia's top five growth industries

(National Centre for Vocational Education Research)

How to apply

Applying to study with us:

go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application

Credit Transfer

Get a head start on your degree. Find out if you're eligible for credit from previous studies.

Go to credit assessor

Entry pathway

We believe in equal access to further education, so we offer a range of pathways to university.

Find a Pathway

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

UniSA Excellence Scholarships

$5,000 scholarship for South Australian students with an ATAR of 99 who enrol to study a UniSA undergraduate degree.

Learn more

UniSA Outstanding Achievement Scholarship

Up to $10,000 per annum (full time) for South Australian students who obtain an ATAR of 99.95 or IB equivalent and enrol to study at UniSA.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

academic counselling
personal counselling
social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
common rooms
prayer rooms
security officers
career services and mentoring
Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your program director

As well as doing research in mathematics, I am also interested in improving the way mathematics is communicated to students and the public in general. My research interests include partial differential equations, analysis, and probability.

Dr Kevin White

Program Director

Enquire

Dr Kevin White

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How do I apply?

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

Applications for admission into the University of South Australia’s undergraduate and most postgraduate degrees are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Visit satac.edu.au and follow the links.

For the MBA degrees please apply through the UniSA MBA Application Portal. Applications for a small number of degrees are submitted direct to UniSA through our Apply Online portal. It will be noted on the degree page if you need to apply via Apply Online.

Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Master of Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
Is there a closing date for applications?

Undergraduate
Yes. The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be given equal consideration is in early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers (mid January). Some degrees will not make any offers after the main offer round. Please click here find all of the key dates for applications here.

Postgraduate
Most postgraduate degrees do not have a closing date for applications. However, there are exceptions, so it is best to check – either on the SATAC website, Apply Online or the degree homepage. Postgraduate offers are normally ‘rolling’, meaning they may be sent out at any time up until the program starts. This also means that applications may close at any time without warning, if the quota is filled earlier. For this reason, postgraduate applications should be submitted without delay. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquiries team on (08) 8302 2376 or via the online enquiry form.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

Credit transfer or advanced standing

You may be eligible to receive a credit transfer or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving a credit transfer will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

Recognised prior learning

If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning for this experience. Receiving recognised prior learning will normally reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and can reduce the duration of the degree.

How do I get credit?

Credit transfer and recognition of prior learning is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Program Director who will discuss your prior learning and experience with you to ascertain what credit you may be eligible for.

Many of our credit transfer arrangements are listed on our online Credit Assessor.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

If you are interested in studying an MBA please contact admissions@unisa.edu.au and our Future Student Enquiries team will contact you regarding your enquiry.

Alternatively, you can complete a MyCareerMatch career profile. MyCareerMatch is an online career profiling tool that you can use free-of-charge through UniSA. MyCareerMatch specialises in career profiles and provides you with a personalised career report outlining information about your personality style and a list of career options, which are complementary to your natural strengths and talents.

We have many events throughout the year where you can speak with a lecturer or tutor about your degrees of interest. You can find out what is happening at UniSA by visiting our events page or by signing up to our mailing list, so you're the first to know about careers events, information sessions, degree requirements, scholarships and more!

There are also many career counsellors external to the University that you can discuss your career options with. If you are unsure where to start your search, you can contact the Government's Work Ready team (formally Skills for All). Visit skills.sa.gov.au or call 1800 506 266.

You may also find Job Outlook a helpful resource in your decision-making.
Where can I get further information?

It can be difficult to decide what degree you would like to do and where. You might find information from government organisations will help to weigh up your degree and provider options.

Find a course or a provider

TEQSA is a regulatory body for higher education providers. Use the TEQSA national register of higher education providers to search for a course or a provider. Compare courses and providers for undergraduates and postgraduates using the Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) online comparison tool.

More information on university admission

Visit the SATAC website to find out important news, events and information on applying to university in South Australia. Visit Study with Us to find out everything you need to know about studying at UniSA, admissions and the application process.

Questions about your application

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your application you should contact the Future Students Enquiries team in the first instance.

More FAQs

Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours)

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