Computers are an important tool for an applied mathematician, so we recommend a course like COSC121 where you can learn to program in Python. Then in your second year you can extend your calculus knowledge to higher dimensions with MATH201, take MATH202 to learn how differential equations can describe things changing in time and develop your linear algebra skills in MATH203. After this you will have a broad range of 300-level courses available to you covering everything from the rudiments of chaos theory in MATH363, computational algorithms in MATH353, all the practical uses of linear algebra in MATH303 and equations that combine space and time in MATH302.
MATH199 and the STAR programme
If you’ve done the STAR programme you have already completed MATH102 and MATH103! This gives you extra space in your programme for other subjects you like or more maths. If you’d like to discover a different type of maths we recommend MATH120. It provides a good introduction to pure maths and is useful for computer science subjects. Alternatively, try MATH201 or MATH203 if you want to continue the calculus and linear algebra you are familiar with.
Minor in maths
If you like maths but don’t feel like committing to a major you can easily get a minor in mathematics or just take a couple of courses. You’ll still need to start with MATH102 and MATH103. For a minor you’ll need another 3 courses at 200- or 300-level. Common choices include MATH201, MATH203, MATH363, MATH365 or MATH380. MATH365 talks about complex numbers, an essential tool for engineers and physicists. MATH380 shows how maths has evolved all over the world, it’s ideal for future teachers who will need to engage students’ interest in the beauty of maths. These are all courses that are very accessible to minoring students and give you a broad range of skills.
Mathematics, Statistics and Data Science
Maths graduates are some of the most employable and highly paid. But if you want to increase your career chances just a little more, consider adding some statistics or data science to your degree. At 100-level you can try DATA101, this shows you how maths, stats and computing combine to analyse the big data sets that are around us today. With only 100-level maths you could take STAT202 to learn how regression can help with finding meaning in data, or take a dive into statistical computing with STAT221. At 300-level there is a wide variety of courses allowing you to explore the exciting interplay of maths, stats, and data science.
Beyond undergraduate
If you are thinking about continuing maths beyond 300-level we have a wide range of options including Honours and Masters degrees and culminating in the big commitment of a PhD. If you want to focus on maths at postgraduate level, you will most likely need to have six 300-level MATH courses for entry, so keep this in mind early. This broad mathematical background will give you the best start and the most options for 400-level study.
If you want to continue combining maths with another subject at postgraduate level you should consider our CAMS programme. This only requires a major (4 papers of MATH300) for entry and lets you take up to half of your 400-level papers in a different subject.
Talk to us
The best way to find out your options in mathematics or where a degree in maths could take you is to talk to us. We have a team of friendly advisors that know all our courses inside out. Contact us on mathsstatsenquiries@canterbury.ac.nz or visit us on the fourth floor of the Jack Erskine building and we’ll find the best person to help you out.
