Mathematics
Pāngarau
Dr Rua Murray, Associate Professor in Mathematics and Statistics, was recognised as one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s top tertiary teachers with an Ako Aotearoa national tertiary teaching excellence award in 2013. His research interests lie in pure and applied mathematics, with a focus on the behaviour of complex systems. He has taught thousands of students from foundation to graduate level.
Qualifications
- Certificate in Arts
- Certificate in Science
- Diploma in Arts
- Diploma in Science
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Digital Screen with Honours
- Bachelor of Health Sciences
- Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability
- Bachelor of Sport Coaching
- Bachelor of Youth and Community Leadership
Overview
Mathematics is at the forefront of breakthroughs in science, technology, and finance. It has been around for over 4,000 years and is still an innovative subject with new ideas, techniques, and theories constantly being created, tested, and explored.
Being a mathematician puts you one step ahead in preparing for the technological advances of the coming generation.
- Study topics such as pure and applied mathematics, modern mathematical theories, key uses, and breakthroughs in mathematical history.
- A wide range of mathematics courses to customise your study and gain skills towards particular career paths.
- Research projects — within UC, and in connection with industry.
Mathematics major
For the major in the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science, complete the following courses:
100-level
If you have not taken mathematics to Year 13 level it is strongly advised to take MATH101 Methods of Mathematics.
200-level
Three courses chosen from:
- MATH202 Differential Equations
- MATH220 Discrete Mathematics and Cryptography
- MATH240 Analysis and Group
- MATH201 Multivariable Calculus OR EMTH210 Engineering Mathematics 2
- MATH203 Linear Algebra OR EMTH211 Engineering Linear Algebra and Statistics
300-level
Another two courses from 300-level MATH or STAT courses are also required if you intend to go onto postgraduate studies in Mathematics.
It is good to include other subject courses during your major study. Popular choices include Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Management, Physics, and Statistics.
Mathematics minor
For the minor in the Bachelor of Arts, Commerce, Digital Screen, Health Sciences, Science, Social and Environmental Sustainability, Sport Coaching, or Youth and Community Leadership, complete the following courses:
- 75 points in 100 to 300-level MATH courses, with at least 45 points above 100-level
Because maths is used almost everywhere, a Mathematics major will open up many different career options. Roles in information technologies, finance, business, scientific research, law, teaching, and other fields will make the most of your logical reasoning skills.
Some career pathways could include:
- technology and product design
- research mathematician
- actuary
- fraud investigator.
Find out more about what you can do with a degree in Mathematics.
Contact us
Te Kura Pāngarau | School of Mathematics and Statistics
Phone +64 3 369 2233
Email MathStatsEnquiries@canterbury.ac.nz
Location
Level 4, Jack Erskine building – see campus maps
Postal address
Te Kaupeka Pūhanga | Faculty of Engineering
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
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