Why Study / Key Benefits

• The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics develops strong analytical, logical and problem-solving abilities applicable across science, engineering, computing, finance, commerce and industry.
• Massey has a strong applied-mathematics focus, allowing students to combine mathematics with other science disciplines and apply mathematical techniques to areas such as computer programming, climate modelling and transportation.
• Students develop skills in calculus, algebra, mathematical modelling, analysis, discrete mathematics and differential equations.
• The programme also develops the ability to formulate, solve and interpret mathematical problems and communicate technical concepts to non-mathematical colleagues.
• Massey recommends combining Mathematics with subjects such as computer science, physics, finance or statistics to broaden career applications.
• Teaching and research areas represented at Massey include mathematical modelling, scientific computing, combinatorics, topology, epidemiology, celestial mechanics, neuroscience, industrial mathematics, number theory, geometry and analysis.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The first year provides broad scientific and mathematical foundations. Massey recommends the following 100-level structure:

• 247113 Science and Sustainability for Science, or 247112 Science and Sustainability for ICT
• 161111 Applied Statistics or 161122 Statistics
• 160102 Algebra
• 160101 Calculus
• 159101 Applied Programming
• Three additional 100-level elective courses, with at least one from the BSc Schedule A.

The Mathematics major then develops through the following 200-level courses:

• 160203 Multivariable Calculus – infinite series, vector-valued functions, functions of several variables, partial derivatives, multiple integrals and line/surface integrals.
• 160204 Differential Equations I – ordinary differential equations, systems, matrix methods, phase-plane techniques, applications and numerical methods.
• 160211 Linear Algebra – vector spaces, linear transformations, matrices, inner-product spaces, eigen theory, quadratic forms and numerical methods.
• 160212 Discrete Mathematics – sets, logic, induction, functions, equivalence relations, algebraic structures, error-correcting codes, public-key cryptography and graph theory.

At 300 level, students choose from:

• 160301 Real and Complex Analysis – real analysis, limits, continuity, differentiation, Taylor's theorem, complex functions, Cauchy's theorem, singularities and residues.
• 160302 Modern Algebra – group theory, permutation groups, Abelian groups, homomorphisms, ring theory, ideals and fields.
• 160314 Combinatorics – permutations and combinations, generating functions, recurrence relations, graph theory and Polya's theorem.
• 160318 Differential Equations II – advanced ordinary and partial differential equations, Fourier series, Sturm-Liouville problems, nonlinear systems and numerical schemes.

Disciplines / Specialisations

• Main specialisation: Mathematics.
• The Mathematics major is part of Massey’s flexible Bachelor of Science.
• A minor is optional.
• Particularly compatible minors recommended by Massey include:
  • Computer Science
  • Statistics
• Students can also select another recognised undergraduate minor, subject to the relevant regulations.

Programme Highlights

• 3-year full-time Bachelor of Science.
• 360-credit undergraduate qualification.
• Mathematics major.
• Available at Auckland, Manawat? and through distance/online study.
• International students can study on campus in New Zealand or online from outside New Zealand.
• Strong combination of theoretical and applied mathematics.
• Applied mathematics opportunities across computing, climate modelling, transportation, science, engineering and commerce.
• Mathematical modelling and computational techniques are emphasised alongside traditional mathematics.
• Optional minor enables students to combine Mathematics with another discipline.
• Massey researchers work across areas including scientific computing, epidemiology, industrial mathematics, number theory, geometry, analysis and mathematical modelling.

Career Outcomes

Massey identifies mathematics graduates as suitable for professional careers across:

• Finance
• Banking
• Insurance
• Manufacturing
• Technology
• Market research
• Consulting
• Government
• Scientific and research organisations
• Industry and business analytics-related roles.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The current Mathematics major remains available across Auckland, Manawat? and distance/online study.
• There are no additional formal admission requirements beyond Massey university admission regulations, but appropriate mathematics preparation is expected.
• Students without the recommended mathematics background have specified preparatory-course pathways.
• Mathematics courses have prerequisites, so students should plan their first-year subjects carefully to avoid delaying progression.
• Massey advises that returning students should check current regulations because majors, minors and required courses can change.
• Laboratory-stream information is provided through Massey’s online classroom system where applicable.
• Portfolio, audition or interview requirement: Not publicly specified – please confirm with IPU.
• Professional registration requirement: Not publicly specified – please confirm with IPU.

International Student Visa Requirements

International students who study the Mathematics BSc on campus in New Zealand will generally require an appropriate New Zealand student visa. Students studying the degree online from outside New Zealand do not need a New Zealand student visa solely for the online study.

For an on-campus student, the relevant route is generally the Fee Paying Student Visa. Immigration New Zealand currently states that applicants must:

• Have an offer of place from an approved education provider.
• Have sufficient funds to pay tuition fees or an acceptable scholarship.
• Have sufficient funds for living expenses or an acceptable sponsor.
• Have acceptable insurance.
• Meet the applicable health and character requirements.
• Demonstrate genuine intentions to study in New Zealand.
• Meet the requirements concerning departure from New Zealand at the end of the stay.