Numeracy in the BSc

Strong skills in mathematics, statistics, and computing are fundamental to science. You will begin building this quantitative foundation early in your studies and apply it throughout your major.

All BSc students must complete at least one approved numeracy course. You should complete this in your first year to ensure you are well-prepared for Stage II courses and beyond.

Numeracy course requirements and recommendations vary by major. Quantitative majors require specific numeracy courses, while other subjects offer recommendations or open choice.

Strongly recommended courses provide essential foundational skills closely tailored to your major’s future coursework. Where majors list courses as simply recommended, you are free to choose any approved option that fits your interests. Always check your major's specific recommendations before enrolling.

If you are majoring in Computer Science, Logic and Computation, Mathematics, Physics, or Statistics, or completing a BSc/BE(Hons) conjoint, your required core courses automatically fulfil the numeracy requirement.

If you are double majoring and your majors strongly recommend different numeracy courses, consider taking both to ensure you are fully prepared for advanced study in each subject.

COMPSCI 120

Basic mathematical tools and methods needed for computer science. Elementary mathematical skills for defining, analysing and reasoning with abstract objects used in programming are developed. Topics include integers and rational numbers, strings and sets, methods of proof, algorithms and functions, and elementary introductions to graphs, trees, counting and probability.

STATS 101/108

Intended for anyone who will ever have to collect or make sense of data, either in their career or private life. Topics include: Probability; confidence intervals, statistical significance, t-tests, and p-values; nonparametric methods; one-way analysis of variance, simple linear regression, correlation, tables of counts and the chi-square test.

MATHS 108

Covers selected topics in algebra and calculus and their applications, including: linear functions, linear equations and matrices; functions, equations and inequalities; limits and continuity; differential calculus of one and two variables; integral calculus of one variable.

MATH 110

A general entry to Mathematics for the natural sciences, following Year 13 Mathematics. Covers selected topics in algebra and calculus and their application to chemistry, biology and other natural sciences.

MATHS 120

A foundation for further mathematics courses, essential for students intending to major in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics or Physics. Develops skills and knowledge in linear algebra, together with an introduction to mathematical language and reasoning, including complex numbers, induction and combinatorics.

MATHS 130

A foundation for further mathematics courses, essential for students intending to major in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics or Physics. Develops skills and knowledge in calculus of functions of a single variable.

MATHS 199

University level mathematics for high-achieving students at high school. The numerical computing environment MATLAB is used to study beautiful mathematics from algebra, analysis, applied mathematics and combinatorics. Students will learn to write mathematical proofs and create mathematical models to find solutions to real-world problems.

PHYSICS 102

An introduction to the basic principles of physics. Key topics are the physical description of motion, electricity and magnetism. The course focuses on the science of everyday phenomena and the understanding of important physical concepts.

PHYSICS 120

For students progressing in physical science. Key topics are mechanics, energy, rotation, oscillations, waves and thermodynamics. This is a calculus-based course, focusing on fundamental principles, problem solving and hands-on exercises.

Numeracy Course details can be found in the online curriculum catalogue.

✓ Recommended: Broadens quantitative skills; any listed course is suitable.
✓✓ Strongly Recommended: Provides a strong foundation for Stage II/III progression in this major.
Req Required course: The numeracy course is specified by your major.