In second year, we offer you the opportunity to expand your knowledge and skill in the 'core' areas of mathematics and statistics and, at the same time, to begin to specialise towards Applied Mathematics, Pure Mathematics, or Statistics.

Some of the courses you take are determined by your choice of Majors/Minors (in the Science degree program 3970 or combined degree programs) or a study plan (in Advanced Science). Other courses are 'free electives' which you can choose for yourself.

The information given here is to help you choose your electives, starting with a list of courses together with links to a fuller description of each course. Many of the courses are available at Higher level as well as Ordinary, so we offer advice on whether to take Higher courses. Finally, there is a guide to the differences between Applied, Pure and Statistics and how this may affect your choice of courses.

What do we offer?

Higher level or not?

If you did well in your first year of mathematics (70 or better) and enjoyed it, you should consider taking at least some of your second (and later) year courses at the higher level. 

These courses are more demanding, but more rewarding. You will begin to understand why Mathematics and Statistics works, rather than merely how. This gives you a more solid foundation for using mathematics and statistics in other areas, as well as for further studies in Mathematics or Statistics. It also makes it easier for you to continue to an honours degree in Mathematics or Statistics, if you decide that you want to.

Applied, pure or statistics?

Students at UNSW can study subjects from applied mathematics, pure mathematics, and statistics. You may already know which of these areas you want to specialise in; if not, don't worry, and keep your options open. Some more information is given below.