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MH101 - Mathematics (Pure)
Go to Course - Bachelor Of ArtsH2 Mathematics or equivalent required to choose Mathematics (Pure) as a subject in the MH101 BA degree.
Overview
Mathematics is everywhere. From engineering to construction, economics to software development, and even space travel – maths drives human progress.
If you already excel in maths, the BA Mathematics (Pure) under MH101 is an ideal choice. It focuses on giving you a deeper understanding of mathematics, and on constructing arguments that establish truth.
What you’ll learn
Mathematics is the logical and abstract study of pattern. It moves between the concrete and the abstract, drawing inspiration from the changing world around us.
If you’re interested in abstract maths and have a flair for analytical reasoning, you’ll enjoy pure mathematics.
The ideas developed in abstract maths often lead to surprising and important applications in real life.
You’ll learn invaluable skills that can be transferred to any future career, like:
- problem-solving
- thinking logically and clearly
- thinking hard and rigorously
Pure mathematics examines our conceptual understanding and asks ‘why?’, giving you greater scope for creativity.
Mathematics at Maynooth University
Mathematics degrees at Maynooth University aim to bridge the gap between school maths and more advanced ideas.
With us, you’ll gain a firm foundation in mathematics while developing the ability to invent, critique and perfect mathematics for yourself.
Subject Structure
First year
As a Double Major BA degree Mathematics (Pure) (groups 1 & 3) is taken with 1 or 2 other Arts subjects, which may include Critical Skills in first year
See subject groups for compatible subjects excluding groups 1 & 3
Second year
- Double Major
You must achieve an average mark of at least 50% in Mathematics (Pure) in first year and pass your other subject. - Major Mathematics (Pure)
You must achieve an average mark of at least 50% in Mathematics (Pure) in first year and pass your other subject.
NOTE: If you do not achieve at least 50% in Mathematics (Pure) in first year and wish to continue with Mathematics, you must transfer to the double major Mathematical Studies plus one of your other first year subjects or progress to a double major degree in two of other your first year subjects.
- Optional 10 credit Elective in second year
- Optional Erasmus/Study Abroad after second year
Final year
- Mathematics (Pure) is taken as a Single Major, on its own, or Major/Minor or Double Major with your 2nd year subject
Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Entry requirements
Leaving Certificate applicants are required to present (as a minimum): 2H5 & 4O6/H7 and O6/H7 in Irish, English, 3rd language. H2 Mathematics required to study Maths (Pure).
Postgraduate
Postgraduate study is also available, and our academic staff have a diverse range of research interests in areas including algebra, analysis, data analysis, dynamics, geometry, number theory, statistical modelling and topology. Visit the Department website for more information about postgraduate options.
Careers
Well-trained mathematicians are always in demand. A degree in Mathematics from Maynooth University will equip you with specialist knowledge along with the ability to think clearly and logically. These skills are highly sought after in:
- finance, banking and trading
- data analysis
- information technology
- insurance
- the civil service
- teaching
- industrial and commercial management
- administration
- technical, scientific and engineering work in industry and in research and development
Mathematics Options in Maynooth University
Every maths programme contains a mixture of procedural elements ("How do we do this?") and conceptual understanding ("Why does this work?"), with creativity an important ingredient in both. Mathematical Studies concentrates more on the "How", while Pure Maths delves much more into the "Why" and gives greater scope for creativity.
For most students, BA Maths Studies (within MH101) and the closely related BSc Applied Maths (within MH201) are the best choices. These are primarily aimed at students who enjoy mathematics, but who might have difficulty with a more proof-oriented degree. Students see a broad range of mathematics topics, with an emphasis more on calculation than proof.
There are several Pure Maths degrees mainly differing in what other subject(s) are taken: Pure Maths in Arts (MH101) and the accelerated BSc degrees in Computational Thinking (MH603) and Theoretical Physics and Maths (MH206). All are suited for the very best maths students, and so all require a minimum of a H2 in Leaving Cert Maths. The focus is on giving students a deeper understanding of mathematics, and on constructing arguments that establish truth.
One other option that may appeal to students wishing to become teachers is the MH212 programme (which has three streams: Science/Maths/Maths and Computer Science, each with Education). Here, you can get the equivalent of a BSc and PME after 5 years or you can graduate with a BSc only in 4 years. This 5-year programme saves one year compared with the typical 4+2 years for separate BSc and PME programmes, and guarantees that a student is accepted into a PME-equivalent programme from the start of their degree. The maths in MH212 is similar in style to Maths Studies.