MH101 - Mathematical Studies
Go to Course - Bachelor Of ArtsOverview
Mathematics is essential to so much of our everyday lives. From engineering to construction, economics to software development, and even space travel – maths is the key to it all.
If you already enjoy maths, the BA Mathematical Studies (MH101) is the perfect choice. You’ll explore a broad range of mathematics topics but with an emphasis on calculation rather than proof.
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.
During your mathematical studies you’ll learn invaluable skills that can be transferred to any future career. These skills include:
- problem-solving
- thinking logically and clearly
- thinking hard and rigorously
Mathematics at Maynooth University
Mathematics degrees at Maynooth University aim to bridge the gap between the maths you study at school and more complex ideas.
With us, you’ll gain a firm foundation in the key areas of mathematics, while developing the ability to invent, critique and perfect mathematics for yourself.
Subject Structure
First year
- 15 credits of Mathematical Studies
- Choose 2 or 3 other subjects, which may include Critical Skills, from the available groups (maximum 1 subject per group - see groups table)
Second year and Final year
- Double Major, Major/Minor or Minor:
- Mathematical Studies is taken with another Arts subject
Or
- Mathematical Studies may be taken as a Single Major
Or
- Option to transfer into the MH402 BSc Quantitative Finance degree if you pass and achieve an average of at least 60% in each of the following subjects: 15 credit Economics/Finance subject, 15 credit Mathematical Studies subject and 15 credit Computer Science subject and pass your other subject.
Or
- You may transfer into MH415 BSc Economics degree if you pass and achieve an average of at least 60% in the subject Economics/Finance in first year and pass and achieve an average of at least 60% in Mathematical Studies in first year.
MH101:
- Optional 10 credit Elective in second year
- Optional Erasmus/Study Abroad after second year
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. O3/H7 Mathematics recommended.
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.
Visit the Department website for more information about postgraduate options.