MH201 - Mathematics (Applied)

Mathematics is one of the purest forms of thought, but its relevance to our everyday lives is fundamental. While its origins date back to ancient Greece, Mathematics continues to underpin key areas of human endeavour and industry, from engineering to construction to economics to software development to space travel. All of the sciences are also deeply reliant on Mathematics.

For many, the appeal of Mathematics – and what makes it unique – is its basis on proof. Unlike those working in any other discipline, mathematicians are able to make statements with absolute certainty. Once a theory is proved, it is proved forever and cannot be refuted. Pythagoras' famous theorem for measuring the sides of right-angled triangles is as true today as it was when he formulated it in the 6th Century BC. As a student, you will progress from the foundations of school maths all the way to the threshold of ground-breaking new research in the field. You will gain a firm grounding in the key areas of Mathematics, before progressing to more advanced knowledge and skills, including practical work with computer algebra systems. You will begin to develop the ability to invent, criticise and perfect Mathematics for yourself. You will learn to think hard and rigorously about questions and to solve new problems – invaluable skills that can be transferred to any area of life. You will also advance right to the cutting edge of current research and its applications in modern science and technology.

Applicants are required to have a minimum of six subjects in the Irish Leaving Certificate with two Higher Level papers at C3 and four Ordinary or Higher Level papers at grade D3

OD3/HD3 in a Science subject (i.e. Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Physics with Chemistry)

Many students choose to combine the further study of Mathematics with a vocational area. Examples include the MCompSci, HDipIT, MSc/PhD in Statistics, MMgmtSci., MSc in Computational Mathematics, MSc in Applied Mathematics, MSc in Computer Science, and MEconSci.

There has always been a high demand for well-trained mathematicians. A degree in Mathematics not only provides specialist knowledge, it also trains graduates to think logically and clearly. Areas where these skills are highly sought include finance and banking; insurance; the civil service; teaching; industrial and commercial management; administration; technical, scientific and engineering work; and research and development.

Many occupations directly use skills that are acquired during the study of Mathematics. Examples include systems analysis, aerospace research, electronic engineering, and the scientific civil service. Statisticians can also find employment in industry, medicine, market research or government service. Many students go on to work in institutes of technology and universities around the country. Students of Applied Mathematics can be found working or conducting research in fields such as science, technology, engineering, economics, computing, telecommunications, banking, finance, and internet and military security.