UCD Mathematical, Physical & Geological Sciences “I spent my first two years taking modules in pure Maths, Applied Maths, Statistics, Geology and Physics to try to find my niche. Eventually I decided to go with Applied and Computational Mathematics. For me, it was the perfect balance between physical problems, maths problems and programming. In this course, you get to learn about a lot of advanced areas of Mathematics and you also learn how to apply these methods to real-life physical systems. I am currently researching for a PhD at UCD in wave turbulence, an area of Mathematics which has potential applications in engineering and optics.”
Applied & Computational Mathematics
Shane Walsh Graduate
BSc (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
CAO Code DN200 Why is this course for me? If you enjoy studying Mathematics for the Leaving Certificate, the UCD degree in Applied & Computational Mathematics will train you in the essential mathematical and computational skills in modelling, analysis and simulation needed to solve problems arising throughout the physical and life sciences, engineering, business and finance sectors. Today’s challenges faced by science and engineering are so complex that they can be analysed and solved only through mathematical and computational modelling. Mathematical models create representations of complex real-world phenomena in a precise, quantitative way. Fundamental insights can then be obtained by analysing these models through a combination of mathematical analysis and computational simulation. Outside the traditional spheres of science and engineering, mathematical modelling and simulation techniques are increasingly used in the social sciences, communication, business and finance sectors. What will I study? This is a sample pathway for a degree in Applied & Computational Mathematics. Sample topics include dynamical systems and chaos, financial mathematics, oceanography, mathematical biology, fluid dynamics, relativity and quantum mechanics. First Year
Applied & Computational Mathematics ¬ Mathematics ¬ Optional Science modules ¬ Elective modules Second Year
Applied & Computational Mathematics (includes Mathematics/Statistics modules) ¬ + 1 other Science subject ¬ Elective modules.
Dr Lennon Ó Náraigh UCD School of Mathematics & Statistics Belfield, Dublin 4
Third Year
Applied & Computational Mathematics ¬ Elective modules
CAO Points Range 2016 510—625
Fourth Year
DN200 Places 400
Applied & Computational Mathematics All Science courses are full time, with many student timetables running from 9.00am to 5.00pm or later. Depending on the subject choices, a weekly timetable can include lectures, practicals and tutorials. Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.
Length of Course 4 Years
For general entry requirements, see pages 196-203 Leaving Cert Subject Entry Requirements ¬ O3/H6 in Mathematics ¬ O3/H6 in a laboratory science (Applied Mathematics or Geography may be used instead of a laboratory science subject) and ¬ O6/H7 in English, Irish and two other recognised subjects Other school leaving examinations See www.myucd.ie/applying-to-ucd
Career & Graduate Study Opportunities Graduates with training in Applied & Computational Mathematics work in fields as diverse as:
Level 5/6 QQI-FET See www.ucd.ie/registry/admissions/FET.html
–– Physics: nanoscience, quantum optical processes in semiconductors and robotics –– Biology: biomedical applications, medical instrumentation and bio-information technology –– Finance –– Pharmaceutical industry –– Environmental agencies and companies –– Computing in business, technology, research and academia
Mature Entry Route See www.ucd.ie/maturestudents
Level 6/7 Progression Routes Yes, see www.ucd.ie/myucd/hetac
Special Entry Recommendations We recommend that all students in Applied & Computational Mathematics should have a minimum Grade H3 in Leaving Certificate Mathematics, or equivalent.
International Study Opportunities Students may apply to study abroad for a semester or year in third year in a range of worldwide universities. Potential universities include: –– University of Texas at Austin, USA –– University of California, USA –– University of Perugia, Italy –– University of Konstanz, Germany.
lennon.onaraigh@ucd.ie +353 1 716 2546 facebook.com/UCDScience
Other courses of interest Computer Science Theoretical Physics
www.ucd.ie/myucd/ appliedandcomputational mathematics
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