The primary purpose of the BSc Honours qualification is to consolidate and deepen the students’ knowledge and expertise in Mathematics and to develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of it. BSc Honours is essentially a coursework degree of which at least 25% (30) of the credits are devoted to a research project and reporting under supervision.

Candidates who do not comply with the minimum admission requirements of programs in the Department of Mathematical Sciences, may be considered for admission to the BSc – Extended program for the Mathematical Sciences, which requires an additional year of study.

This qualification is primarily designed to provide a well-rounded, broad education that equips graduates with the knowledge base, theory, and methodology of the mathematical sciences.

The Honors Degree consists of a data analysis project (compulsory) and eight-semester modules chosen in consultation with the Head of the Department.

Mathematics, which originated from arithmetic and geometry, is based on patterns and structures and is the fundamental language of science and technology. Applied mathematics is concerned with the modelling and treatment of real-life problems in a variety of fields, such as engineering, finance, statistics, physics and biology. The power of mathematics and applied mathematics lies in their abstract, analytical and computational nature. Nowadays, mathematics is essential for all technological, financial and managerial industries, which form the backbone of the South African economy.

The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics is not only one of the largest departments on the Hatfield Campus, but also one of the largest mathematics departments in the country, with approximately 17 500 student enrolments for mathematics modules. The Department prides itself on excelling in teaching and research, as well as in community-based activities. The diverse and competent staff has expertise in various fields. The Department regularly hosts international visitors and its researchers frequently travel abroad to attend conferences and pay research visits. No fewer than 31 of its researchers have received NRF ratings in fields ranging from more traditional abstract analysis to contemporary epidemiology, where the modelling of biological phenomena leads to exciting options. A degree in mathematics trains students to apply, evaluate and adapt existing problem-solving techniques, or to develop new mathematical models and techniques to solve problems stemming from natural, technological and financial phenomena. Graduates in mathematics and applied mathematics are employed by research institutions, in education (universities and schools), the public sector (government and medical institutions) and the private sector (engineering companies, financial institutions and the computer industry).