Program Overview

Mathematics and Astrophysics BSc (Hons)

The Mathematics and Astrophysics BSc (Hons) program is offered by the School of Science and Engineering at the University of Dundee.

Teaching

Our teaching methods include:

• lectures
• workshops
• practical classes
• tutorials
• module-specific problem classes
• peer-to-peer tuition and exam preparation in conjunction with our undergraduate Physics and Mathematics Societies
• talks by invited speakers

You will also meet regularly with an academic adviser of studies who will give guidance and support throughout your degree.

Assessment

Our assessment methods include:

• exams
• extended assignments
• weekly problems
• formal reports
• practical lab work
• in-class presentations as individuals and/or groups
• practical research methods

Core Modules

These modules are an essential part of your course.

Year 1

• Mechanics (EG11008)
  • Module code: EG11008
  • Credits: 10
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: Mechanics is all about understanding how and why things move.
• Core Mathematics I (MA11001)
  • Module code: MA11001
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: Mathematics 1A is an introductory mathematics module. It covers fundamental concepts such as algebra, calculus, and geometry.
• Fundamental Algebra and Calculus (MA11002)
  • Module code: MA11002
  • Credits: 10
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: Algebra involves manipulating expressions and solving equations. Calculus focuses on change and motion, with methods to analyse rates of change and calculate areas under curves.
• Core Mathematics II (MA12001)
  • Module code: MA12001
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Mathematics 1B builds on the foundational concepts introduced in Mathematics 1A.
• Statistics and Probability (MA12003)
  • Module code: MA12003
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: This module introduces you to statistics and probability.
• Professional Skills (PH11002)
  • Module code: PH11002
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: Develop analytical approaches to problem-solving and communication skills that employers value.
• Space Physics and Astronomy (PH12003)
  • Module code: PH12003
  • Credits: 10
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Apply the laws of physics to understand orbits, the formation and evolution of stars, and the structure of galaxies and the Universe as a whole.
• Waves and Mechanics (PH12005)
  • Module code: PH12005
  • Credits: 10
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Explore how forces, fluids, and waves shape the world around you.
• Personal Development Planning (SD10001)
  • Module code: SD10001
  • Credits: 5
  • Semester: Both Semester 1 and 2
  • Description: Starting university is a big step and we're here to help you make the most of it.

Year 2

• Core Mathematics III (MA21001)
  • Module code: MA21001
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: You will learn about a key structure called a vector space.
• Core Mathematics IV (MA22001)
  • Module code: MA22001
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Previously seen concepts such as linear independence, basis and null spaces are explored.
• Electromagnetism and Light (PH21001)
  • Module code: PH21001
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: Electromagnetism and light describes the physics of electric and magnetic fields and how they are connected.
• Introduction to Programming (PH21002)
  • Module code: PH21002
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: Master programming in Python and MATLAB through hands-on labs.
• Classical and Quantum Matter and Radiation (PH22001)
  • Module code: PH22001
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: The microscopic and sub-atomic world is described by quantum mechanics, and nuclear and particle physics.
• Fundamental Experimental Physics (PH22003)
  • Module code: PH22003
  • Credits: 20
  • Semester: Semester 2
• Personal Development Planning (SD20001)
  • Module code: SD20001
  • Credits: 5
  • Semester: Both Semester 1 and 2
  • Description: Now that you've settled into university life, it's time to build on the foundations you set in your first year.

Year 3

• Differential Equations (MA31002)
  • Module code: MA31002
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: This module explores an area of calculus involving derivatives of functions.
• Vector Calculus (MA31007)
  • Module code: MA31007
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: This module explores vector calculus, which is an area of mathematics that combines 3D geometry with calculus.
• Scientific Computing and Numerical Methods (MA32005)
  • Module code: MA32005
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Model real-world systems using numerical methods.
• Dynamical Systems (MA32011)
  • Module code: MA32011
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Study how systems evolve over time.
• Quantum Mechanics I (PH31005)
  • Module code: PH31005
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: Learn about the behaviour of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels.
• Quantum Mechanics II - Atoms and Molecules (PH32008)
  • Module code: PH32008
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Apply your quantum mechanics knowledge to study atomic and molecular structure.
• Classical Mechanics and Relativity (PH32017)
  • Module code: PH32017
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Explore how motion, forces, and energy work at every scale.

Year 4

• Mathematics Project (MA40001)
  • Module code: MA40001
  • Credits: 30
  • Semester: Both Semester 1 and 2
  • Description: You will independently study a specific mathematical topic.
• Ordinary Differential Equations and the Approximation (MA41003)
  • Module code: MA41003
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: This module explores calculus, specifically to find derivatives of functions.
• Fluids and Magnetohydrodynamics (MA41006)
  • Module code: MA41006
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Learn how maths models the motion of fluids and plasmas.
• Galaxies and The Universe (PH41009)
  • Module code: PH41009
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 1
  • Description: From black holes to the big bang, this module explores how galaxies form, evolve, and shape the universe.
• Nuclear and Particle Physics (PH42006)
  • Module code: PH42006
  • Credits: 15
  • Semester: Semester 2
  • Description: Explore the physics of the nucleus, particle interactions, and nuclear fusion.