Bachelor's Programme in Mathematics

Mathematics is the universal language of natural scientists above all others – and now also of social scientists and economists. At the same time, mathematics is part of our cultural heritage. It captivates people with its challenging problems, its connection to logic and philosophy, and its aesthetic qualities. Today, advanced mathematical methods are used not only in traditional technical contexts, but also in a range of new areas. For example, mathematics is the basis for planning flight routes, encrypting messages, pricing options or insurance premiums, testing medicines, developing computer games or search engines. The need for professional mathematical skills has therefore increased in many areas of the labour market. In research, mathematical models and analyses are used to describe reality. At the same time, mathematics is an independent and vibrant field of research that is constantly evolving, both independently of practical applications and in interaction with them. **Matematikprogrammet** is aimed at those who are interested in mathematics, whether you are attracted by the beauty of the subject or its many exciting applications. The programme offers you a solid and well-structured education in mathematics and mathematical statistics. The programme is demanding, but as a reward for your efforts, you will receive an education that gives you great freedom of choice in the future. #### About the programme As a mathematician, you need to have a good basic knowledge of various areas of mathematics. The Mathematics programme therefore begins with a basic block of three semesters consisting of fundamental courses in analysis, algebra, probability theory, statistics, numerical methods and programming. During the second half of the programme, you will specialise in one of the programme's three areas: Mathematics, Computational mathematics and Optimisation, or Mathematical Statistics. You also have the opportunity to broaden your knowledge by taking courses in other subjects such as physics, biology, economics, computer science or philosophy. #### Mathematics, and Computational Mathematics and Optimisation After completing the basic block, you will have such a strong background in mathematics that you can choose freely from a wide range of advanced courses in mathematics. Some of the courses are purely theoretical, with the aim of familiarising you with a particular mathematical theory, while others are more application-oriented. #### Mathematical Statistics Mathematical statistics studies chance and uncertainty using the concept of probability. Mathematical statistics is often divided into probability theory and statistics. Probability theory analyses what is meant by chance and is used to model various phenomena in nature, from particles to the world of economics. Statistics attempts to answer the question of what general conclusions can be drawn from real data that may be collected in nature, in a medical study or in society, or generated by experimental measurements. #### Teaching Teaching takes the form of lectures and lessons, as well as group work and computer labs. Success in mathematics studies requires a great deal of independent work, so only about one-third of the total working time is scheduled. The rest of the time, you are expected to read, calculate and think on your own and in collaboration with your classmates. #### Job market Mathematicians are in demand in the private sector, education and the public sector. As a mathematician, you will often be involved in research and development, and you may work with, for example: - optimisation of resources with regard to the environment and economy - encryption for secure communication over the Internet - testing of new drugs - opinion and market surveys - risk assessments of stock portfolios - pricing of options or insurance - modelling and numerical calculations in research and development - education In SACO's analysis of the labour market, the demand for mathematicians and statisticians is expected to be high over the next five years.