Applied & Computational Mathematics (APS1)

Applied & Computational Mathematics is one of the degree subjects available through the Mathematics stream in the common entry Science course. Students study similar modules for all degree subjects in the Mathematics stream in first year and will study modules for a minimum of two degree subjects in second year. At the end of second year, students choose their degree major. Assuming students meet all the academic requirements in first and second year, students are guaranteed a degree subject from the stream they are studying in second year. We do our best to ensure that students go on to study their top degree subject choice. As we offer plenty of degree subjects in each stream, students have a number of similar degree subjects to choose from as their degree major. For more information on choosing a degree major at the end of Second Year, visit the Mathematics stream page.

This is a sample set of modules that an Applied & Computational Mathematics student could study each year in UCD.

First Year
Scientific Enquiry • Introduction to Applied & Computational Mathematics • Calculus in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences • Applications of Differential Equations • Linear Algebra in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences • Statistical Modelling • Mathematical Analysis • Numbers & Functions • Mathematical Analysis • Optional Modules • Elective Module 

Second Year
Computational Science • Classical Mechanics • Calculus of Several Variables • Introduction to Probability • Oscillations & Waves • Vector Calculus • + modules for 1 other Subject • Elective Modules

Third Year
Advanced Computational Science • Advanced Mathematical Methods •Complex Analysis • Partial Differential Equations • Mathematical Biology • Metric Spaces • Numerical Methods • Dynamical Systems • Option Modules • Elective modules

Fourth Year
Research Project • Mathematics of Complex Networks • Mathematics of Machine Learning • General Relativity & Black Holes • Mathematical Fluid Dynamics • Option Modules 

Timetables & Assessment
Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full-time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials, depending on the subjects. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.

Below is a list of all modules offered for this degree in the current academic year. Click on the module to discover what you will learn in the module, how you will learn and assessment feedback profile amongst other information.

Incoming Stage 1 undergraduates can usually select an Elective in the Spring Trimester. Most continuing undergraduate students can select up to two Elective modules (10 Credits) per stage. There is also the possibility to take up to 10 extra Elective credits.

Students may apply to study abroad for a trimester in third year in partner institutions internationally.

Students have the opportunity to complete a Professional Placement module worth 5 credits. This module provides students with an opportunity to undertake a placement in industry (6-10 weeks) in the summer following Third Year. Students in recent years have completed internships in Flutter and Met Eireann. Students can also apply to complete research bursaries in UCD Research labs.

Placements are secured on a competitive basis and are subject to change each year.

Graduates with training in Applied & Computational Mathematics work in fields as diverse as analytics and forecasting, meteorology, energy systems, electronics, biomedical applications and bio-information, finance, pharmaceutical industry, environmental agencies and companies, and computing in business, technology, research, and academia.

By studying an undergraduate degree in the Science programme, you will be joining a global community of scientists and will be taught by world-class researchers at the forefront of research in one of the most innovative and diverse programmes in Ireland, encompassing biology, sustainability, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, mathematics and computer science. Faculty who teach on the Science programme draw on their research to provide an inclusive and equitable education for scientists who will be leaders and innovators in a range of industries and research institutes working towards a sustainable and equitable future. 

The curriculum is informed by the following research:

• Exploring and understanding the processes that drive and can mitigate and enable adaptation to global change from evolutionary, environmental and social perspectives at levels ranging from molecular and genetic to individual, ecosystem and landscape

• Translating fundamental discoveries to a greater understanding of health and disease, with the ultimate aim of informing novel drug discovery

• Performing fundamental and applied research with a focus on current societal challenges including the energy transition, environmental change, geohazards and access to natural resources

The College of Science offers a range of degree subjects within the Science and Sustainability common entry courses that embed sustainability principles and are working towards the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• Good Health and Well-being (SGD 3)
• Quality Education (SDG 4)
• Affordable and Clean Energy (SGD 7)
• Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9)
• Sustainable Cities and Communities (SGD 11)
• Responsible Consumption and Production (SGD 12)
• Life Below Water (SDG 14)
• Life on Land (SDG 15)

The programmes at UCD are designed to equip students with the best education in their chosen field, while at the same time embedding the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDGs) in their education where most relevant.

After my first Applied & Computational Mathematics class, I knew it was the right choice for me. The chance to study further the mechanics and structure of Mathematics and learn how to apply it to not just Physics and Computer Science but to a wide range of other fields was thrilling. That, along with my time spent as a class representative, was so rewarding; getting to organise events, trips and hoodies for my class. As well as this, UCD Science gave me the opportunity to spend a trimester studying abroad in California, broadening my perspective and giving me a more varied education. My time at UCD left me well prepared for a masters at the University of Cambridge.

PJ Nee, Graduate