Considering a degree in mathematics and looking for a university where you can thrive academically, learn from the country’s best teachers, and enjoy a vibrant student lifestyle?
These are just a few of the advantages of studying mathematics at UQ. There are plenty of other reasons we (and our graduates) believe we’re one of the best universities to study mathematics at in Australia. Read on to discover what sets us apart from other institutions offering undergraduate studies in maths.
Learn from Australia’s best teachers
At UQ, you'll learn from some of the best minds in the field. UQ’s School of Mathematics and Physics is home to internationally renowned teachers who are also passionate about research. These experts bring their extensive knowledge into the classroom, ensuring you get a top-tier education. With smaller class sizes, you'll also have more opportunities for personalised interactions and mentorship.
Dr Poh Wah Hillock is a UQ Associate Professor in mathematics and a fantastic example of a teacher who goes above and beyond to support her students. In 2022, she was named Australia's University Teacher of the Year in recognition of her personalised and fun approach to teaching.
Poh has helped more than 20,000 students unravel complex mathematical concepts in a way that’s easy to understand and ignites excitement.
“It’s incredibly rewarding when that magical 'aha' moment lights up a student’s face,” Poh says.
“I love connecting with my students, learning their stories, witnessing their growth and sharing their triumphs and challenges. It is an amazing privilege to be part of their life journey.”
Poh’s passion is supporting students during their first year of mathematics, which she explains is critical in setting them up for success throughout their studies.
“If they stick with it through the first year, they understand the process, then everything else gets easier,” she says.
Learn about Poh’s teaching approach and discover how she could help you succeed in your studies:
Connect with industry
UQ has strong ties with industry partners, which means you'll have access to internships, work placements, and collaborative projects during your studies. These connections bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, making you a competitive candidate in the job market.
You could find yourself undertaking a Summer Industry Experience Program for 6-8 weeks with companies such as Queensland Health, Flight Centre and Suncorp.
UQ also offers Summer and Winter Research Programs to undergraduate students, where you can team up with UQ researchers and apply your mathematical knowledge to help make exciting new discoveries. From algebra and analysis to mathematical physics and computational mathematics, there are many topics you can delve into.
Choose a flexible course structure
At UQ, you can choose from more than 60 mathematics and statistics courses throughout your degree – more than any other Queensland university. The way you structure these into a program of study is up to you, and you have several options.
Our Bachelor of Mathematics offers a broad and flexible curriculum to suit your interests, with 5 majors on offer:
- Applied Mathematics
- Data Analytics and Operations Research
- Mathematical Physics
- Pure Mathematics
- Statistics
Mathematics can also be studied as a major in the Bachelor of Science, should you wish to integrate your knowledge with skills in another field. Or you can enhance your job prospects with a dual degree, combining mathematics with disciplines like computer science, engineering, or economics. This flexibility ensures you can tailor your studies to your career aspirations.
Explore UQ’s range of undergraduate mathematics programs.
The problem-solving skills I developed during my mathematics degree have been so widely applicable to the range of projects I have worked on in my undergraduate research and in my role as a Data Analyst Consultant.
Prepare for a varied career
Studying mathematics at UQ opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities in tech, government, banks and stock traders, universities and research institutes, and much more. You could find yourself working as a data scientist, cyber security specialist, software engineer, quantitative analyst or academic researcher.
Our graduates are highly sought after in various fields due to their analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and strong quantitative background. You can also set yourself apart from other candidates in the job market by building on your leadership skills via UQ’s dedicated Leadership and Mentoring program in Science.
At UQ, you’ll receive support to help ease your transition from university to employment. Our careers and employability team offer workshops and career counselling, and organise networking events to help you launch a successful career. They’ll even help you write your resumé and practise for a job interview.
Discover the types of careers our mathematics graduates have pursued.
My degree has equipped me with multifaceted tools of problem solving, abstract thinking and work ethic, which will be invaluable to me for the rest of my life.
Graduate with a global reputation
Don’t just take our word for it that UQ is one the best places to study mathematics – look at the facts. UQ consistently ranks among the top universities globally, and our mathematics programs are highly regarded.
In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024, UQ is ranked #1 in Queensland for mathematics and statistics, #3 in Australia and #80 in the world. This international recognition enhances the value of your degree, opening doors to professional and academic career opportunities worldwide.
As a UQ graduate, you'll be part of a community that supports and inspires you throughout your career. You'll join a network of successful alumni who have made significant impacts in academia, industry, finance, and technology.
Explore UQ’s Bachelor of Mathematics to discover more reasons you should put us as your first QTAC preference.
