Mathematical Sciences

Mathematics is an exciting and challenging field. Its application to real-life problems significantly impacts our society and our lives in varied and often surprising ways. 

Mathematical modelling is used to glean knowledge about ecosystems and evolutionary biology. It allows us to predict everything from the weather to human behaviour. Statistics is used to analyse and manage almost every aspect of life. In medical research, statistical analysis is used to determine drug policies and public health directives. 

Renowned for our training in rigour and logical thinking, we are at the cutting-edge of progress and discovery.  

We have a long and distinguished history of achievement in research and education. With a reputation for providing a stimulating and supportive learning environment, we prepare students for rewarding careers through majors in Applied Mathematics, Pure Mathematics and Statistics. 


Mathematical Science

Research

Our academics conduct world-leading research in areas such as:   

We have an exceptional track record in attracting research funding, and several of our academics hold prestigious Australian Research Council research fellowships. We are also home to the Adelaide node of the Australian Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical Frontiers.  

As a result, our research students work on cutting-edge projects with leading senior researchers in an inspiring and nurturing environment. 


  • Teletraffic Research Centre (TRC)

    The Teletraffic Research Centre, incorporating the Centre for Defence Communications and Information Networks, conducts research and development in the commercial and defence sectors. 

    The Teletraffic Research Centre (TRC) has expertise in communications engineering. We specialise in designing and improving state-of-the-art telecommunications systems in five areas.  

    Commercial  
    We use operations research, telecommunications analysis, complex-systems analysis and statistical techniques to solve commercial problems.  

    Defence  
    We work closely with government and the defence industry to improve complex systems’ performance through development, validation, exercising and analysis.  

    Communication Engineering  
    We design and improve state-of-the-art telecommunications systems, such as mobile ad-hoc networks, through traffic and other performance analyses.  

    Complex System Analysis  
    We model and analyse real-life complex systems, with multiple interacting components, such as maritime combat systems, social networks and financial markets.  

    Data Analytics  
    We analyse real-world data—‘big’ and ‘small’—to gain insights and drive performance improvement. Our work benefits data-driven industries, including everything from telecommunications to utilities and healthcare.  

  • Extensive undergraduate and postgraduate teaching

    Undergraduate

    Our undergraduate programs enable students to make better economic and political decisions by building skills in areas like logical processes, modelling real-world systems and optimisation. This mix of capabilities is highly valued by employers in fields such as finance, IT, scientific research, policy, resource allocation and logistics, delivering a wide range of career options to those who study with us. 

    Our Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences and Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences (Advanced) cover fundamental statistical and mathematical knowledge. The degrees offer students the chance to delve into abstract theories that underpin modern science. Students undertaking the Advanced program also have the chance to take three Advanced Mathematical Perspectives courses.  

    Entry pathways 

    We offer entry pathways into mathematical science for anyone who hasn’t completed Year 12, may have taken a gap year or are looking to return to study after a break. 

    Bridging course

    Our Mathtrackx bridging courses offer the chance to gain high school mathematics prerequisites. Successful completion will be accepted as a prerequisite in place of SACE Stage 2 Mathematical Methods at the University of Adelaide. We also offer a condensed six-course XSeries for those who need a refresher before embarking on their university studies. 


    Postgraduate

    Our Master of Mathematical Sciences is an intensive degree designed for students with backgrounds in related study areas.   

    Students build upon their mathematical sciences knowledge and research skills by specialising in Applied Mathematics, Pure Mathematics or Statistics. 

  • Higher Degrees by Research (HDR)

    Undertake a research degree in your chosen area of interest. We offer two postgraduate research degrees: 

    • The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a two-year full-time (or part-time equivalent) commitment, and teaches you about applying research methodology to critically evaluate literature and results in your field. 
    • The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is our flagship research award and is the standard qualification for a research career or academic position. 

    HDR opportunities

  • Collaborate with us

    The University of Adelaide’s mathematical sciences team is keen to collaborate with partners in industry and government. Partnering with us provides access to our internationally renowned mathematicians and statisticians, and our outstanding undergraduate and postgraduate students. 

    We offer in-depth expertise and research capabilities in:  

    The University of Adelaide provides a team of business development specialists and commercialisation to facilitate research collaborations, and teams to manage student internships and undergraduate and postgraduate levels. 

    Partner with us

  • Scholarships

    The University offers scholarships to undergraduate and postgraduate students. These scholarships (as well as many others) funded by industry and non-profit organisations, are available to potential and currently enrolled students. 

Professor Finnur Larusson

Discipline lead

Professor Finnur Larusson

Tel: 8 8313 3528
Email: finnur.larusson@adelaide.edu.au