Course Overview
Mathematics is the science of numbers and quantities and it involves lots of calculations. As a field of study, it is a body of knowledge that involves the study of concepts such as quantity, structure, space and change. It is an essential tool in many fields including natural science, engineering, Medicine and Social Science such as Economics and Commerce among many others. Mathematics is all around us, in virtually everything we do. It is the building block for everything in our daily lives, from simple calculations to advanced applications including the design of mobile devices, architecture (ancient and modern), art, money, engineering and even sports among many other fields. Professionals in this field are known as mathematicians among other titles. In their day to day work, mathematicians use advanced mathematical models, formulas and topics to develop and understand mathematical principles, analyze data and solve real-world problems affecting businesses and people.
The Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics is a four year course that has been designed to teach students how to think logically and approach problems in analytical and creative ways. The overall objective of this course is to provide sound education in mathematics to those who have a true desire to pursue a career in mathematics. In both first and second years of study students take the university-wide, school-wide and other departmental common courses. The course provides for five main areas of specialisation which include; Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Operations Research and Actuarial Mathematics. The program focuses on applying maths to real-world problems and offer appropriate solutions. Upon successful completion of the course, graduates will have the skills and knowledge to work with scientists, engineers or economists to solve complex and practical problems with modern mathematical methods. In addition, they will have an opportunity to prepare, provide technical support and conduct research for high-technology industries, government, business and private companies among other areas.
Entry Requirement
For self sponsored students, at least a mean grade of C+ in KCSE. For Government sponsored students, the minimum cut point which is announced annually applies. The students should in addition have good performance in the following cluster subjects; Subject 1 MAT A, Subject 2 PHY, Subject 3 2nd GROUP II or any GROUP III, Subject 4 a GROUP II or a GROUP III or any GROUP IV or any GROUP V
Becoming a mathematician
If you are talented in maths, enjoys using numbers and formulas to solve real world complex problems and have true desire to pursue a career in mathematics, then pursuing this course might be a good choice for you. In addition, you should be prepared to develop skills that can help you grow and succeed in this profession.
Mathematicians are highly knowledgeable in mathematical topics and formulas as they regularly use methods such as; linear algebra, calculus, statistics and other advanced mathematical topics to solve complex problems. They also have good interpersonal and communication skills which enables them to interact well with others professionals and communicate effectively as they propose solutions to people who may not have extensive knowledge of mathematics.
Mathematicians must have excellent analytical skills that enable them to use mathematical techniques and models to analyze large amounts of data and be precise and accurate in their analysis. These professionals also have got excellent problem solving skills that enables them to devise new methods and solutions to problems encountered by scientists or engineers among other professionals.
Work environment.
Graduates of this course works in offices among other environments.
Career opportunities
Graduates of this course can work in areas such as; the banking and finance industry, utility companies, manufacturing, and insurance among other areas. Mathematics graduates are highly sought after in research, industry and government due to their excellent analytic ability, fundamental knowledge, broad scientific skills and the ability to think creatively and solve complex problems. Graduates of this course can also use their creativity and start their own ventures.
You may explore these courses
Bachelor of Science in Statistics
Bachelor of Economics and Statistics
Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science
Bachelor of Economics
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Mathematics
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics & Computer Science
Bachelor of Science in Financial Engineering