Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences

Purpose

The purpose of the Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences qualification is to equip learners with a range of mathematical and, or statistical knowledge that they use in the solution of complex problems in the mathematical sciences. The qualification ensures that learners improve their critical thinking and analytical skills. Learners will be equipped with knowledge and skills that will allow them to solve problems or apply what they have learnt in real life.

The qualification will also enable the students to critique current research or practices. The programme also offers an advanced scholarship or research in a particular field, discipline or practice. To gain more understanding, learners engage in the necessary theory and practice that will deepen, broaden, and intensify their scope of theoretical concepts and expertise in the particular areas associated with mathematics. Learners also demonstrate specialist knowledge to enable engagement with and critique of current research or practices, and an advanced scholarship or research in a particular field, discipline or practice.

Additionally, learners will work on a dissertation that allows them to develop broader transferable skills in the processes of organising, communicating, and presenting their work and will equip students well for further research or a wide variety of other careers. Furthermore, an MSc in Mathematical Sciences degree is a stepping stone to pursuing a PhD in advanced mathematics and/or statistics or related fields such as data science, artificial intelligence (AI), and others.

Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to

• Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
• Demonstrate understanding of the role of the sciences in society regarding economic development and environmental sustainability.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply reasoning, problem-solving, and technical skills to solve a problem with minimal guidance.
• Demonstrate effective writing and communication skills.
• Engage in lifelong learning through well-developed learning skills to understand the need to maintain continued competence and keep abreast of up-to-date tools and techniques.
• Demonstrate advanced ability in techniques of scientific computing to solve problems in their field of study.

Rationale

The proposed qualification responds to a real need in that there is a critical shortage of graduates with Mathematical Sciences qualifications. Thus, the programme seeks to close the critical skills gap in Mathematical Sciences in South Africa. The goal is to promote the growth of a scientific knowledge system that drives economic growth and development.

The qualification also provides a unique opportunity for learners to expand and improve their research skills in the mathematical sciences' subfields: Applied Mathematics, Mathematics or Statistics. This allows one to gain specialised knowledge to advance in respective specialisation fields. The programme equips students with the necessary critical thinking and problem-solving skills that can be applied to solve real-life problems such as the Covid-19 pandemic.

The MSc in Mathematical Sciences degree is a stepping stone to pursuing a PhD in advanced mathematics and/or statistics or related fields such as data science, artificial intelligence (AI), and others.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

There are several ways to assess RPL. However, in each case, evidence must be produced to support and facilitate the assessment decision process.

Any applicant seeking RPL will require an assessment that recognises broadly equivalent skills and knowledge as reflected holistically in the outcomes of the learning programme. Each RPL case will be treated on its own merits and may include one or more of the following procedures.

• A portfolio of evidence (supporting documents that have been compiled) that should meet the outcomes for which learning will be recognised. (The applicant may be assisted by the teaching department in the preparation of the portfolio, although ideally not by the assessors)
• A demonstration of competence in a particular skill
• An oral presentation presented to at least two members of staff appointed by the teaching department who will determine whether the outcomes for credits sought are met
• An oral viva presented to at least two members of the teaching department where the applicant engages in a question-and-answer session that addresses the outcomes of the learning programme for which credit is being sought.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical Sciences, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical Statistics, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma in Mathematical Sciences, NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Level 9, totalling 180 Credits.

Elective Modules, NQF Level 9, totalling 180 Credits (Select one)

• Applied Mathematics Research, 180 Credits.
• Mathematics Research, 180 Credits.
• Statistics Research, 180 Credits.

Exit Level Outcomes

Develop the ability to work creatively and independently.

1. Apply science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards others.
2. Demonstrate an ability to work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, or community.
3. Engage in lifelong learning through well-developed learning skills to understand the need to maintain continued competence and keep abreast of up-to-date tools and techniques.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
5. Demonstrate understanding and be culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.
6. Apply understanding of the role of the sciences in society regarding economic development and environmental sustainability.
7. Demonstrate understanding and proficiency with fundamental knowledge in at least one scientific area of research.
8. Apply reasoning, problem-solving, and technical skills to solve a problem with minimal guidance.
9. Engage in and initiate academic and scientific discourse to report and effectively write and communicate results.
10. Demonstrate advanced ability in techniques of scientific computing to solve problems in their field of study.
11. Demonstrate, successful completion of a programme of training in the methods of research; a thorough understanding of the scientific principles underlying the project; and a thorough acquaintance with the appropriate scientific literature.

Associated Assessment Criteria

The following Associated Assessment Criteria are assessed in an integrated manner across all the Exit Level Outcomes

• Engage with and collate the relevant literature in the respective field of study and its interpretation in the context of the specific investigation.
• Apply scientific research methodology and illustrate broader knowledge of experimental techniques and theoretical concepts.
• Apply systematic planning of investigations and experiments and be capable of planning and executing research work in a specific field.
• Investigate the existing knowledge as reflected in appropriate scientific literature.
• Solve the problem research appropriately.
• Analyse, interpret, derive and critically evaluate information from data.
• Present skillfully and meaningful findings in the form of a dissertation.
• Conduct independent research under limited supervision and critically evaluate research articles.
• Illustrate knowledge and understanding of ethics of scientific research and practice.