Click the links for an overview of the subject and its topics.
Pure Mathematics is the study of mathematics per se, which may either provide satisfaction without the need of any outside applicative motivation or be later used in various fields of science, technology, and engineering. In Applied Mathematics (Mechanics), mathematics is applied to the study of the motion of physical objects, focusing primarily on the principles of mechanics.
To study Mathematics at both Advanced and Intermediate Level, a pass (Grade 1-5) in SEC Mathematics is required. To pursue the study of Pure Mathematics at Advanced level, it is highly recommended to have obtained a Grade 3 or better in Mathematics at SEC level. It is also advisable to be in possession of a good grade in Mathematics at SEC level if you intend to choose Pure Mathematics at Intermediate level.
At Advanced level, you will have six hours of lectures and a one-hour tutorial every week – that’s seven hours weekly in total. At Intermediate level, you will have three lecturing hours per week.
No. Pure Mathematics, at both Advanced and Intermediate level, requires no other subject, at any level, to be chosen in tandem. However, if you intend to pursue a career in mathematics or in a mathematics-intensive field of study, it is recommended to take Applied Mathematics at least at Intermediate level together with Pure Mathematics at Advanced level. Moreover, several University courses require another subject together with Mathematics, usually Physics or Computing. Refer to the questions ‘Which University courses require Pure Mathematics at Advanced/Intermediate level?’ for more information.
No. Any subject at any level can be chosen together with Pure Mathematics.
Algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus (the study of change) are the main topics studied during the first year, for both Pure Mathematics at Advanced level and at Intermediate level. During the second year, topics such as matrices, curve sketching, and further calculus are studied at both levels. Overall, at intermediate level, the depth of study is lower than that reached at Advanced level.
Follow this link for a list of university courses requiring Pure Mathematics at Advanced level, displayed in the green panel.
For the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Built Environment Studies course, Applied Mathematics at Advanced level may replace Pure Mathematics at Advanced level as a requirement.
Follow this link for a list of university courses requiring Pure Mathematics at Intermediate level, displayed in the orange panel.
For the Bachelor of Science in IT (Honours) or the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Physics, Geosciences or Banking and Finance courses, choosing Pure Mathematics at Advanced level instead of at Intermediate level is recommended.
