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Diploma of Higher Education in Mathematics and Physics - Learning outcomes

Educational aims

This broad-based scientific qualification introduces you to mathematical and physical science concepts and thinking and helps you to develop a mathematical and scientific approach. The aims of this course are for you to achieve the following:

  • a lifelong interest in science through modules that are accessible to people of all educational backgrounds
  • understanding of the roles of different scientific subjects
  • enthusiasm for the study of science through understanding how scientific knowledge develops, and an appreciation of the limits of scientific knowledge
  • ability to apply the main tools of applied mathematics (particularly Newtonian mechanics, differential equations, vector calculus and linear algebra)
  • ability to model real-world situations and use mathematics to help develop solutions to practical problems
  • experience of the study of mathematics in some breadth and depth
  • understanding of some of the more advanced ideas within mathematics
  • development of your capability for working with abstract concepts
  • ability to communicate mathematical ideas and conclusions effectively
  • ability to work with others on mathematical modelling problems and their validation
  • the skills necessary to use mathematics in employment or to progress to further study of mathematics
  • ability to use a modern mathematical computer software package in pursuance of the above aims
  • development as an independent learner.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

Upon completion of this qualification, you’ll have knowledge and understanding of the following:

  • basic concepts of physics (for example, Newtonian mechanics)
  • core mathematical methods appropriate for the physical sciences (e.g. linear algebra, calculus and mathematical modelling).

Cognitive skills

Upon completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

  • apply judgment in selecting and applying a wide range of mathematical tools and techniques
  • apply qualitative and quantitative problem-solving skills
  • use and correctly apply knowledge and understanding of scientific facts, concepts, principles and theories in familiar and unfamiliar contexts
  • describe, critically analyse and interpret scientific information and data presented in a variety of ways, including texts, tables, graphs, diagrams and figures, numerical and mathematical descriptions and computer-based media.

Practical and/or professional skills

Upon completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

  • analyse and interpret data and report their significance in the light of the underlying theory
  • plan your learning and be adept at time management and organisation so that you can work independently or with others in ways appropriate for continuing personal and professional development
  • learn independently, able to acquire further knowledge with little guidance or support.

Key skills

Upon completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

  • read or listen to documents and discussions having mathematical or physical content, with an appropriate level of understanding
  • communicate mathematical or scientific information accurately and effectively, using a form, structure and style that suits the purpose
  • prepare mathematical or scientific content for various purposes, including writing for specialist and non-specialist audiences; writing reports on mathematical or scientific experiments or models; producing and delivering a presentation on a mathematical or scientific topic –  some content may require working collaboratively
  • exhibit a high level of numeracy
  • prepare, process, interpret and present data using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques
  • use information technology with confidence to acquire and present knowledge, model and solve practical problems and develop insight
  • locate scientific information from a variety of sources (e.g. textual, numerical, graphical, computer-based), including review and primary sources, and use it to address scientific problems.