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Postgraduate Certificate in Mathematics - Learning Outcomes

Educational aims

This qualification will:

  • provide you with the opportunity to build on the knowledge and skills that you acquired through your successful study at undergraduate level
  • provide you with the opportunity to gain support and guidance as a postgraduate learner
  • enable you to study mathematics at taught postgraduate level required by the National Framework for Postgraduate Certificates.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of the certificate you should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following:

  • advanced concepts, principles and techniques from a limited number of topic areas.
  • advanced concepts and apply the mathematical methods learnt.
  • a range of advanced mathematical concepts and techniques, and how to apply them.

Cognitive skills

When you have completed this postgraduate certificate you will be able to:

  • solve some problems using the methods taught.
  • assimilate complex mathematical ideas and arguments.
  • develop abstract mathematical thinking.

Practical and/or professional skills

When you have completed this certificate you will be able to:

  • assimilate and communicate detailed technical arguments.

Key skills

When you have completed this postgraduate certificate, you will be able to demonstrate the following skills:

  • the ability to advance own knowledge and understanding through independent learning.
  • communicate clearly knowledge, ideas and conclusions about mathematics.
  • develop problem-solving skills and apply them independently to problems in one or two areas of pure and or applied mathematics.
  • communicate effectively in writing about the subject (using precise notations and coherent arguments of a variety of kinds).
  • improve own learning and performance (e.g. ability to organise study time, to study independently, exploit feedback and meet deadlines).

Teaching, learning and assessment methods

Relevant material is taught in the module texts and through the study of set books. Additionally there are a range of online tutorials and seminars as well as an extensive library of screencasts to support your learning. Your knowledge is built up gradually, with learning fostered by in-text examples. You assess your own progress and understanding by using the in-text problems and exercises at the end of each unit. You also engage with what is taught by attempting the tutor-marked assignment (TMA) questions, and your understanding is reinforced by personal feedback from your tutor in the form of comments based on your TMA answers.

Your understanding of principles, concepts, and techniques is assessed through the final, unseen, three-hour examination for each module.

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