Discrete Mathematics (MAST30012)
Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
Overview
| Availability | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
This subject is concerned with the study of objects, which are finite in number and typically computable. At a computational level one seeks efficient algorithms and methods for construction and counting of the objects.
The main topics to be covered are: enumeration, permutations, designs, finite geometry, words, Ramsey theory and physical combinatorics. Designs are relevant to statistics, Ramsey theory to computer science, and physical combinatorics to mathematical physics. Words are useful for representing and constructing objects and relating combinatorial objects to algebraic structures.
Intended learning outcomes
On completion of this subject, the student should:
- comprehend the features characterizing problems in discrete combinatorial mathematics;
- develop skills required to analyze and solve problems in discrete combinatorial mathematics;
- appreciate the overlap between discrete mathematics and other areas of applied and pure mathematics.
Generic skills
In addition to learning specific skills that will assist students in their future careers in science, they will have the opportunity to develop generic skills that will assist them in any future career path. These include
- problem-solving skills: the ability to engage with unfamiliar problems and identify relevant solution strategies;
- analytical skills: the ability to construct andexpress logical arguments and to work in abstract or general terms to increase the clarity and efficiency of analysis;
- collaborative skills: the ability to work in a team;
- time management skills: the ability to meet regular deadlines while balancing competing commitments.
Last updated: 20 March 2025
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
37.5 credit points of subjects including
One of
| Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAST20026 | Real Analysis |
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
|
12.5 |
| MAST10009 | Accelerated Mathematics 2 | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
| MAST20033 | Real Analysis: Advanced | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
AND
a minimum of 25 credit points of any other Level 2 subject from the School of Mathematics and Statistics
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 20 March 2025
Assessment
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
Three written assignments due at regular intervals amounting to a total of up to 50 pages
| During the teaching period | 20% |
A written examination
| During the examination period | 80% |
Last updated: 20 March 2025
Dates & times
- Semester 2
Coordinator Binzhou Xia Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 3 x one hour lectures per week, 1 x one hour practice class per week Total time commitment 170 hours Teaching period 22 July 2024 to 20 October 2024 Last self-enrol date 2 August 2024 Census date 2 September 2024 Last date to withdraw without fail 20 September 2024 Assessment period ends 15 November 2024 Semester 2 contact information
Time commitment details
Estimated total time commitment of 170 hours
What do these dates mean
Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:
- Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
- And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
- Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.
Last updated: 20 March 2025
Further information
- Texts
- Subject notes
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Major Discrete Mathematics / Operations Research Informal specialisation Operations Research / Discrete Mathematics specialisation Informal specialisation Pure Mathematics specialisation Informal specialisation Science Discipline subjects - new generation B-SCI Informal specialisation Discrete Mathematics / Operations Research Informal specialisation Discrete Mathematics / Operations Research - Breadth options
This subject is available as breadth in the following courses:
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Design
- Bachelor of Environments
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Acting)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Animation)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Film and Television)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Production)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Theatre)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual Art)
- Bachelor of Music
- Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Please note Single Subject Studies via Community Access Program is not available to student visa holders or applicants
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
- Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students
Last updated: 20 March 2025