Code
MATH1020
Credits
25
Graduate Attributes
Introduction
Mathematics is the language of engineering—and this unit gives you the tools to speak it fluently. Focused on core topics in calculus and complex numbers, this unit lays the groundwork for the mathematical modelling and analysis you’ll encounter throughout your engineering degree. You’ll sharpen your understanding of how rates of change and areas under curves relate to the real-world systems engineers design and analyse. Moving beyond the basics, the unit extends your differentiation skills to handle more complex relationships and applies these tools to optimisation problems that mirror real engineering challenges. Integration techniques are explored not just in theory, but in their application to measuring lengths, surfaces, and volumes—essential for understanding materials, structures, and processes. The unit also introduces complex numbers—powerful mathematical constructs that underpin modern electrical, mechanical, and control systems. You’ll learn how to represent, manipulate, and apply them, especially in solving polynomial equations and modelling oscillatory systems. To round out your skills, the unit touches on first- and second-order differential equations, which are fundamental to describing dynamic systems in engineering. If you’ve completed WACE Mathematics Methods or equivalent, this unit will bridge the gap between high school mathematics and the analytical demands of professional engineering practice. Whether calculating flow rates, stress distributions, or circuit responses, this unit ensures you have the mathematical toolkit to tackle what lies ahead. This unit, in line with current research and university values, strives to achieve a positive and inclusive educational environment. This supports improved academic performance, increased confidence and creates a greater sense of safety and belonging. Your teaching team is committed to providing a safe and inclusive learning experience and requires students to take reasonable and appropriate measures to actively eliminate discrimination on the basis of ability; cultural and social background; and diverse sex, sexuality, and gender
Lecture
3 x 1 Hours Weekly
Computer Laboratory
1 x 1 Hours Weekly
Workshop
1 x 2 Hours Weekly
Unit Learning Outcomes
- 1 apply complex arithmetic to solve polynomial equations, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC6
- 2 demonstrate differential and integral calculus techniques for solving a range of problems, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC6
- 3 analyse functions using calculus to approximate and evaluate various properties, GC1, GC3
- 4 justify the appropriate technique to apply to solve a range of problems, GC1, GC2, GC4, GC6
Course Learning Outcomes
- 1 Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of fundamental science, mathematics, data analytics, information science, and computing underpinning the broad field of engineering
- 2 Solve complex chemical engineering problems of industrial and societal significance through the application of discipline-specific and integrated bodies of knowledge, design and sustainability principles
Assessment Breakdown
Recent Unit Changes & Response to Student Feedback
Students are encouraged to provide feedback through student surveys (such as Insight and the annual Student Experience Survey) and interactions with teaching staff. Listed below are some recent changes to the unit as a result of student feedback. Students are encouraged to provide feedback through student surveys (such as Insight and the annual Student Experience Survey) and interactions with teaching staff. There have been no recent changes to the unit as a result of student feedback