Study with the Department of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

The Department of Mathematical and Physical Sciences has a supportive approach to teaching that offers students hands-on experience and close guidance from academic staff.

Our Mathematics major enhances problem solving. Data Science is also available as an undergraduate major in most degrees and in the Master of Data Science – giving students the opportunity to specialise in big data, cloud computing, analytical science or bioinformatics.

Our Physics major prepares students for a dynamic and creative career. Students build practical and theoretical skills from first year, and graduate ready to work in new and exciting roles in emerging areas.

And, Quantum Information Technology is available at the postgraduate level – giving students the opportunity to explore the core principles and underlying technologies of quantum computing.

Courses

MATHEMATICS COURSES

MATHEMATICS COURSES

Explore mathematical concepts, learn how to formulate and model abstract problems and build skills in problem solving, clear thinking and communication.

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STATISTICS COURSES

STATISTICS COURSES

Learn how to design experiments, collect data and summarise information. Develop skills in predicting and planning, and identify trends from masses of information.

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SHORT COURSES

SHORT COURSES

Real learning. Real skills. Real impact. Advance your career or upskill your team with flexible, industry-aligned courses that deliver practical, immediate results and fit in with your busy life.

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DATA SCIENCE COURSES

DATA SCIENCE COURSES

Explore advanced concepts in computing, mathematics and statistics. Learn to identify patterns, predict trends and support strategic decision-making to meet today’s challenges.

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GRADUATE RESEARCH

GRADUATE RESEARCH

Become a graduate researcher. Join a vibrant postgraduate community that specialise in fundamental and applied research to create innovative and practical solutions.

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PHYSICS COURSES

PHYSICS COURSES

Want to explore a discipline that will let you unlock the secrets of the small and invisible? Study physics at La Trobe alongside excellent research teams in exciting laboratories.

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RISE WITH LA TROBE

RISE WITH LA TROBE

Are you an Indigenous high school student or prospective mature age student? Our RISE with La Trobe Indigenous pathways program prepares you for university study.

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QUANTUM INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

QUANTUM INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Disrupt, innovate and discover. Build your scientific and technical capabilities to work in emerging industries with La Trobe's Master of Quantum Information Technology.

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LEARN BY DOING

The Department of Mathematical and Physical Sciences prides itself on a friendly and supportive environment, where lecturers know their students by name.

Mathematicians, statisticians and physicists learn by doing. Our programs are designed so that students can work in small groups, with guidance from academic staff.

Our students have access to La Trobe's Maths Hub and Science Hub, staffed by experts who help students to build their confidence and increase their skills. Mathematics, statistics and physics resources are available online, along with Zoom support from tutors. Students are encouraged to ask questions, learn new skills, and understand why Mathematics and Physics is an important part of their education and future career success.

The Department also hosts informal get-togethers in Bundoora and Bendigo, where students from different disciplines meet with staff to discuss, and work on, interesting problems not covered in the curriculum.

WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE

Work Based Learning is a feature of our Master of Data Science. Students gain practical experience in a range of industries – from science to finance – where the questions are not always clear cut and solutions need to be built from the basics learned in class.

Students complete a research project or an intensive industry placement with organisations including the Australian Institute of Sport, Telstra and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. La Trobe also has industry partnerships with Optus, Cisco and Pivot Maritime.

While learning to build solutions, our students are also building their professional networks. They are mentored by academic staff and industry partners.

The result: A work ready skillset that is particularly valued by our international students and serves to build strong connections with our communities.

A GLOBAL MINDSET

Our academic staff work with a range of international collaborators on the great challenges of our time.

Our researchers, for example, are modelling infectious diseases, working with experts in Australia and internationally to provide briefing reports and advice to governments.

Through our international research partnerships, our graduate researchers have the opportunity to spend time in research laboratories and facilities such as the European X-ray Free Electron Laser.

Our students have also received international travel scholarships through the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan (open to all Australian undergraduate students) and through the Department’s Ed Smith Travelling Scholarship for postgraduates.

And, we welcome many international students, mainly at a postgraduate level, who bring richness and diversity to our Department.