The discipline of mathematics is broadly encountered in two forms, as an applied technique that aids other technical disciplines, and as a pure, logical science that’s purpose is its own development. From simple counting to mapping out the motions of planets, Mathematics has been invaluable in furthering human development. The curriculum at BITS mirrors that of the Indian Statistical Institute by placing equal emphasis on pure as well as applied math.
WHAT MATHEMATICS DO
Research in mathematics has many paths, with mathematical modelling, group and ring theory, and graph theory being some of the sub-domains currently under exploration. Actuarial science, a discipline that applies mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk in insurance, manufacturing and finance, is one of the more lucrative career options for students with a mathematics background. Data science, a job profile rapidly rising in value, is based in statistics, and hence a Mathematics degree provides a considerable edge.
WHAT YOU STUDY AT BITS TO BECOME ONE
As with all MSc degrees, core courses in math start only in the third semester. The compulsory math courses of first year give students background in the most fundamental areas such as Vector Calculus, Linear Algebra, Complex Analysis and Probability. Compulsory Disciplinary Courses (CDC’s) such as Algebra-I and Elementary Real Analysis inculcate rigorous thinking, while Optimisation and Discrete Maths facilitate application based thinking. Interdisciplinary courses such as Graphs and Networks provide valuable insight into key Computer Science concepts.Third year courses in ordinary and partial differential equations can help provide a thorough background for core engineering subjects. Alongside these, increasingly abstract topics such as Topology and Functional Analysis can also be studied. BITS offers a diverse range of elective courses, from pure Mathematics courses like number theory, to more application focused courses like Fuzzy Logic, Statistical Inference, and Applied Stochastic Processes.
WHAT YOU CAN DO AFTER GRADUATING
As with most other MSc. courses, there are no Mathematics specific profiles offered on campus. This does not demerit the degree, however, as having knowledge of Mathematics can help in placements for other sectors. A Mathematics student can sit for placements of their chosen dual degree, and also of those domains that have no branch restrictions for recruitment. A Mathematics degree is a valuable counterpart for any engineering degree. Research is the predominant way forward for students who wish to carry on in Mathematics. The final year thesis can help decide if one is cut out for the role of a Mathematics researcher.