Programme objectives

The purpose of the programme.

Engineering mathematics entails the application of mathematical theories, methods and models as well as programming in order to advance technological development. The overarching nature of the subject of mathematics makes it possible to use the same mathematical basis to solve problems in many different areas of application. Similarly, through generalisation and abstraction solutions developed in close connection with one application can be used for completely different applications. This education programme thus provides a broad knowledge base that can be applied in very different fields.

Programme objectives

To receive a Degree of Master of Science in Engineering Mathematics, the student must meet the objectives set out in the Higher Education Ordinance’s System of Qualifications for degrees in Engineering.

Upon completion of her/his education in Engineering Mathematics, the student must

• demonstrate broad knowledge and understanding of scientific bases and professional experience within the field of Engineering Mathematics, including knowledge of mathematics and natural sciences, substantially advanced knowledge in certain areas of Engineering Mathematics, as well as specialised insight into current research and development work.

• demonstrate specialised knowledge of how mathematical models are implemented through programming, as well as an advanced understanding of the usability and limitations of mathematical models and numerical methods.

In addition to the knowledge and understanding objectives specified above, upon completion of her/his education in Engineering Mathematics, the student must

• demonstrate knowledge of the role of mathematics as a universal language in the technological development of society.

• demonstrate knowledge of the importance of abstraction and theory building.

Upon completion of her/his education in Engineering Mathematics, the student must

• demonstrate the ability to critically, independently and creatively identify, formulate and address complex problems within the field of Engineering Mathematics.

• demonstrate the ability to create, analyse and critically evaluate various technological solutions, e.g. algorithms and software.

• demonstrate the ability to plan and carry out qualified tasks with adequate methods and within given frameworks, as well as the ability to evaluate this work.

• demonstrate the skills required for participation in research and development work, or to work independently in some other qualified capacity and thereby contribute to knowledge development.

• demonstrate the ability to critically and systematically integrate knowledge and to analyse, assess and address complex phenomena, problems, and situations, even with limited information.

• demonstrate the ability to model, simulate, predict and evaluate events, even with limited information.

• demonstrate the ability to develop and design products, e.g. algorithms and software, processes and systems, taking into account people’s conditions and needs and society’s goals for economically, socially and ecologically sustainable development.

• demonstrate the ability to engage in teamwork and collaboration in groups of various compositions.

• demonstrate the ability to clearly present and discuss her/his conclusions and the knowledge and arguments on which they are based, in both national and international contexts, both orally and in writing, and in dialogue with different groups.

In addition to the skills and abilities objectives specified above, upon completion of her/his education in Engineering Mathematics, the student must

• demonstrate the ability to mathematically formulate and analyse problems, even where the involvement of mathematics is not initially obvious, to discuss the limitations and merits of the models, and to provide solutions and analytical results in response to the original problem.

• demonstrate the ability to design and implement algorithms, to simulate and visualise processes with the aid of a computer, to evaluate computer calculations, and to identify similarities in models and methods in various fields of science and technology.

• demonstrate the ability to use the mathematical language to communicate and interact with others – both engineers and non-engineers, both orally and in writing.

Upon completion of her/his education in Engineering Mathematics, the student must

• demonstrate the ability to make assessments with regard to relevant scientific, societal and ethical aspects and demonstrate awareness of ethical aspects of research and development work.

• demonstrate an understanding of the possibilities and limitations of science and technology, their role in society, and mankind’s responsibility with regard to their use – including social, economic, environmental and health and safety aspects.

• demonstrate the ability to identify her/his own need for further knowledge and to take responsibility for the continuous development of her/his knowledge and expertise.