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If you’re looking to study mathematics and hoping to one day make an impact in the field of maths, the institution you have chosen to pursue your studies at can either help you make it or break it. But how do we know which university is the best one to attend for a math degree? Does the country have any top mathematics universities?
When pursuing a degree in maths, the university you choose for your studies can greatly affect your study experience and your overall student life. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know which universities are among the top options when it comes to taking a math degree in Malaysia. Superprof is here to break down the top mathematics universities in Malaysia - let’s dive right in, shall we?
Find the right university to study for a math degree
The first thing to do if you want to settle for a university that is offering a mathematics course is to decide which universities you should apply to. There is no problem with sending in numerous applications to multiple universities, but now is no time for cool math games - it could take you weeks or even months before even narrowing down the list to possible universities. Here are some ideas that could save your time when choosing a mathematics university.
- Choose the right subject: Are you looking for a course in applied mathematics, statistics or computational mathematics? When choosing a math major to study, remember to do your background research on what the subject matter is really about and if it interests you, and if there are any potential career prospects for the math degree you are interested in. It is important to choose the right math subject that you are sure you will stick to for the next 3 to 4 years at university.
- Read the course structure: The course structure of the mathematics programmes offered by universities are usually available on their websites. Perhaps there is a specific area of study you are looking to study in your math degree - you can find this in the course content, too. You can also contact the university directly via email or phone to directly, which could give you more accurate and updated information about the maths course you are interested in.
- Check the rankings: Globally, the QR World University is the most widely viewed university ranking and can tell you how well a university is performing in terms of its academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty to student ratio, and so on. Meanwhile, the Asia University Rankings judges universities across in terms of teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook. These university rankings can help you shortlist mathematics universities, gain information about the universities you are considering or even directly compare two or more universities in specific performance areas.
- Find out other benefits: A math degree is not the sum of your university life - find out if the university has clubs or societies that could fuel your hobbies, such as athletics, debate, theatre or even the Student Council if you are passionate! Being active in your university is crucial to developing soft skills. A 2018 economics report found that 72% of employers demand graduates to have skills such as communication, teamwork, knowing how to solve problems, and emotional judgment upon hiring.
What else do you need to prepare for a degree in maths?
Which public university has the best math programme?
Malaysia has some of the top-ranking universities offering courses in mathematics. Based on world university rankings, we’ve narrowed down the best public universities to go to for your math degree:
University of Malaya (UM), Kuala Lumpur
At present, UM offers four undergraduate degree programmes under its Institute of Mathematical Sciences, which include mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, and actuarial science. Here we highlight their Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, which seeks to provide students with sound knowledge of maths, critical thinking, and analysis of math problems for various professions in diverse environments. Math degree students in UM are also given the opportunity to apply for exchange programmes via their International Student Centre.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang
You can select from the list of five math programmes at USM, which are under their School of Mathematical Sciences. Their programmes include mathematical modelling, operations research, mathematics, applied statistics, and mathematics and economics. USM’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Statistics provides students with training that focuses on the application of statistics in areas such as management, medicine, finance and science. Its establishment as one of the oldest universities in Malaysia has been commended for student success in its mathematical science courses.
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Selangor
There are four math courses to choose from at UPM, which are under their Department of Mathematics and Statistics: mathematics, statistics, mathematics with education, and statistics with education. Their Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Mathematics with Education at UPM focuses on the disciplines of mathematics and education, which also provides students with professional training in teaching. As UPM was the first higher education institution in Asia to receive accreditation from the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC), their courses that combine mathematics questions and education are suited to students looking to pursue a career in teaching maths.
Would you like to know the other subjects you'll need to get onto a maths degree?
The best private university to study mathematics
What can I do with a math degree? Private universities in Malaysia are reputable for their academic excellence, diverse cultures and exciting campus life. Here is a list of top private universities to consider for a degree in mathematics:
University of Nottingham Malaysia, Selangor
The University of Nottingham was ranked amongst the Top 100 in 2020 for “Economics and Econometrics” and “Statistics and Operational Research”. You can choose to take either a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Mathematics and Data Science or a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Mathematics and Management at the University of Nottingham Malaysia. Their Mathematics and Data Science course focuses on the disciplines of mathematics and computer science, whereas their Mathematics and Management programme integrates math, probability and statistics with the theory and practice of business management and entrepreneurship.
Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, Putrajaya
The Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Actuarial Science offered by Heriot-Watt is recognised by the Society of Actuaries, which is the highest level of recognition in the country. Students will learn topics such as actuarial and financial mathematics, multivariable calculus and real analysis, and survival models in the course. For the university’s Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Statistical Data Science, students can look forward to modelling, analysing and interpreting real data that is needed in the economy, industry and research.
Sunway University, Selangor
Sunway University’s School of Mathematical Sciences offers two programmes in mathematics. Their Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Actuarial Studies focuses on applying statistical and mathematical techniques in the finances industry, and their professional examinations are centred on getting students qualified as an actuary. Meanwhile, their Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Industrial Statistics emphasis data analysis through mathematical & statistical techniques to enable students to perform descriptive analytics, predictive analytics, and prescriptive analytics.
You can also look here for a more in-depth look into studying maths at university.
Is public university better than private for a math degree?
Commonly, students would choose to become a math solver at a public university instead of a private one due to the difference in tuition fees. To illustrate, a Mathematics and Data Science bachelor’s degree from the University of Nottingham Malaysia costs Malaysian students a yearly fee of RM 38,200 per year, whereas it is RM 47,000 a year for international students. In contrast, an Applied Mathematics bachelor’s degree at Universiti Sains Malaysia costs local students only RM 1,320 per year, and RM 11,617 a year for international students.
Cost is definitely important to consider so that you can plan out your expenses when studying university math. Other factors you might want to think about are the availability of facilities, lecturer-to-student ratio, or even the medium of instruction. Some public universities carry out their lectures via bilingual instruction, that is in Malay and English, which may be more suited to local preference. However, there are usually more facilities available at public universities due to their large campus grounds, but the lecturer-to-student ratio is often smaller at private universities, which could impact student achievement. Perhaps you'd like a further guide to studying maths at university.
But do you know what doesn’t need comparing? An effective class in mathematics! Did you know that Superprof offers classes that prepare you for a math degree? Yes - just log into the Superprof website to look for a physics and maths tutor in your area, but you can even look for a math tutor outside of your area if you are comfortable with just learning online. You no longer need to rely on a website that answers math problems for you, a private tutor from Superprof will teach you the essential skills for succeeding in your math degree. Check out Superprof today so you can enter the top mathematics university in Malaysia!
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