Mathematical Sciences

Majoring in the Mathematical Sciences is suited to students with an aptitude for mathematics who are interested in applying mathematics to problem-solving in the real world. Mathematical Sciences combines traditional mathematics subjects with courses such as statistics and computer science.

Overview


Bachelor of Science in the field of Mathematical Sciences

Study statistics and computations, and develop problem-solving skills.

The Mathematical Sciences curriculum will develop your problem-solving skills, combining statistical and computational aspects. These high-level skills can be applied in high-performance computing, robotics, operations research, and many other areas.

Theoretical and practical skills are necessary in Mathematical Sciences when pushing the boundaries of technological development.

Career Opportunities


  • Banking
  • Statistician
  • Data science
  • Finance
  • Technology

Curriculum


First year

Mathematics I (Major):

  • Algebra
  • Calculus

AND
Computational and Applied Mathematics I:

  • Mathematical Methods and Modelling
  • Mechanics
  • Scientific Computing

AND
Mathematical Statistics

AND
Additional courses yielding a minimum of 54 Level I credits

Second year

Mathematics II: 

  • Basic Analysis
  • Abstract Mathematics
  • Differential Equations
  • Multivariable Calculus
  • Linear Algebra
  • Advanced Analysis

AND

Computational and Applied Mathematics ll:

  • Mathematical Methods and Modelling
  • Mechanics
  • Scientific Computing

AND Mathematical Statistics

Third year

Mathematical Statistics III:

  • Multivariate Data Analytics
  • Risk Theory
  • Statistical Elements of Machine Learning
  • Stochastic Processes
  • Survival Analysis
  • Time Series

AND

Computational and Applied Mathematics III

OR

Mathematics III:

  • Group Theory
  • Real Analysis
  • Complex Analysis
  • Number Theory

OR

  • Topology
  • Coding and Cryptography

OR

  • Advanced Real Analysis
  • Rings and Fields

OR

  • Positive Linear Systems

Entry Requirements


APS 44+

English Home Language OR First Additional Language Level 7

Mathematics Level 7

Physical Science Level 7

Wait-listing

Applicants with 44+ points and English Level 6, Mathematics Level 7 and Physical Sciences Level 7 may be wait-listed, subject to place availability.

International Applicants

For specific international entry requirements, click here to view the full guidelines

National Benchmark Test

All applicants to the Faculty of Science are required to write the National Benchmark Test by 31 October 2026

There are two tests: The Academic and Quantitative Literacy Test and the Mathematics Test. Both tests must be written in one session. Your test results are used in addition to your Grade 12 results to identify students who may need additional support during the course of their studies.

You can register for the NBT before you submit your application to Wits. DO NOT wait for an official notification from Wits to register for and write the tests, as you may miss the end of September deadline. For test dates, registration dates and available venues, please refer to the NBT website www.nbt.ac.za

University Application Process


  • The Student Enrolment Centre at Wits handles all student applications.
  • Please click here for an overview of the application process. 
  • Check the admission requirements for your degree. Check if any additional selection requirements apply. 
  • Submit your application, required documentation and application fee before the closing date.
  • Once you have applied, an Admissions Consultant will be assigned to your application.
  • Applicants can monitor the progress of their application/s via the Self Service Portal.
  • Part-time students are not eligible for NSFAS funding, University Entrance Scholarships, or campus residence placement.
  • If you are an international applicant and/or hold a foreign qualification, please click here.

Compliance with the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place at the University. The University has a specific number of places for first year undergraduates, approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training. Final selection is made subject to the availability of places, academic results and other entry requirements where applicable.

University Fees and Funding


Click here to see the current average tuition fees for the first year of study. The Fees website also provides information about the payment of fees and closing dates for fees payments. Once you have applied you will be able to access the fees estimator on the student self-service portal. 

The Financial Aid and Scholarships Office provides information on student funding and scholarships. University-funded Scholarships include Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships, University Entrance Scholarships, Equality Scholarships, Sports Scholarships and National Olympiad winner awards. For information about NSFAS funding, please visit the NSFAS websiteExternal bursaries portal: The Bursaries South Africa website provides a comprehensive list of bursaries in South Africa.