Prepare to study science subjects at degree level with this introduction to essential mathematical methods and skills.

Duration
2 weeksWeekly study
4 hours
Introduction to Mathematical Methods for University-Level Science
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Prepare for university by improving your mathematical skills
Mathematical methods are fundamental to the study of science subjects at university level. This course from the University of Nottingham will help you to strengthen your maths skills in preparation for your degree.
This course will help you develop the fundamental mathematical skills you need to study physics, engineering, computer science and other STEM subjects.
Unclear on how to do algebra, unsure of your mathematical problem-solving skills, or uncertain on differentiation and integration? This science skills course is designed for you.
Apply mathematical methods with confidence
This science skills course covers mathematical fundamentals, including how to solve algebra problems and tackle trigonometry, vectors and more.
By completing this course, you will develop confidence in the usage and evaluation of mathematical methods. You will be able to apply mathematical problem-solving techniques to the challenges you will face in university-level science. You will be able to reflect upon and identify common mathematical misconceptions.
What topics will you cover?
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Vectors
- Differentiation and integration
- Exponentials and logarithms
- Coordinate geometry
- Building confidence with using mathematical methods to solve problems
Learning on this course
On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.
What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...
- Improve confidence in your mathematical skills in preparation for university study
- Demonstrate your understanding of mathematical concepts including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, exponentials and logarithms, differentiation, integration and vectors
- Apply your prior mathematical learning in different contexts
Who is the course for?
This introduction to mathematical methods is aimed at those looking to strengthen fundamental mathematics skills before studying science subjects at university.
It will also help reintroduce non-traditional university students to formal learning.
Who will you learn with?
I am an Assistant Professor in the School of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Nottingham. I have a PhD in Statistics from the University of Nottingham.
Who developed the course?
The University of Nottingham
The University of Nottingham is a research-focused campus university, described as “the nearest thing Britain has to a truly global university” by The Times. As a member of both the Russell Group and Universitas 21 international network, our reach extends across our campuses in the UK, China and Malaysia, with a diverse student body drawn from over 150 countries.
Learning on FutureLearn
Your learning, your rules
- Courses are split into weeks, activities, and steps to help you keep track of your learning
- Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
- Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores
Join a global classroom
- Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
- Share ideas with your peers and course educators on every step of the course
- Join the conversation by reading, @ing, liking, bookmarking, and replying to comments from others
Map your progress
- As you work through the course, use notifications and the Progress page to guide your learning
- Whenever you’re ready, mark each step as complete, you’re in control
- Complete 90% of course steps and all of the assessments to earn your certificate
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