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MAT9004 · Mathematical foundations for data science and AI

Official Handbook

2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 9Faculty of Information Technology

Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTC

Overview

Mathematical topics fundamental to computing and statistics including trees and other graphs, counting in combinatorics, principles of elementary probability theory, linear algebra, and fundamental concepts of calculus in one and several variables.

Offerings

CampusTeaching periodMode
Monash OnlineTeaching period 1Monash Online (MO)
ClaytonSecond semesterFlexible (FLEXIBLE)
ClaytonFirst semesterFlexible (FLEXIBLE)
MalaysiaFirst semesterTeaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS)
MalaysiaSecond semesterTeaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS)
Monash OnlineTeaching period 4Monash Online (MO)

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

#AssessmentTypeWeightHurdle
1Continuous assessmentQuiz / Test40%
2Scheduled final assessment (3 hours and 10 minutes)Examination60%Threshold
3Assignment 1Written30%
4Assignment 2Written30%
5Mathematical challengeQuiz / Test40%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

prohibitions

  • MAT1830 — Discrete mathematics for computer science
  • MAT1841 — Continuous mathematics for computer science
  • ITI9004 — Mathematical foundations for data science and AI

Joined by AND.

Learning outcomes

  1. Use trees and graphs to solve problems in computer science;
  2. Apply counting principles in combinatorics;
  3. Describe the principles of elementary probability theory, evaluate conditional probabilities and use Bayes' Theorem;
  4. Demonstrate basic knowledge and skills of linear algebra, including the manipulation of matrices, solution of linear systems, and evaluate and apply determinants;
  5. Explain fundamental concepts in calculus including basic differentiation and integration, and composite, inverse and parametric functions;
  6. Perform key skills in the calculus of functions of several variables including the calculation of partial derivatives, find tangent planes and identify stationary points, root findings and convexity for optimisation.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled online and face to face learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated reading and preparation for scheduled activities. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning and online engagement.

ActivityDuration
Workshops12 hours
Applied sessions22 hours
Seminars36 hours

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