Units / MTH4351
MTH4351 · Mathematical biology
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 4School of Mathematics
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit is an introduction to some of the most important mathematical concepts in theoretical biology. The coursework for this unit will be entirely mathematical and assumes no prior expertise in biology. The course also includes a significant project whereby you will be paired with students enrolled in M6030 (Master of Biotechnology) to investigate a real biological question in an interdisciplinary setting. The aim of the course is to introduce both mathematical methods and biological applications and to generate a realisation of the potential of mathematics in biological research. The lectures will be organised by application (population, chemical, physiological, etc) but will focus on mathematical analysis and the insights that they generate. Whilst 'mathematical biology' has the potential to cover a wide range of activities, we will focus on phenomenological models of continuous, discrete or stochastic natures as opposed to data-driven areas of mathematics such as computational mathematics, statistics, data science, machine learning, etc.
Areas of study: Master of Mathematics
Offerings
The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Continuous assessment | Demonstration | 50% | — |
| 2 | Final assessment - Exam (3 hours and 10 minutes) | Examination | 50% | — |
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.
Learning outcomes
- Apply and extend classical models in mathematical biology.
- Use sophisticated mathematical techniques in the analysis of mathematical models in biology.
- Construct mathematical models for biological systems.
- Apply critical thinking to address problems in an interdisciplinary group setting.
- Communicate effectively across interdisciplinary borders.
Workload
• Three hours of seminars; • One hour applied sessions and • Eight hours of independent study per week
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Applied sessions | 12 hours |
| Seminars | 36 hours |
Ask about MTH4351
Answered from the Handbook fields above — no AI, no guessing. Every answer links back to the source.
Community discussions about MTH4351
CommunityStudent experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.