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MA12031: Mathematical methods for the life sciences

[Page last updated: 09 August 2024]

Academic Year: 2024/25
Owning Department/School: Department of Mathematical Sciences
Credits: 5 [equivalent to 10 CATS credits]
Notional Study Hours: 100
Level: Certificate (FHEQ level 4)
Period:
Semester 1
Assessment Summary: EXOB 100%
Assessment Detail:
  • Open-book written examination (EXOB 100%)
Supplementary Assessment:
Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations)
Requisites:
Learning Outcomes: At the end of this unit, students should be able to:
  • Make effective use of a range of standard mathematical functions to describe physical processes from the life sciences;
  • Analyse first and second order dynamical systems describing physical processes using a range of techniques;
  • Use mathematical models in a range of life science contexts and identify model limitations.



Synopsis: This unit will develop your mathematical skills so that you can apply them to problems arising in the life sciences. You will learn how to analyse a range of simple model equations commonly used in the life sciences, making use of graphical techniques, calculus and rate equations to describe systems changing over time.

Content: Modelling with functions: polynomial, rational, exponential, log, trig, composite. General form, graph, derivatives, integrals, dimensional analysis. Mathematical tools: complex numbers, matrices, determinants. Feedback systems: first order rate equations, linear and nonlinear; phase-line diagrams, phase planes, solution trajectories, steady state analysis, Routh Hurwitz criteria, numerical simulations. Applications and limitations.

Course availability:

MA12031 is Optional on the following courses:

Department of Life Sciences

Notes:

  • This unit catalogue is applicable for the 2024/25 academic year only. Students continuing their studies into 2025/26 and beyond should not assume that this unit will be available in future years in the format displayed here for 2024/25.
  • Courses and units are subject to change in accordance with normal University procedures.
  • Availability of units will be subject to constraints such as staff availability, minimum and maximum group sizes, and timetabling factors as well as a student's ability to meet any pre-requisite rules.
  • Find out more about these and other important University terms and conditions here.