If your current knowledge does not match the assumed knowledge for a course that you want to take, then there are a variety of ways of bringing your knowledge up to the required level while at UNSW.

If you have not studied Mathematics at an equivalent level to the NSW HSC Mathematics level, then you should take the Mathematics Skills Program (MSP). The MSP is designed to bring your knowledge up to the level required to study MATH1011, MATH1031 or MATH1041. MSP is run during the evening during session and is taken in place of some other course. It is run external to the University and cannot be put on HECS.

If you have taken HSC Mathematics and need but have not taken Extension 1 level then you should take the Mathematics Bridging Course. The Mathematics Bridging Course assumes you already have a knowledge of the HSC Mathematics course and covers topics from HSC Mathematics Extension 1 which are required for entry to MATH1131. It is run through most of February in intensive mode.

An alternative route for students with HSC Mathematics but not Extension 1 level and who need to take MATH1131, is as follows. Take MATH1011 General Mathematics 1B first as this provides the necessary bridging material to take MATH1131 Mathematics 1A in the next session.

This option requires one more session of first year Mathematics than normal. If you take MATH1011 in Session 1, followed by MATH1131 in Session 2, then you are advised to take MATH1231 in the following Summer Session so that you can take second year Maths that has it as a prerequisite.

This option is more costly than the Mathematics Bridging Course. Contact the Mathematics First Year Office (phone: (02) 9385 7011, email: firstyear@maths.unsw.edu.au) for more information on this route. Note also that you cannot count both MATH1011 and MATH1131 towards your degree.

For some students it makes sense to defer studies at UNSW for a year and take TAFE HSC Mathematics Extension 1 to reach the required level of mathematics.

Discuss all your options with the Mathematics First Year Office (phone: (02) 9385 7011, email: firstyear@maths.unsw.edu.au).