Key facts
UNE unit code: AMTH250
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information

The technology-driven worlds of science and engineering are increasingly integrated with computer science and its applications. Having high-level quantitative skills and the ability to keep pace with new developments in programming can help you to stand out in your career.
This unit introduces you to fundamental programming concepts, including conditional branching, looping and recursion, and you will learn to program in a high-level programming language.
Studying the algorithms used for common tasks in numerical analysis, you will explore solving linear equations, interpolation, root finding, curve fitting, numerical integration, random numbers and Monte Carlo methods, and numerical solutions to ordinary differential equations.
Throughout the unit, hands-on quantitative problems relevant to the sciences and engineering will allow you to hone your problem-solving skills.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Access to Matlab is required
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- develop logical and well structured computer programs in a high-level programming language;
- solve scientific and engineering problems by designing and implementing algorithms in a high-level programming language;
- analyse and debug computer programs to describe their purpose and identify logic and syntactical errors whenever they are present;
- apply the tools and commands available in UNIX-type operating systems for tasks relating to basic administration and data processing;
- demonstrate the ability to apply the concepts taught to a range of topics in computational mathematics; and
- demonstrate a knowledge of the basic principles of computational error and limits of accuracy.
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
MATLAB: A Practical Introduction to Programming and Problem Solving
ISBN: 9780323917506
Attaway, S., Butterworth-Heinemann 6th ed. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Numerical Computing with MATLAB
ISBN: 9780898716603
Moler, C.B., SIAM 2nd ed. 2010
Text refers to: All offerings
Advanced Engineering Mathematics: International Student Edition
ISBN: 9780470646137
Kreyszig, E., Wiley 10th ed. 2011
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?

UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.