Key facts
UNE unit code: PMTH339
*You are viewing the 2025 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
![UNE student studies on a laptop on her lounge at home](https://d1dkx4rtpm18tu.cloudfront.net/file/1572608410/62891086779/width=-1/height=-1/format=-1/fit=scale/t=445517/e=never/k=556aef9a/fall-back_unit-image.jpg)
Differential equations are one of the most prevalent sets of methods for modelling real world phenomena across science and engineering, with applications in areas including biology, chemistry, physics, geoscience, sports science, economics, and finance.
Differential equation models range in complexity from simple, through to complex models for the motion of fluids, such as the violent storms in Jupiter's atmosphere and the coordinated motion of groups of animals.
As a natural extension of calculus, this unit offers you qualitative and quantitative methods for ordinary and partial differential equations. You will explore first order equations, second order linear equations, series solutions, boundary value problems and phase plane analysis.
Studying this unit, you will develop practical foundational knowledge of differential equations that is invaluable for further study in mathematics and the life and physical sciences.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
Teaching period | Mode/location |
---|---|
Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
It is best if students do PMTH333 before this unit.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
![profile photo of Wenjie Ni](https://www.une.edu.au/__data/assets/image/0005/258530/varieties/69x77.jpg)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- use a broad and coherent theoretical knowledge to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the theory of elementary, ordinary and partial differential equations and some of its applications;
- develop a deep level of theoretical knowledge about partial differential equations;
- apply well-developed knowledge and skills relating to applications of differential equations; and
- analyse and generate solutions to sometimes complex problems, with logical and coherent methodolgy in solving differential equations.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Assessment 1 | Yes | 4% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
Assessment 2 | Yes | 4% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
Assessment 3 | Yes | 4% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
Assessment 4 | Yes | 4% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
Assessment 5 | Yes | 4% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
Assessment 6 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
Assessment 7 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
Assessment 8 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
Assessment 9 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
Final Examination | Yes | 60% | All offerings |
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.
Elementary Differential Equations and Boundary Value Problems
ISBN: 9781119820512
Boyce, W.E., DiPrima R.C. and Meade D.B., Wiley 12th ed. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience SurveyFive Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024![Woman studying online at home](https://www.une.edu.au/__data/assets/image/0018/342720/studying-online-01.jpg)
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
Register your interest and we'll keep you updated
Why study with us?
![Graduate and mother Claire Haiek at work as a parenting producer at kidspot.com.au](https://d1dkx4rtpm18tu.cloudfront.net/file/1572608410/63307469788/width=-1/height=-1/format=-1/fit=scale/t=445464/e=never/k=97363331/Claire-Haiek-3.jpg)
I'm grateful to UNE for the opportunities studying has given me, but above all, for making me realise I could actually do it, and giving me a sense of accomplishment.
What happens next?
Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.
2025 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.