Mathematical Biosciences Hub

For office hours inquiries, please drop by between 11:00 and 12:00 on Tuesdays or Fridays (Room 1008D, Mathematics Building), except during holidays or when on leave. If the information below does not address your question, you can also send an email to chui ‘at’ sun ‘dot’ ac ‘dot’ za

Biomathematics at Stellenbosch University (Faculty of Science)

Below is an overview and Q&A about the biomathematics programmes offered in the Faculty of Science at Stellenbosch University. For full details, please consult the Yearbook, Part 5: Academic Programmes and Faculty Information.

What is Biomathematics?

Biomathematics is an interdisciplinary field that applies mathematical methods—ranging from analytical to computational techniques—to model, understand and predict biological phenomena. These include the structure, function, growth, death, origin, evolution, and environmental interactions of living systems across all levels, from molecules to ecosystems. Biomathematics also informs biological interventions, such as treatment, conservation, and management strategies.

What are the job prospects for graduates?

As mathematics and biology are both foundational to science, biomathematics cuts across many research and industrial sectors. Graduates are highly sought after in both academic and applied research environments (public and private). Technological advances have enabled more detailed capture and description of biological processes, increasing the need for theoretical and quantitative tools to analyse and predict biological systems and guide effective interventions. Graduates with biomathematics training are well equipped with analytical and computational skills that go beyond traditional biology training. In addition to universities and research institutes, these skills are in high demand in biotechnology and bioengineering R&D companies, public health sectors, and conservation or environmental agencies. Many graduates have also entered fields such as data analytics and finance, including positions in banks. Some have founded their own biotech or R&D consulting companies.

Interdisciplinary BSc Programme: Focus Area in Biomathematics (7.5.2)

This 3-year undergraduate programme, introduced in 2023, comprises a mix of compulsory and elective modules each year. Core subjects include mathematics, applied mathematics, computer science, biology, and chemistry. Elective options include genetics, physics, biochemistry, biodiversity, and ecology. Credit load: 1st Year: 124–140 credits; 2nd and 3rd Years: 128 credits each. Completion of this programme qualifies students for the Honours programme in biomathematics. Graduates may also apply for other related Honours programmes, though some may require prerequisite modules—please consult the relevant programme coordinators for guidance.

Subject 66176 Biomathematics 374 (16 credits), Project on Biological Modelling (1P): Research project on a topic in biomathematics designed to provide students with experience in applying mathematical and statistical models. The schedule of the weekly practical can be individually determined by the student in consultation with the project leader.

BScHons in Mathematics: Focus in Biomathematics (6.6.1.1; Code: 21539)

Admission requires: An interdisciplinary BSc degree in biomathematics; An average mark of over 60% for third-year modules. Graduates with other interdisciplinary BSc degrees are also eligible to apply. Holders of traditional BSc degrees should consult the programme coordinator (or myself directly); in principle, admission requires evidence of both mathematics/computational modules and modules in at least one biological science discipline. Application deadline: End of October (online application). Applicants are categorised internally into either pure mathematics or biomathematics tracks.

Note, scholarship applications follow a separate process. Prospective students should apply via the NRF or contact Postgraduate Office for details.

Programme Structure: 10 Modules (128 Credits Total)

First Semester (64 credits)

These modules are hosted by AIMS in Muizenberg and taught by international faculty (2025 includes lecturers from Oxford, Strathclyde, Warwick (UK); Clemson (USA); Vienna (Austria); and Western Australia). Module 748 is taught by SACEMA scientists.

Minor updates occur annually. For the latest module information, please contact the AIMS Academic Director (Prof Karin-Therese Howell). Students may apply for AIMS accommodation. Alternatively, students may arrange private accommodation or join a driving group. The first semester offers a broad range of topics and access to an international academic network, helping students broaden their research horizons in biomathematics.

Second Semester (64 credits)

Modules in the second semester are taught on the Stellenbosch campus. The 32-credit thesis module (747) is coordinated to form interdisciplinary supervision pairs between biologists at Stellenbosch University and biomathematicians (in some cases with myself directly). Each student undertakes a biologically meaningful project with substantial mathematical content. The module includes proposal writing, a final thesis, a project presentation, and an oral defence.

Advanced Degrees (MSc/PhD in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Physical and Mathematical Analysis, and Related Fields)

Graduates of the Honours programme may pursue further studies at Master’s or doctoral level in the Department of Mathematical Sciences (Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science), also other departments within the Faculty of Science and related faculties (e.g. Engineering). Our Biomathematics team in the Department of Mathematical Sciences is part of the South African Research Chair (SARChI) programme in Mathematical and Theoretical Physical Biosciences, and we are actively recruiting postgraduate students. If you are interested, please feel free to contact me for more information.