Mathematics 1A unit (KMA152)

Hobart, Launceston, Online

Introduction

The applicability of calculus and linear algebra is so broad that fluency in it is essential for a successful career in a variety of areas including science and engineering. This unit is devoted to the conceptual and logical development of these two main areas of mathematics, gradually building the tools for solving innumerable problems of great practical importance. In calculus part of the unit, a brief look at the Real Number System and their properties will lead us to the study of Functions in general and the study of special functions such as trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions. The notion of limits will be utilized to define continuity and differentiability of functions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the material conceptually and graphically. This area will also help establish the technical skills necessary to solve problems arising in practical situations. One highlight of the unit will be the discussion of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, which unifies differential and integral calculus. An introduction to two and three dimensional vector spaces will be an essential part of the unit as the knowledge in that area is vital, particularly for studies in engineering and physics. This unit is a required unit in the Bachelor of Science mathematics major and Bachelor of Engineering students.

Summary

Unit name	Mathematics 1A
Unit code	KMA152
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Mathematics
Coordinator	Doctor Jason Cosgrove
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Introductory

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 1
Launceston	Semester 1
Online	Semester 1

Note

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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.

Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	22/2/2026	16/3/2026	19/4/2026	13/6/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Solve a range of real-world problems by using basic mathematical concepts and techniques
• Solve differential calculus problems using appropriate mathematical techniques
• Solve integral calculus problems using appropriate mathematical techniques
• Use vectors in two and three dimensions to determine dot and cross products and to describe straight lines and planes.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
010101	$592.00	$592.00	not applicable	$2,919.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

MTM415117 Mathematics Methods or higher) or (KMA003) or (KMA100)

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	All teaching will be coordinated from the Sandy bay campus. Hobart (On-Campus): 4x1-hr face-to-face lectorials and a 1x1-hr face-to-face tutorial per week. Launceston: 4x1-hr live stream of on-campus lectorials and 1x1-hr face-to-face tutorial per week. Off-Campus: 4x1-hr live stream of on-campus lectorials and 1x1-hr online tutorial per week. All lectorials and the online tutorial will be recorded and made available to both on/off campus students all semester.
Assessment	Mid-Semester Test (20%)|End of year Exam (40%)|Problem-solving assignments (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.