Objectives and Competencies

Objectives

Mathematics graduates will be able to formulate real-world problems in mathematical terms as well as those of other sciences and engineering, being able to analyse these formulations mathematically in order to solve them, using specialized software when required. The degree enables students to implement the techniques and tools required in the different Mathematics fields, to be able to work independently and in groups, to consolidate high-level reasoning skills, abstract thinking, constructive criticism and self-reflection. The degree also provides a solid grounding in other languages, English in this case, as it is the most used language in the Scientific and business worlds; the English level currently required by the University of Almeria is B1 of the Common European Framework.

The general objectives of this Bachelor's Degree, according to the White Paper on Mathematics Degrees, are as follows:

  • To know the nature, methods and aims of the different fields of Mathematics, as well as a general historical view of its development.
  • To recognise the presence of Mathematics in Nature, Science, Technology and Art. To recognise Mathematics as a core part of Education and Culture.
  • To implement analytical and abstract thinking skills, intuition and logical, rigorous thinking thanks to the study of Mathematics.
  • To acquire skills to apply theoretical and practical learning to approach and solve problems, both in academic and professional environments.
  • To prepare students for further specialized studies, whether in mathematics or in any other science requiring a good mathematical grounding.

The specific objectives of the Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics of the University of Almeria are:

  • To learn and understand how to apply mathematical methods and techniques.
  • To develop constructive-criticism and self-criticism skills.
  • To develop skills for logical, rigorous, analytical and abstract thinking as well as for decision-making processes.
  • To consolidate know-how in applying the knowledge and abilities acquired in this Bachelor's Degree to research, teaching or business.
  • To enable students to translate real-life problems -and other science and engineering issues- into a mathematical context, conduct a mathematical analysis of this formulation, and solve said problems. This process may require skills in using ICT and appropriate software, and graduates should be trained to use them proficiently.
  • To convey the importance of Mathematics in Science and Technology, as well as in daily life.
  • To foster interest in Sciences, specifically in Mathematics, and to convey the importance of this science to human evolution.
  • To suitably train students so that they can later enter the labour market in positions accordant with their training.
  • To provide the necessary knowledge for students to be admitted to Master's degrees or postgraduate programmes.

Competencies

Competencies are understood to be “the identifiable and assessable set of interconnected knowledge, attitudes, values, abilities and skills, which will allow the student to exercise his/her professional activity according to the requirements and standards used in the corresponding occupational area”.

All University of Almeria degrees explicitly include three types of competencies:

  • The generic competencies included in Royal Decree 1393/2007, of 29 October, which establishes the organization of official higher education.
  • The generic competencies of the University of Almeria (approved by the Governing Council on 17 July 2008). These are transversal competencies common to all the degrees.
  • The specific competencies of the degree. These competencies are detailed in the degree’s report and are related to its particular subjects. Some of these competencies may have been agreed at the Andalusian regional level, or for certain degrees, they may be regulated at the state level.

Basic, General and Cross-Curricular Competencies

The basic competencies for all bachelor’s degrees are defined in Royal Decree 1393/2007, of 29 October,  and are aimed at the student acquiring general training in one or more disciplines, oriented towards preparing them to carry out professional activities.

General competencies for all bachelor's degrees

To possess and understand knowledge
(CB1)

That students have demonstrated they possess and comprehend knowledge in an area of study that is part of the foundation of general secondary education, and is usually found at a level that, although supported in advanced textbooks, also includes some aspects that involve knowledge from the vanguard of the field of study.

Knowledge application (CB2)

That students should be able to apply their knowledge to their work or vocation in a professional way and possess the skills that are often demonstrated through developing and defending arguments and solving problems within their area of study.

Ability to make judgements (CB3)

That students have the ability to collect and interpret the relevant data (usually within their area of study) to make judgements, including reflections on relevant social, scientific or ethical issues.

Capacity to communicate and social aptitude (CB4)

That students are able to convey information, ideas, problems and solutions to both specialized and non-specialized audiences.

Learning skills (CB5)

That students have developed the learning skills necessary to undertake further studies with a high degree of autonomy.

The generic competencies of the University of Almeria, approved by the Governing Council on 17 July 2008, are as follows:

Transversal competencies for all bachelor's degrees

Basic knowledge of the profession (UAL1)

Knowledge, skills and attitudes that enable the understanding of new theories, interpretations, methods and techniques within the different disciplinary fields, conducive to the optimal fulfilment of professional requirements.

Ability to use ICT (UAL2) Using Information and Communications Techniques (ICTs) as a tool to express and communicate, to access information sources, as a means of filing data and documents, for presentation tasks, for learning, research and cooperative work.
Ability to solve problems (UAL3 The ability to identify, analyse, and define significant elements that constitute a problem in order to solve it rigorously.
Oral and written communication in one's own language (UAL4) To understand and express ideas, knowledge, problems and solutions clearly and opportunely to a wider, specialized or non-specialized audience (and feelings through words, adapting to the particular situation and audience to gain their understanding and endorsement).
The ability to be critical and self-critical (UAL5)

This is the mental aptitude to question things and be interested in the bases on which ideas, actions and judgements are founded, both one’s own and those of others.

Teamwork (UAL6) To integrate and collaborate actively with other people, areas and organizations to achieve common objectives, in both national and international contexts.
Knowledge of a second language (UAL7) To understand and be understood, both verbally and in writing, using a language other than one's own.
Ethical commitment (UAL8) The ability to think and act on principles of a universal nature that are based on the value of the individual and are directed toward them reaching their full potential.
Learning to work autonomously (UAL9) The ability to design, manage, and execute a task by oneself.
Social competence and global citizenship (UAL10) To respect fundamental rights and equality between men and women, human rights, the values of a peaceful and democratic culture, and environmental and cooperative development principles that promote ethical commitment in a global, intercultural, free and just society.

Specific competencies

The specific competencies provided by this degree are listed in the degree report.

Objectives document

Objectives document

Detail of the competencies specific to this degree.

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Information of interest

  • Guide