mms student's handbook - universiti tunku abdul … student's handbook.pdf ·...

UNIVERSITI TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND SCIENCE

MASTER OF MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES

STUDENT HANDBOOK

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Table of Content

Table of Content ............................................................................................................................. 2

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 5

Programme Aim .............................................................................................................................. 5

Programme Objectives .................................................................................................................... 5

Learning Outcome .......................................................................................................................... 5

Modules........................................................................................................................................... 6

Core Modules .............................................................................................................................. 6

Electives (2 from the following modules) .................................................................................. 6

Module Descriptions ................................................................................................................... 7

MEME15203 Statistical Inference .............................................................................................. 7

MEME15303 Advanced Matrix Algebra .................................................................................... 7

MEME15803 Elementary Stochastic Modelling ........................................................................ 7

MEME15903 Design of Experiments and Quality Engineering ................................................ 7

MEME16003 Sampling Techniques ........................................................................................... 7

MEME16103 Multivariate Analysis ........................................................................................... 7

MEME16203 Linear Models ...................................................................................................... 7

MEMG10303 Research Methods in Mathematical Sciences ..................................................... 7

MEME15106 Project .................................................................................................................. 8

MEME16303 Advanced Probability Theory .............................................................................. 8

MEME17003 Applied Multivariate Analysis ............................................................................. 8

MEME17103 Mathematics for Financial Applications .............................................................. 8

MEME17203 Mathematics Models in Finance .......................................................................... 8

MEME17303 Applied Econometrics Analysis ........................................................................... 8

MEME17403 Financial Risk Models ......................................................................................... 8

MEME17503 Analytical Portfolio Management ........................................................................ 9

MEME17803 Stochastic Analysis for Finance and Actuarial Science ....................................... 9

MEME18003 Abstract Algebra .................................................................................................. 9

MEME18103 Combinatorial Group Theory ............................................................................... 9

MEME18203 Representative Theory ......................................................................................... 9

MEME18303 Number Theory .................................................................................................... 9

MEME18403 Commutative Algrebra....................................................................................... 10

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MEME18503 Advanced Graph Theory .................................................................................... 10

MEME18603 Chromaticity of Graphs...................................................................................... 10

MEME18703 Fundamental of Combinatorial Designs ............................................................ 10

MEME18803 Advanced Combinatorics ................................................................................... 10

MEME19203 Numerical Methods for Stochastic Models in Finance ...................................... 10

Assessment .................................................................................................................................... 12

Grading system ......................................................................................................................... 12

University Rules and Regulations ................................................................................................. 13

Eligibility of Entry into Examinations and Project or Dissertation ...................................... 13

Appeal for Re-grading of Examination Paper ...................................................................... 14

Candidature Termination ...................................................................................................... 15

Maximum Duration of Study for Master’s Degree Programme ........................................... 15

Appeal on Termination ......................................................................................................... 16

Helpful Guides .............................................................................................................................. 17

Postgraduate Handbook ............................................................................................................ 17

UTAR Student Academic Handbook........................................................................................ 18

Student Computing Guide......................................................................................................... 19

Web-Based Learning Environment (WBLE)............................................................................ 20

Library Services ........................................................................................................................ 20

Remote Access .......................................................................................................................... 22

Guide to citing, referencing and academic writing ................................................................... 22

Persons to contact ......................................................................................................................... 23

Head of Programme: Dr. Chua Kuan Chin ............................................................................... 23

Deputy Dean (R&D and Postgraduate Programme): Dr. Goi Bok Min ................................... 23

Dean: Prof. Yow Ho Kwang ................................................................................................. 23

Officer (IPSR): Puan Marianne Binti Masli ............................................................................. 23

Senior Manager (IPSR): Mr. Loh Yeong Ying ..................................................................... 23

Director (IPSR): Professor Dr. Faidz bin Abdul Rahman .................................................... 23

Appendix I .................................................................................................................................... 24

Rule XV Master of Mathematical Sciences .................................................................................. 24

Part I – General ..................................................................................................................... 24

Part II - Programme Structure ............................................................................................... 24

Part III – Admission .............................................................................................................. 25

Part IV – Examination .......................................................................................................... 26

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Part V – Probation and Termination of Candidature ............................................................ 28

Part VII – Award of Degree .................................................................................................. 28

Appendix II Timeline of Events for Typical Trimester ................................................................ 29

Appendix III Procedures for Final Projects .................................................................................. 30

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Introduction The Master of Mathematical Sciences (MMS) coursework-based programme of study has a

major coursework component and a research component, usually termed research project.

Satisfactory completion of both components is required for the award of the degree. The

coursework-based programme provides an understanding of how software and hardware can

be combined to overcome an astonishing range of challenges. In addition to the coursework,

candidates are required to complete a research project under the guidance of an academic

supervisor. There will be a specified amount of contact time which will take the form of

seminars, tutorials and lectures. Assessment for most subjects includes individual and group

assignment work, case-studies and examinations. Candidates may be required to present

seminars and write reports on their research or project.

Programme Aim

The Master of Mathematical Sciences programme aims to prepare candidates for careers at the

forefront of teaching, research and development in Mathematical Sciences, or for careers in

other professions in which they can apply their research training and knowledge. The

programme seeks to cultivate curiosity, powers of observation, depth of critical thinking and

intellectual development that mathematicians exploit to make new discoveries as well as

enhance their creativity and problem solving skills. UTAR accomplishes these goals through the

strengths of its academic staff, its emphasis in research endeavours, suitable infrastructure and

facilities, and industry input into the content of its programme. The programme has a range of

possible research areas for candidates to pursue.

Programme Objectives

It is intended to enable students to:

• Develop their knowledge and skills in one or more areas of mathematical sciences by

attending advanced programme of study.

• Identify and explain cases in which major results of one branch of mathematics rely

nontrivially on results from another branch.

• Appreciate the aesthetic aspects of mathematical structures and theories.

• Use mathematics at a high level in order to analyse and solve problems using the

abstract mathematical theory.

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Learning Outcome

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Use statistical software to solve problems in statistics or finance;

• Identify the problems where the use of simulation or computing can help to provide

partial solutions to mathematically intractable problems so that useful information can

be extracted;

• Formulate different statistical or financial models to suit different settings and apply the

appropriate methodology for statistical inference;

• Formulate different stochastic models for different types of time-dependent data so as

to study the transient and steady-state behaviours and make predictions on the future

behaviour patterns of the models;

• Use the appropriate statistical methodology to analyse the different types of statistical

or financial data.

• Deduce simple statements or mathematical relations by analysing the assumptions

given.

Modules

Core Modules • MEME15203 Statistical Inference (3 credits)

• MEME15303 Advanced Matrix Algebra (3 credits)

• MEME15803 Elementary Stochastic Modelling (3 credits)

• MEME15903 Design of Experiments and Quality Engineering (3 credits)

• MEME16003 Sampling Techniques (3 credits)

• MEME16103 Multivariate Analysis (3 credits)

• MEME16203 Linear Models (3 credits)

• MEMG10303 Research Methods in Mathematical Sciences (3 credits)

• MEME15106 Project (6 credits)

Electives (2 from the following modules) • MEME16303 Advanced Probability Theory (3 credits)

• MEME17003 Applied Multivariate Analysis (3 credits)

• MEME17103 Mathematics for Financial Applications (3 credits)

• MEME17203 Mathematics Models in Finance (3 credits)

• MEME17303 Applied Econometrics Analysis (3 credits)

• MEME17403 Financial Risk Models (3 credits)

• MEME17503 Analytical Portfolio Management (3 credits)

• MEME17803 Stochastic Analysis for Finance and Actuarial Science (3 credits)

• MEME18003 Abstract Algebra (3 credits)

• MEME18103 Combinatorial Group Theory (3 credits)

• MEME18203 Representative Theory (3 credits)

• MEME18303 Number Theory (3 credits)

• MEME18403 Commutative Algrebra (3 credits)

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• MEME18503 Advanced Graph Theory (3 credits)

• MEME18603 Chromaticity of Graphs (3 credits)

• MEME18703 Fundamental of Combinatorial Designs (3 credits)

• MEME18803 Advanced Combinatorics (3 credits)

• MEME19203 Numerical Methods for Stochastic Models in Finance (3 credits)

(Not all the elective subjects to be offer in a particular semester)

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Module Descriptions

MEME15203 Statistical Inference Students will be exposed to different statistical techniques and methods of evaluating these techniques. Transformations and expectations, multiple random variables, properties of a random sample, principles

of data reduction, point estimation, hypothesis testing, interval estimation.

MEME15303 Advanced Matrix Algebra This unit is an advanced subject in matrix algebra. After revisiting the basic linear algebra, some major

topics Euclidean spaces, linear transformations and matrices, generalised inverses, matrix theory for

optimisation problems and applications of linear algebra in statistics and econometrics are studied.

MEME15803 Elementary Stochastic Modelling This unit provides an elementary introduction to stochastic modeling for the student, illustrating the

variety of applications possible in everyday life, including agricultural, industrial and economic

applications. Discrete-time Markov chains, Poisson processes, continuous-time Markov chains, queues

and queueing networks and renewal theory.

MEME15903 Design of Experiments and Quality Engineering This unit provides an understanding of the applications of design and analysis of experiments in quality

engineering. The 2 and 3 factorial designs. Confounding in the 2 and 3 factorial designs. Fractional

replication. Response surface methods. Tolerance design. Parameter design. Gauge repeatability and

reproducibility.

MEME16003 Sampling Techniques This unit introduces the techniques of statistical sampling in finite populations with applications in

sample surveys. Topics include simple random sampling for means and proportions, stratified sampling,

cluster sampling, ratio, regression and difference estimates, systematic random sampling, and two-stage

cluster sampling.

MEME16103 Multivariate Analysis Students will understand the statistical methods for describing and analyzing multivariate data. Aspects

of multivariate analysis, sample geometry and random sampling, multivariate normal distribution,

inferences about a mean vector, comparisons of several multivariate means, multivariate linear

regression models, principal components.

MEME16203 Linear Models This unit provides the theory of the standard linear model based approaches. The general procedures of

estimation and hypothesis testing for linear statistical models and their application that often arise in

research will be introduced. This unit will begin with the review of matrix algebra and incorporate the

use of statistical software. Then the basic background of General Linear Models will be introduced. In

order to deal with not full rank models, Generalized Inverse Matrices, Estimable and Testable Function

will be included in the unit. In addition, the Distribution of quadratic form will be introduced for

inference purposes. Finally, Unbalanced Experiments and Mixed Models will be introduced.

MEMG10303 Research Methods in Mathematical Sciences This course introduces students to the requirements of research, which is the basic necessity of any

piece of work or idea. Students are introduced to the demands and prospects of research, as well as

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discipline and rigour that are expected from researchers. The subject scope encompasses research

methods, research life cycle and processes, identifying a problem area for research, formulating a

research methodology, tools for experimentation and analysis of findings, conducting and managing

research and experiments, conducting test units and performing evaluation on the research output,

intellectual rights, and discussions on prevailing issues in research. Students are required to present

their own reading and a research development assignment toward the end of the course.

MEME15106 Project The student identifies a research topic or case study with the assistance of the supervisor, in order to

carry out or undertake a comprehensive study on the chosen topic or case study. Upon completing the

research or case study, a comprehensive final report of the project will be prepared with the

appropriate conclusions.

MEME16303 Advanced Probability Theory This unit introduces the basic concepts of probability theory from the measure-theoretic point of views.

This unit first introduces the concepts of σ-algebra, probability, Random variables, Independence,

Expectation and then studies the Convergence of Sequences of Random Variables, characteristic

functions, Classical Limit Theorems, conditional Expectation and Martingale.

MEME17003 Applied Multivariate Analysis This unit starts with an introduction to the basic ideas for studying the independence of sets of variates

(Canonical Correlation Analysis), as well as the structure of multivariate observations (Principal

Components Analysis and Factor Analysis). The study is extended to the classification of multivariate

observations (Discriminant Analysis, Mixture Distributions and Clustering Analysis), and finally some

graphical representations for multivariate data.

MEME17103 Mathematics for Financial Applications This unit covers the concepts of discounted cash flow allocation, capital budgeting and cost of capital.

Then it explains the analytical framework of financing mixing decision, dividend policy choice, strategy

for corporate control, merger and acquisition and corporate restructuring.

MEME17203 Mathematics Models in Finance This unit provides a mathematical framework to link up traditional corporate finance theory and

strategic objectives. The framework aligns the selection of corporate project criteria with the firm’s

management flexibility and value dynamic that enable quantitative evaluation of the impacts of

investment strategic settings on firm’s value.

MEME17303 Applied Econometrics Analysis This unit covers selected methods of estimation and testing of econometric models. An overview of the

econometric analysis and an intuitive feel for its concepts and techniques without the notation and

technical detail. It emphasis on the application of econometric modelling and related forecasting in

finance and economic problems. The course will require the knowledge of basic calculus, mathematical

statistics and matrix algebra.

MEME17403 Financial Risk Models The implementation of sound quantitative risk models is a vital concern for all financial institutions. This

unit provides a comprehensive treatment of the theoretical concepts and modelling techniques of

quantitative risk management and equips students with practical tools to solve real-world problems.

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MEME17503 Analytical Portfolio Management This unit provides an understanding of estimation of the return and determination of the risk of various

securities, and application of the basic principles of the portfolio management process to specific

scenarios. It entails an introduction to portfolio management, asset pricing models, multifactor models

of risk and return.

MEME17803 Stochastic Analysis for Finance and Actuarial Science This unit provides an introduction to the mathematical foundation for the Black-Scholes option pricing

models, it covers the mathematical entities for modeling information in finance, the associated

convergence and representation theorems for Wiener Process thence the Black-Scholes Equation and its

extension.

MEME18003 Abstract Algebra The unit begins with an introduction to group theory by discussing group structural theorems via

Cayley's Theorem. That leads to a description of the finite permutation groups. Then, we explore orbits,

normal subgroups, solvable groups and Sylow theorems to give a flavor of classification of groups up to

isomorphism. Finally on group theory we give various ways to construct new groups from old. The next

main topic is ring theory. An emphasis will be made to relate groups to rings. The increase in complexity

by having an additional operation will be highlighted by studying the different properties of rings, such

as primness, integral domain, field of fractions. An excursion to the polynomial rings will be taken to

examine how the properties of polynomials encountered at the undergraduate level can be extended to

more general situation beyond the real numbers. The final topic is module theory. The pinnacle

objective is to discuss the fundamental structural theorem for finitely generated modules over a

principal ideal domain. Applications to abelian groups will be discussed and links to classification of

vector spaces will be touched.

MEME18103 Combinatorial Group Theory Free groups and their subgroups, presentations of groups, the Reidemeister-Schreier Mathod, Nielsen-

Schreier Theorem, Tietze transformations, Nielsen transformation, free products, free products with

amalgamation, HNN extentions, the normal form theorems and the conjugacy theorems.

MEME18203 Representative Theory The course is devoted to representations of finite groups by matrices with entries in the field of complex

numbers. We begin with the basic definitions of representation theory. Then we show that every

representation can be written as a direct sum of irreducible ones. The next main topic is character

theory, an effective tool to study the representation of a finite group. Finally, we will introduce an

important concept in representation theory: the induced representations.

MEME18303 Number Theory We begin with some proofs of the irrationality of some classical real numbers, and compare different

ideas that lead to the conclusion. That paves a way to Diophantine approximation and continued

fractions. We use these new techniques to solve some special Diophantine equations in number theory

and illustrate some applications in cryptography. Then, we turn to problems in quadratic residues, in

which we adopt an algebraic viewpoint and explore a variety of methods involved. We finish by giving an

introduction to the study of uniform distribution of real sequences.

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MEME18403 Commutative Algebra The unit begins with a brief history of commutative algebra and the homological properties of

localizations which are used to study the primes of a ring and the support of a module. Then, what it

means to have a root of polynomials with coefficient over Noetherian rings is investigated as well as the

extensions of such rings by adjoining roots. Next, the Nullstellensatz and the exploration on flat families

which leads to the proof of Cohen Structure Theorem will be discussed. Finally, the concept of

dimension is illustrated algebraically and geometrically, followed by the discussion on Noether

normalizations and its geometrical consequences.

MEME18503 Advanced Graph Theory This unit firstly introduces graphs, Eulerian and Hamiltonian graphs. It followed by isomorphic graphs,

line graphs, planarity, ramsey Numbers and the probabilistic method in graph theory.

MEME18603 Chromaticity of Graphs This unit will firstly introduce the number of λ-colourings and its enumerations, and followed by

chromatic polynomials and chromatic equivalence of graphs, chromaticity of multi-partite graphs,

chromaticity of subdivisions of graphs and polynomials related to chromatic polynomials.

MEME18703 Fundamental of Combinatorial Designs This subject introduces some basic concepts in combinatorial designs. It covers the following topics:

Balanced Incomplete Block Designs, Pairwise Balanced Designs, Symmetric Balanced Block Designs,

difference sets using multiplier theorem and some constructions of Hadamard matrices.

MEME18803 Advanced Combinatorics Permutations and combinations, the multinomial theorem, partitions, Stirling numbers, generating

functions, exponential generating functions.

MEME19203 Numerical Methods for Stochastic Models in Finance This unit begins with a review of basic numerical methods and Monte Carlo simulation of random

variables, stochastic processes and stochastic models in finance. It also covers more advanced topics

such as numerical solution of deterministic and stochastic differential equations, valuation of complex

financial instruments and derivative securities.

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Assessment

Grading system For a taught unit, candidates shall normally be evaluated through two (2) evaluation components, as

follows:

i. Final examination which shall constitute 40% to 60% of the total marks; and

ii. Course work, which includes test, assignment, etc., which shall constitute 40% to 60% of

the total marks.

(UTAR Rule XVI Part II Section 4)

The schemes of marks and grades shall be as follows:

Grade Marks Grade Point

A+ 90-100 4.0000

A 80-89 4.0000

A- 75-79 3.6700

B+ 70-74 3.3300

B 65-69 3.0000

B- 60-64 2.6700

C+ 55-59 2.3300

C 50-54 2.0000

F 0-49 0.0000


The following codes shall be used to indicate a candidate’s status:

Status Description

S/U Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

AU Audit

NA Not Applicable

EX Exempted

BR Barred

RP Repeat

AB Absent

I Incomplete

P In progress

CT Credit Transfer

W Withdraw


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University Rules and Regulations

The students are advised to read the following relevant rules and regulations:

1. The University Rules and Regulation includes sections on UTAR'S Rules, Regulations and

Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) on Postgraduate Matters dealing with student

code of conduct, student discipline and appeals, examination regulations, library

regulations, procedure manual for unit registration for postgraduate students, etc.

2. The Rule XV Master of Mathematical Sciences includes sections on programme

structures, admission, examination, termination and award of degree of Master of

Mathematical Sciences programmes. It is attached as Appendix of this Student Guide.

3. Extraction of relevant rules:

Eligibility of Entry into Examinations and Project or Dissertation • No candidate shall be eligible to be admitted to the examination for any unit unless he:-

� is officially registered in that unit;

� has paid the tuition fees; and

� has attended at least 70% attendance at lectures and tutorials classes or the unit

(UTAR Rule XVI Part IV Section 12(1))

• Every candidate who is eligible to sit for an examination shall be given a registration confirmation

slip by DEAS as proof of eligibility to sit for the examination.


• No candidate with CGPA below 3.0000 shall be eligible to register for project or dissertation of the

degree unless recommended by the Board of Examiners.

(UTAR Rule XVI Part IV Section 12(3)) 11

• The Dean of the Faculty may grant exemption from pre-requisite units to candidates as deemed fit.


• A candidate who has been barred from taking any examination due to any reasons stated in Section

12 above to the President, whose decision on the matter shall be final.

(UTAR Rule XVI Part IV Section 13)

• A candidate who fails the examination for any core unit in the third attempt shall be terminated

from the programme.

(UTAR Rule XVI Part VI Section 15)

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• Where a candidate has repeated a unit, only the most recent grade shall be taken into account for

the computation of the Cumulative Grade Point Average.

(UTAR Rule XVI Part VI Section 16)

• The status of ‘Incomplete’ (I) may be recorded for an incomplete unit if the candidate had attended

at least 70% of the module.

(UTAR Rule XVI Part VII Section 17 (1))

• The candidate shall be allowed a maximum duration of one academic year to convert the status,

failing which the status for the unit shall be converted to ‘F’.


• The Senate upon the recommendation of the Board of Examiners shall decide on the exact period

the assessment should be completed.


• Where a candidate has been absent from the examination of any unit due to medical (upon

submission of a full medical report) or humanitarian reasons, the status of that candidate for that

particular unit shall be recorded as ‘Incomplete’ (I), and he shall be allowed to sit for the

replacement examination for that particular unit as the main examination.

(UTAR Rule XVI Part VIII Section 18)

• Where a candidate has been absent from the examination of any unit due to reasons that are not

acceptable to the Board of Examiners, the Board may decide to record the status of the candidate

for that particular unit as ‘Fail’ (F).

(UTAR Rule XVI Part VIII Section 19) 12

• Where a candidate has been absent from the examination of any unit without any reason, the Board

may decide to record the status of the candidate for that particular unit as ‘Absent (AB)’, which

carries 0 marks.


• Where a candidate is required or allowed to repeat a unit, he shall be required to redo the entire

course work and examinations for that particular unit.


Appeal for Re-grading of Examination Paper

• A candidate, who may have sufficient reason to believe that he has been unjustly graded or that an

error has occurred in the marking of his paper or in the computing of grades, may appeal to the

relevant Board of Examiners through DEAS.

(UTAR Rule XVI Part IX Section 22)

• The appeal shall be in writing and submitted to the respective Dean through the DEAS together with

payment of a prescribed appeal fee which fee shall only be refunded if the appeal is successful.

(UTAR Rule XVI Part IX Section 23(1))

• All appeal shall reach DEAS not later than two weeks from the date of announcement of the results

appealed against. Appeals submitted after the lapse of the said period shall not be entertained.

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(UTAR Rule XVI Part IX Section 23(2))

Candidature Termination

The candidature of a candidate for a Master’s degree by coursework shall be terminated if:

• the candidate does not comply with the requirement under the provisions of Section 9 above;

[Section 9 – Upon admission into an UTAR Master’s degree programme, a candidate shall not in pursue of

any other postgraduate degree programme in the same discipline in UTAR or any other institutions of

Higher Learning. Prior written approval must be obtained from the University if he intends to pursue other

academic programme in UTAR or any other Institutions of Higher Learning during the period of

candidature.]

1. the candidate, fails the examination for any core unit in the third attempt;

2. the Grade Point Average in two consecutive trimesters are less than 3.0000 and the Cumulative

Grade Point Average for the current trimester is less than 3.0000;

3. the candidate does not sit or absents himself, without reasons acceptable to the Board of

Examiners, from the final written examination and/or the candidate is found guilty of any

examination offence(s) as prescribed by the Laws of the University;

• the candidate does not complete and formally submit the Project within two (2) years after the

registration of the unit;

• the candidate conducts himself in a manner which contravenes any provisions of the Laws of the

University; or

• the candidate has not completed the programme within the maximum duration prescribed in

Section 26 below.

(UTAR Rule VII Section 24)

Maximum Duration of Study for Master’s Degree Programme

• A candidate shall complete the programme for the degree within a maximum period of four (4)

years for a full-time programme and six (6) years for a part-time programme from the date of initial

registration.

(UTAR Rule VII Section 26 (1))

• Notwithstanding the above, the Senate may, on the recommendation of the Board, extend the

period of candidature beyond the maximum period. Such extension, if granted, shall not exceed one

year in any one case and shall be subject to such conditions as may be determined by the Senate.


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Appeal on Termination

• A candidate, whose candidature has been terminated under Section 19, 24 or 25(11) above, may

appeal to the President of the University for reinstatement of his candidature. The decision of the

President shall be final.


• The appeal shall be in writing and submitted to the Director of Institute of Postgraduate Studies and

Research together with Payment of prescribed appeal fee within two (2) weeks from the date of

receipt of the termination notice or notification of result. Appeals submitted after the lapse of the

said period shall not be entertained.

(UTAR Rule VII Section 28)

The rules shall be subject to alteration without prior notice.

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Helpful Guides

Postgraduate Handbook Postgraduate Handbook is published by IPSR. The content include: academic calendar,

timetable, rules & regulations, standard operating procedures etc.

http://research.utar.edu.my/ipsrweb/Postgraduate%20Handbook/mainpage.html

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UTAR Student Academic Handbook The purpose of the UTAR student handbook is to provide students with the relevant

information concerning the institutional academic policies and regulations from the point of

admission to graduation. The information contained in the handbook serves to provide a

general reference point to UTAR students on academic-related matters, based on the relevant

sections from the Laws of the University and shall be applied as per Rule XXXII: Enforcement of

Rules & Regulations of the University.

http://web2.utar.edu.my/portal/AcaPolicyGuidelines/index.jsp

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Student Computing Guide The Student Computing Guide provides students with some general information about the

electronic resources that are available at UTAR.

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Web-Based Learning Environment (WBLE)

WBLE is a web-based tool that facilitate teaching and learning through the Internet. Through WBLE, you

can obtain course materials, assignment and work from instructor. Access to http://wble.utar.edu.my with

your username and password.

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Library Services

The details of UTAR library opening hours, facilities, loans information, library guide and rules and

regulations are etc are available at http://www.utar.edu.my/lib/file/main.htm

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Remote Access

To access to the online resources off-campus, please click https://libezp.utar.edu.my and login with your

Student ID number and password for student portal.

Guide to citing, referencing and academic writing

The Cite Your Sources – APA Style Guide (6th ed) and Citation in Text – APA Style Guide (6th ed) available at

http://www.utar.edu.my/lib/file/APA%20style%20guide.ppt are your essential guide in writing of

assignment.

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Persons to contact

Head of Programme: Dr. Chua Kuan Chin Phone No: (603) 4107 9802

Fax No: (603) 4107 9803

Email: [email protected]

Office: Faculty of Engineering & Science (FES), KL Campus

Deputy Dean (R&D and Postgraduate Programme): Dr. Goi Bok Min Phone No: (603) 4107 9802

Fax No: (603) 4107 9803



Dean: Prof. Yow Ho Kwang Phone No: (603) 4107 9802

Fax No: (603) 4107 9803

Email:[email protected]


Officer (IPSR): Puan Marianne Binti Masli Phone No: (603) 79582628 Extension: 7131

Fax No: (603) 79582628


Office: Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Research (IPSR), PJ Campus

Senior Manager (IPSR): Mr. Loh Yeong Ying Phone No: (603) 79582628 Extension: 8207

Fax No: (603) 79582628



Director (IPSR): Professor Dr. Faidz bin Abdul Rahman Phone No: (603) 4107 9802

Fax No: (603) 4107 9803



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Appendix I

Rule XV Master of Mathematical Sciences IN exercise of the powers conferred by Part IV of the Constitution of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, the

President, on the advice of the Senate, makes the following Rule:-

Part I – General

1. This Rule may be cited as the Master of Science (Project Management) Rule and shall come into

force as from the date of incorporation of the University.

2. In this Rule, unless otherwise stated:

a) ‘the University’ means Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR);

b) ‘the Senate’ means the Senate of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman;

c) ‘the Faculty’ means the Faculty at the University that conducts the degree programme;

d) ‘the Head of Department’ means the Head of a department of the Faculty;

e) words importing the masculine gender only shall include feminine fender and words importing

the singular number only shall include the plural number, and vice versa.

3. The following provisions shall apply to both the full-time and part-time candidates, unless the text

expressly states a contrary intention.

Part II - Programme Structure

4. The programme shall consist of not less than eighteen (18) credit hours of taught courses and not

more than fifty (50) credit hours of taught courses, in addition to a project / dissertation. The project

carries not less than six (6) credit hours, whereas dissertation shall be not less than twelve (12)

credit hours.

5. A candidate shall, upon admission, pursue in the University the prescribed courses and conduct

research for a project / dissertation under the direction of a Supervisor appointed by the Senate

upon the recommendation of the Faculty Board.

6. (1) The maximum period of candidature for a part-time candidate shall be six (6) years and the

maximum period of candidature for a full-time candidate shall be four (4) years. During this

period the candidate needs to complete the core and elective modules and the project /

dissertation and any other requirement, as mentioned in Section 4 above.

(2) Notwithstanding the above, the Senate, upon the recommendation of the Faculty, may allow an

additional period of one (1) year to the candidate to complete the programme.

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7. The programme may be conducted on a modular basis or on a term system. Candidates following

the modular programme or the term system are allowed to defer modules or modules offered in a

term subject to Section 6 above. Prior written approval must be obtained from the Head of

Department for such deferment.

8. A minimum of 70% attendance at classes for the courses is compulsory, unless the candidates has

obtained the prior written permission from the Dean of the Faculty or the Head of Department to

absent himself from any class, or unless the candidate is certified to be medically unfit. No candidate

shall be admitted to the examination prescribed for the course unless the Dean of the Faculty or the

Head of department certifies that the candidate has satisfactory attendance for the prescribed

course.

9. The Senate may, upon the recommendation of the Faculty Board, permit a full-time candidate to

convert the status of his candidatures to part-time. Consideration shall be given on a case to case

basis and the Senate may subject the candidate to other such conditions, as it may deem necessary.

Part III – Admission

10. A candidate for the Master of Mathematical Sciences programme shall possess any one of the

following minimum qualifications and demonstrate that he is qualified to undertake postgraduate

study:

a) A Bachelor’s degree with Honours in related areas from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman or any

other university recognized by the Senate; or

b) An equivalent qualification from an institution recognized as of comparable status by the Senate;

or

c) A degree or equivalent with at least two (2) years relevant working experience after obtaining

that degree.

‘two’ (2) years working experience’ means any working experience after obtaining the

qualification which period shall also include practical training and any industrial attachment.

11. (1) In addition to the academic requirement in Section 10 above, an applicant is also required to

possess any one of the following:

a) a minimum overall TOEFL score of 580 (paper-based) or 237 (computer-based) or 92

(internet-based);

b) a minimum overall band score of 6.5 in IELTS;

c) a minimum grade B in Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE);

d) a minimum score of 980 in English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT);

e) a minimum score of 500 in Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) (Critical Reading);

f) a minimum score of 22 in American College Testing Assessment (ACT);

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g) a credit in English 1119;

h) a minimum credit C4 in SPM English Language/“O” level English Language;

i) a minimum overall band score of 4 in MUET; or

j) any other qualification which is of the equivalent level as determined by the Senate of

the University.

(2) All applicants must meet the required English Language requirement before being admitted to

the approved programme of study.

(3) Upon the recommendation of the Faculty, the Senate may exempt a candidate from the English

requirement if the candidate had obtained the Bachelor’s degree using English as the sole

medium of instruction or as one of the media of instruction. The Faculty shall interview the

candidate and recommend to the Senate for exemption, where appropriate.

12. An applicant may be required to satisfy the Faculty through an interview and/or examination and/or

such other methods to determine his suitability to pursue the programme.

13. The acceptance of the candidate shall be solely at the discretion of the Senate, whose decision shall

be final.

14. The candidate shall enroll for the progarmme by completing the prescribed form and remitting the

specified fees by the date stipulated by the University.

Part IV – Examination

15. The examination for the degree of Master of Mathematical Sciences shall consist of the following:

a) an assessment of both the coursework and the written examination for each taught unit;

and

b) an assessment of the Project / Dissertation.

16. A candidate who fails the examination for any core unit in the third attempt shall be terminated

from the programme.

17. There shall be a Board of Examiners, appointed by the Senate, for the degree of Master of

Mathematical Sciences. The membership of the Board of Examiners shall comprise of the following;

a) Dean of Faculty or his representative as Chairman; and

b) All members of the Academic Staff who are involved in teaching the taught units or

supervising the Project.

18. The examiners for a Master’s Dissertation shall be appointed by the Senate and shall comprise:

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a) one (1) External Examiner; and

b) one (1) Internal Examiner.

In the event that there is no suitable internal examiner, the Senate may appoint another external

examiner for the thesis.

19. The Board of Examiners for a Master’s Dissertation shall comprise:

a) the Director of Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Research (IPSR) or in his absence, the

Director of IPSR’s representative, who shall be the Chairman;

b) the External Examiner (or his report in lieu of);

c) the Internal Examiner;

d) a representative of the Senate; and

e) a representative of the Faculty.

The Board of Examiners shall invite the Supervisor / Co-Supervisor and may invite the Dean of the

Faculty / Head of Department to attend the Board of Examiners meeting as invited members.

20. A candidates who is unable to sit for the final examination for one or more of the following reasons,

will be given an Incomplete (‘I’) status:

a) The candidate has a certified medical condition during the examination. The candidate shall

normally be required to submit the medical report to the Dean of Faculty within two (2)

days of the medical leave. The production of a Medical Certificate (MC) will NOT be

sufficient.

b) The candidate who is involved in employment activities such as business travel

requirements or important assignments by the employer shall normally be required submit

a letter from the CEO, Director or immediate supervisor to the Dean of Faculty preferably

not less than ten (10) days before the examination date.

21. A candidate shall be allowed up to two (2) weeks before the examination period to withdraw from

unit(s) that he is registered for. Withdrawal shall result in an automatic grade of (W) to be recorded.

This grade shall not be used in the computation of the Cumulative Grade Point Average for the

candidate concerned.

22. Subject always to the limitation imposed in Section 16, a candidate who fails a unit may be allowed

by the Senate upon the recommendation of the Board of Examiners to retake the unit.

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Part V – Probation and Termination of Candidature

23. A candidate for the Master’s degree by coursework shall be governed by the following provisions of

probation of study:

1) A candidate shall be put on probation if his GPA for a trimester/semester is less than 3.0000

except in a trimester/semester where all units taken do not contribute towards the computation

of GPA and CGPA. The academic probation period shall end when the candidate has attained a

GPA of 3.0000 and above in the following trimester/semester.

2) Where a candidate is placed on probation, the candidate shall be informed of his Probation

Status through the Notification of Results (NOR).

3) The decision on the academic standing of a candidate shall be made based on his results after an

Examination. The Senate upon recommendation of the Board of Examiners shall decide whether

or not the candidate be placed on probation.

24. The candidature of a candidate for a Master’s degree shall be terminated if:

a) the candidate has not completed the programme within the maximum period prescribed in

Section 6 above;

b) the candidate fails under the provisions of Section 16 above;

c) the candidate does not sit or absents himself, without reasons acceptable to the Board of

Examiners, from the final written examination and/or the candidate is found guilty of any

examination offence(s) as prescribed by the Laws of the University;

d) the candidate conducts himself in a manner which contravenes any provisions of the Laws

of the University;

e) the Grade Point Averages in two consecutive semesters/trimesters are less than 3.0000 and

the Cumulative Grade Point Average for the current semester/trimester is less than 3.0000;

or

f) the candidates does not complete and formally submit the Project within two (2) years after

the registration of the unit.

25. A candidate, whose candidature has been terminated under Section 24 above, may appeal to the

President of the University for reinstatement of his candidature. The decision of the President shall

be final.

Part VI – Award of Degree 26. A candidate shall be awarded the degree in Master of Science Mathematical Sciences if he has:

a) passed all the modules and the Project / Dissertation;

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b) attained a minimum CGPA of 3.0000 for the programme of taught structure; and

c) fulfilled all the requirements of the Laws of the University and paid all the outstanding fees

to the University.

Appendix II Timeline of Events for Typical Trimester

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Appendix III Procedures for Final Projects

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NOTATIONS:

AOS Appointment of Supervisor

BOE Board of Examination

FB Faculty Board

FGO Faculty General Officer

FRDPC Faculty Research and Development and Postgraduate Committee

HoD Head of Department

HoP Head of Programme

PC Project Completion

PR Progress Report

PSC Postgraduate Studies Committee

IMPORTANT:

• Please ensure that your supervisor approved your corrected draft before you send the Final Report for

permanent binding.

• The CD cover MUST include the following information:

Name of Student

ID of Student

Course

Name of Supervisor

Project Title

• The CD content MUST include the following:

MS Word report file

PDF report file

Simulation files (if applicable)

Diagrams, charts, graphs, image files etc. (if applicable)

• The CD is to be placed in a pocket glued to the inner side of the back cover of the report.

PREREQUISITES

• Achieved CGPA 3.000.

• Completed 6 credit hours of unit including MEMG10303 Research Methods in Mathematical Sciences.

FORMS FOR STRUCTRURE C PROGRAMME (PROJECT)

• Submission of Project Proposal

• Meeting Log

• Appointment of Supervisor Form (Masters; Structure C)

• Progress Report Form (Masters; Structure C)

• Notification of Intent to Submit Project

• Submission of Project for Examination

• Confirmation of Amended Project

• Final Deposition of Project

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