MTH5115 Algebraic topology
Faculty of Science
MTH5115 Algebraic topology is a level 5, 6-credit-point, postgraduate unit from the Faculty of Science. It isn't offered in 2026. It has no prerequisites.
- Credit points
- 6
- Offered in 2026
- Not offered
- Assessment
- Exam 40%
- and 1 other task
This is the 2026 handbook entry. See the 2027 entry.
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Requisites
Before MTH5115
No prerequisites or corequisites besides the enrolment rules below.
After MTH5115
No unit lists MTH5115 as a prerequisite in the 2026 handbook.
Equivalent units
The same content under another code. Only one of them counts.
Overview
This unit develops the main tools from algebra that are used to study and distinguish spaces. These tools are used in a variety of fields, from mathematics to theoretical physics to computer science. Algebraic topology relates to concrete problems, and sophisticated tools will be presented to tackle such problems. The core topics covered in the unit include the fundamental group and covering spaces, and homology. Cohomology and/or homotopy theory will also be studied.
Offerings in 2026
The 2026 handbook lists no offerings for MTH5115.
Assessment
- Continuous assessmentDemonstration60%
- Final assessment - Exam (3 hours and 10 minutes)Examination40%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
Demonstrate profound understanding of the core concepts in algebraic topology.
- 2
Formulate complex mathematical arguments in algebraic topology.
- 3
Apply sophisticated tools of algebraic topology to tackle new problems.
- 4
Communicate difficult mathematical concepts and arguments with clarity.
- 5
Apply critical thinking to judge the validity of mathematical reasoning.
Workload and teaching
- Seminars36 hours
- Applied sessions12 hours
- 3 hours of seminars;
- 1 hour applied session and
- 8 hours of independent study per week
Contacts
- Unit Coordinators
- Professor Jessica Purcell
- Chief Examiners
- Professor Jessica Purcell
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for MTH5115?
MTH5115 has no prerequisites, but enrolment rules apply.
When is MTH5115 offered?
MTH5115 has no offerings listed in the 2026 handbook.
Does MTH5115 have an exam?
Yes. The exam is worth 40% of the final mark, alongside 1 other task.