Two students describe the programme

Student Andreas Oppebøen: At first I was not sure whether I wanted to study mathematics, physics or engineering. I thought that an engineering programme might be too practical, and that the choice of subjects for the degree would be too limited. I wanted flexibility and freedom to choose the subjects that appealed to me. I have always thoroughly enjoyed mathematics, and so I started on a bachelor's programme in mathematics. And by studying mathematics, I would avoid wasting time if I wanted to switch to, say, a physics programme. After all, mathematics is the foundation of physics, and indispensable in most other sciences.

But when I started at NTNU I realized that switching programmes was not relevant for me. Mathematics is too exciting to give up as soon as you have learned the basics.

Still, I wanted some breadth in my education, so I am taking some IT and physics subjects as part of my degree. Even though the first semesters are pretty much fixed, things loosen up after a while and you get a lot of freedom to choose the courses you want.

My main plan is to take a master's degree in mathematics. If I want to carry on with theoretical mathematics after that ... time will tell. Otherwise, my dream is to get a job in which I can combine mathematics with IT.

Student Ellen Sofie Bjørkli: I am a 23-year-old from Gran doing my first year of mathematical subjects. Previously, I graduated in economics from Tromsø University College and Oslo University College. Have always enjoyed mathematics, so that's what I wanted to study after completing my bachelor's degree in economics. I chose BMAST, with Statistics and Stochastic Modelling as my sub-discipline, because I feel that this is a good combination with my economics education for finding a job in the future.

When I have finished my bachelor's degree I hope to get an exciting job, where I also have the chance to carry on with a master's degree after a couple of years of practical experience.

I am very happy here in Trondheim and at NTNU. The lecturers are excellent -- they're in touch with the students and they're good at inviting questions and discussion. Of course a maths programme demands some work, but after being a fairly laid-back student so far, I must say, here everything is set up so that you can stay on campus during the afternoon and evening to work on your subjects.

So I am looking forward to at least three years here in Trondheim, and hope to be wise one day!