Differential equations provide one of the most powerful mathematical tools for understanding the natural world. Since rates of change are commonly expressed using derivatives, differential equations arise whenever some continuously varying quantities and their rates of change in space or time are known or postulated. Whether seeking to understand biological or physical processes, behaviours of solids or liquids, ecological or mechanical systems, differential equations provide essential insights. If only one independent variable is involved, which is often time, these equations are called ordinary differential equations.

This course introduces students to the world of ordinary differential equations. The main focus of the course will be to investigate analytical and numerical solution techniques, qualitative behaviour of the solutions and mathematical modelling to explore a wide breadth of application areas.