Abstract:

"Dean's scholars programs" and similar selective programs of various types have existed for some years now in Australian universities. This paper discusses a new degree program designed for exceptionally high-performing high school graduates entering a mathematics degree who self-select for research degree preparation and optional acceleration. The program involves students studying 3+1 years Bachelors and Honours degree with the option for acceleration to 3 years total, as well as the incorporation of specifically designed research preparation studies. Students are assigned academic mentors who develop the students' understanding of the research world as well as their own abilities to undertake introductory level research. The discussion includes an overview of the degree program, but more importantly reflects on the design considerations that shaped the structuring and implementation of the program and compares the program with previous attempts at such schemes.

Keywords:

research preparation, curriculum development, accelerated degree, undergraduate research, mathematics.