Program Overview

Combinatorics and Optimization Degree

The Combinatorics and Optimization degree at the University of Waterloo is designed to equip students with the skills to solve problems in computer science, business, communications, and more. This program focuses on two of math's most powerful techniques: combinatorics, which looks at permutations and combinations, and optimization, which explores ways to make any operation work more efficiently within given constraints.

Overview of the Program

In this program, students will learn concepts such as enumeration, combinatorial designs, graph theory, linear programming, nonlinear optimization, operations research, and combinatorial optimization, and how to apply them in real-world applications. The program also offers the opportunity to gain paid work experience through the co-op program.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Combinatorics and Optimization program can pursue careers in software development, data analysis, and more. They often work for entertainment companies, financial institutions, and software companies. Recent graduates have found employment as Junior Quantitative Analysts, Risk Analysts, Actuaries, Software Engineers, Statistical Analysts, and Platform Developers.

Course Structure

First-Year Courses

• MATH 135 – Algebra for Honours Mathematics
• MATH 137 – Calculus 1 for Honours Mathematics
• Choose one course from:
  • CS 115 – Introduction to Computer Science 1
  • CS 135 – Designing Functional Programs
• One communication skills course
• One elective

January to April

• MATH 136 – Linear Algebra 1 for Honours Mathematics
• MATH 138 – Calculus 2 for Honours Mathematics
• Choose one course from:
  • CS 116 – Introduction to Computer Science 2
  • CS 136 – Elementary Algorithm Design and Data Abstraction
• Two electives

Sample Upper-Year Courses

• CO 342 – Introduction to Graph Theory
• CO 430 – Algebraic Enumeration
• CO 452 – Integer Programming
• CO 487 – Applied Cryptography

Co-op Program

The co-op program allows students to explore potential careers, learn to interview for jobs, graduate with up to two years of valuable experience, and earn money. Sample co-op job titles include Business Technology Analyst, Data Analyst, Full Stack Developer, Quantitative Trading Associate, Software Developer, Software QA Specialist, and Web Interface Developer.

Admission Requirements

• Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including Advanced Functions, Calculus and Vectors, Any 4U English, and one other 4U course.
• Recommended course: Grade 11 U Introduction to Computer Science.
• Admission averages: Individual selection from the mid-80s.

Student Life

The University of Waterloo offers a range of activities and clubs for students to get involved in, including the Math Society (MathSoc), Hack the North, Women in Mathematics, and Women in Computer Science. The campus is packed with opportunities to get involved, no matter how unique the interests.

Faculty and Degree

• Faculty: Faculty of Mathematics
• Degree: Bachelor of Mathematics in Combinatorics and Optimization
• Available as a co-op program: Yes
• Available as a regular program: Yes
• Available as a minor: Yes

Research Opportunities

Students can add research to their résumé by working as an undergraduate research assistant with one of the award-winning professors. The program also offers the opportunity to customize the degree by including one of the minors available to all Waterloo students. Advisors can help students explore which minors or specializations may fit into their plans.