Program Overview

Pure Mathematics Degree

The Pure Mathematics degree at the University of Waterloo is a rigorous program that covers the spectrum of mathematics, from classical to modern, including geometry, number theory, and logic. This program provides students with problem-solving skills that can be applied in industry, business, government, or graduate school.

Overview

In this program, students will study the power, elegance, and underlying principles of mathematics. The Pure Mathematics classes are among the smallest and most cohesive in the Faculty of Mathematics, allowing students to get to know both their classmates and professors. The program also offers the opportunity to gain paid work experience through co-op.

What Courses Will You Take in Pure Mathematics?

The first-year courses include a mix of foundational courses in Mathematics, Computer Science, and communications. In upper years, most of the courses will be in Pure Mathematics, with additional math courses.

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

After First Year

The majority of the required courses will be pure mathematics courses, with additional courses in mathematics. With the remaining classes, students can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo.

Sample Upper-Year Courses

• PMATH 348 – Fields and Galois Theory
• PMATH 365 – Differential Geometry
• PMATH 440 – Analytic Number Theory
• PMATH 450 – Measure Theory

Customize Your Degree

Students can add additional areas of expertise to their 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.

Co-op

The co-op program provides students with relevant paid work experience. In the world's leading co-op program, students will explore potential careers, learn to interview for jobs, graduate with up to two years of valuable experience, and make money.

Sample Co-op Job Titles

• Business analyst assistant
• Data quality engineering
• Instructional support assistant
• Policy and research assistant
• QA automation developer
• Research assistant
• Security distributed system engineer

Co-op Work-Study Sequence

Starting in the second year, students will normally alternate between school and work every four months, integrating their classroom learning with real-world experience.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Pure Mathematics?

Waterloo Pure Mathematics graduates typically pursue careers in information technology, data analysis, quantitative analysis, and more. They often work for financial institutions, consulting firms, investment firms, and technology companies.

Recent Graduates

• Quantitative Analyst - Millennium Advisors
• Data Scientist - Robinhood Financial
• Executive Director - Beijing Leyard Investment
• Developer - geoLOGIC Systems
• Threat Intelligence Analyst - Ultimate Software
• Software Engineer - Google
• Data Scientist - Chango

Admission Requirements

Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including:

• Advanced Functions
• Calculus and Vectors
• Any 4U English
• One other 4U course

Recommended course: Grade 11 U Introduction to Computer Science

Admission averages: Individual selection from the mid-80s

How to Apply

Apply to Mathematics and choose Pure Mathematics as your major at the end of the first year. There are supplementary information forms, including the Admission Information Form, which are required for admission.

Related Programs

• Mathematical Studies
• Applied Mathematics

Faculty and Degree

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

Student Life

The Math Society (MathSoc) is run by students for students and provides a wide range of clubs, services, and social and academic events to make the experience as a Waterloo math student the best it can be. The Women in Mathematics (WiM) community encourages and advocates for women of all ages who are interested in studying math and pursuing a career in a related area. The Women in Computer Science (WiCS) promotes gender equity for students interested in studying computer science.