Applied Mathematics - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Mathematics 3 Building

Mathematics 3 (M3) Building on Waterloo's Campus

Conduct mathematics-based research and generate new knowledge in a multidisciplinary environment with the PhD in Applied Mathematics program.

At North America’s only dedicated Faculty of Mathematics and the #1 school in Canada for mathematics and computer science, you’ll connect theoretical advances and innovative mathematics to develop novel solutions to the pressing problems facing today’s world.  

Through a combination of coursework and original research, you’ll learn cutting-edge applications of mathematical theory in a broad range of fundamental and applied sciences, with five areas of research to choose from including control theory and dynamical systems, fluid mechanics, mathematical medicine and biology, mathematical physics, and scientific computation. 

With the competitive edge provided by mentorship through the Faculty’s connections around the world, you’ll be prepared to pursue a career in academia, government or industry. 

 

Research areas and degree options:

  • Control and Dynamical Systems
  • Fluid Mechanics
  • Mathematical Medicine and Biology
  • Mathematical Physics
  • Scientific Computing

 

Program overview

Department/School: Applied Mathematics
Faculty: Faculty of Mathematics
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April), Spring (May - August)
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Doctoral, Research
Length of program: 48 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Thesis

Application Deadlines

  • January 15 (for admission in September)
  • June 1 (for admission in January of the following year)
  • October 1 (for admission in May of the following year)

Key contacts

Maliha Ahmed

I see all these great scholars around me, like my supervisor Sue Ann Campbell. And like Anita Layton, Ghazal Geshnizjani, my committee members, and so many others in the department. I see their passion for what they do and their dedication to helping us grad students succeed. It’s very heartening. It motivates me to reach that level where I can give back in the same way.

Maliha Ahmed, Applied Mathematics, PhD

Supervisors

Admission requirements

  • Minimum grade point average: 78% or its equivalent
  • It is absolutely essential that the application for admission into the program contain evidence of potential for performing original research. This should be provided by successful completion of a Master's thesis in a mathematics-related discipline.
  • In some circumstances a student enrolled in the MMath program (thesis) in Applied Mathematics may transfer to the PhD program without completing their MMath program

Degree requirements

Application materials

  • Resume
  • Supplementary information form (SIF)
    • The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
  • Transcript(s)
  • References
    • Three references, normally from academic sources
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5)

Tuition and fees