Courses for your Biostatistics degree

First-year courses and beyond*

You may select advanced-stream courses for algebra, calculus, and computer science if you meet the requirements.

September to December

MATH 135 – Algebra for Honours Mathematics
MATH 137 – Calculus 1 for Honours Mathematics
Choose one of:
- CS 115 – Introduction to Computer Science 1
- CS 135 – Designing Functional Programs
Choose one of:
- HLTH 101 – Introduction to Health 1
- BIOL 239 – Genetics
- You can take this requirement later in your studies but it will help you determine if Biostatistics is the major for you.
One communication skills course

January to April

MATH 136 – Linear Algebra 1 for Honours Mathematics
MATH 138 – Calculus 2 for Honours Mathematics
Choose one of:
- CS 116 – Introduction to Computer Science 2
- CS 136 – Algorithm Design and Data Abstraction
Elective or STAT 230 – Probability
One elective

After first year

The majority of your required courses will be Statistics courses, with additional courses in Mathematics. With your remaining classes, you can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo.

View a list of courses required for your degree.

Sample upper-year courses

STAT 337 – Introduction to Biostatistics
STAT 437 – Statistical Methods for Life History Analysis
STAT 436 – Introduction to the Analysis of Spatial Data in Health Research
STAT 430 – Experimental Design

*This is a sample schedule. Courses are subject to change depending on availability each term.

Advisors are here to help

With so much flexibility, you might have a lot of questions. We're here to help! If you're applying for admission, contact our Faculty of Math recruitment co-ordinator.

Once you're a Waterloo student, you'll have access to academic advisors who can help you