Study the very big to the very small. This math is universal.
Look for answers to the universe’s largest questions and launch a dynamic career.
Discover the mathematical and theoretical underpinnings of the laws of nature. From the foundations of quantum theory and its applications in nanotechnology to atmospheric physics, fluid mechanics, and the structure of spacetime in cosmology, Mathematical Physics will give you the advanced mathematical problem-solving skills needed for a wide range of careers.
You'll dig deep into classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and electromagnetism, with elective courses in everything from relativity and astrophysics to fluid mechanics and advanced/applied quantum mechanics.
You can study Mathematical Physics through the Faculty of Mathematics or the Faculty of Science. The programs are similar. It's helpful to look at the courses below for the differences. In Science, you'll learn as a physicist with a strong background in mathematics. In math, you'll take the perspective of a mathematician, applying your knowledge to physics.
Either way, your career possibilities are infinite (figuratively, of course.).
Faculty:
Faculty of Mathematics or Faculty of Science
Degree:
Bachelor of Mathematics or Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Physics
Available as a co-op program?
Yes
Available as a regular program?
Yes
Available as a minor?
No
Earn your degree from a top ranking university. Ranked #1 in Canada and #38 globally for physics and among the top five nationally and #47 globally for mathematics, a Mathematical Physics degree from Waterloo will set you apart.
Learn from top researchers. Catch a lecture at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, just south of campus, or spend a research term at Waterloo’s Institute for Quantum Computing.
Co-op = relevant paid work experience
In the world's leading co-op program, you'll 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
- Design engineer-quality assurance
- Project engineering support
- Performance engineering co-op student
- Science math peer tutor
- Undergraduate research assistant
- Application programmer
- Quality assurance analyst
Co-op work-study sequence
Starting in second year, you'll normally alternate between school and work every four months, integrating your classroom learning with real-world experience. You can return to the same employer for a couple of work terms to gain greater knowledge and responsibility or work for different employers to get a broad range of experience.
Your first work term will be after first year if you choose to study through the Faculty of Mathematics (May to August 2027).
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Co-op |
| Second | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Third | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fourth | Study | Co-op | Co-op |
| Fifth | Study | Study | - |
Helping you succeed – with a 90% employment rate
Waterloo is known for a rigorous and high-quality education – which helps Waterloo Math students be highly successful.
- Graduation rate of 86% compared to 79% for similar programs across Ontario.
- Over 90% are employed within six months of graduation!
- Waterloo students are 4X more likely to do an internship, co-op, field experience, or clinical placement in their first year than first-year students at other Ontario universities.
(Sources: Key performance indicators - University of Waterloo 2024, National Survey of Student Engagement 2023)
MathSoc
Math Society (MathSoc) is run by students for students and provides a wide range of clubs, services, and social and academic events to make your experience as a Waterloo math student the best it can be.
Campus-wide activities
There are tons of opportunities to get involved within the Faculty of Mathematics as well as campus-wide clubs, sports and recreation, and an incredible range of events!
Women in Mathematics
The Women in Mathematics (WiM) strives for all genders to be well-represented in mathematics and welcomes people with under-represented gender identities.
Women in Computer Science
Women in Computer Science (WiCS) offers events such as the Big CSters mentoring program, workshops, a speaker series, and panels about diversity in computer science and STEM.
Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (WiSTEM)
WiSTEM is a student-run club that welcomes all students (regardless of gender) to promote equality in STEM through workshops, discussions, homework help, and guest speakers.
Hack the North
As Waterloo Computer Science student, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in competitions such as Hack the North. This hack-a-thon is the largest in Canada and hosted annually at Waterloo.
Admission requirements
Apply to Mathematics or Physical Sciences and choose Mathematical Physics as your major. For Mathematical Physics majors in the Faculty of Mathematics, there are supplementary information forms, including the Admission Information Form, which are required for admission. We'll email you detailed instructions once we receive your application.
Get information about programs, applying, and more!
Connect with us
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Please contact our Faculty of Mathematics recruitment team or the Science recruitment coordinator who can answer any questions you have.
From the Missing Manual
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