Build models to save the world. No assembly required.
Use your understanding of mathematical concepts to solve complex problems in engineering, medicine, business, and science, from the behaviour of ocean waves to the structure of space-time.
In Applied Mathematics, you’ll deepen your knowledge of calculus and differential equations: the foundation for most mathematical models. You’ll have lots of opportunity to put those tools to work on real-life problems — in the classroom and, if you choose co-op, during your work terms.
Many of our Applied Mathematics graduates work in research, development, and consulting. Others pursue graduate studies in applied mathematics, computer science, engineering, or physics.
Either way, your Waterloo degree will open doors.
Program highlights
- Add research to your résumé. Spend a term working with a Waterloo professor as a research assistant — and perhaps get published in The Waterloo Mathematics Review, which showcases undergraduate research.
- Get international experience. Round out your résumé and broaden your cultural perspective with a term abroad. Earn credits at universities in 18 different countries, or spend a work term with a company overseas.
- Available as a regular or co-op program
- Earn a Bachelor of Mathematics degree in Applied Mathematics
- Offered by the Faculty of Mathematics
Combine your interests in mathematics and science by adding an option in Biology, Economics or Physics to your degree.
What will you learn?
First-year courses
You'll mostly take a mix of Mathematics and Computer Science courses to give you the foundations for your upper-year classes. After first year, the majority of your required courses will be Applied Mathematics courses, with foundational courses in Mathematics.
Learn more about courses you'll take for your Applied Mathematics degree.
Customize your Bachelor of Mathematics degree
You can add additional areas of expertise to your degree by including an option or one of the minors available to all Waterloo students.
Once you're a student, advisors can help you explore which minors or specializations may fit into your plans.
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Monthly topics include how to choose a program, what it's like to be a Waterloo student, the differences between high school and university, and more.
Questions? Ask a student!
Contact a Faculty of Mathematics student ambassador to learn about their experience in the program.
Ask them questions such as why they chose their program, what the classes are like, and how you can get involved on campus.
"Being in the Faculty of Mathematics has given me lots of flexibility to try new things and discover different majors. I was able to take courses in many different disciplines within math which helped me to decide what I want to do after I graduate."Cody, third-year Applied Mathematics studentAdmission 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 high 80s
How to apply?
Apply to Mathematics and choose Applied Mathematics as your major at the end of first year. Once you've applied, you'll need to complete the Admission Information Form as part of the application process.
We strongly encourage you to participate in the Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest and/or the Euclid Mathematics Contest to enhance your admissions status.
To be considered for entrance scholarships in the Faculty of Mathematics, you must write one or both of the contests. If you complete both contests, we'll use the results of the contest in which you performed best.
Connect with us
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Contact Laura Jane Watkins, our Mathematics recruitment coordinator, who can answer any questions you have.
