Mathematical Optimization

Your optimal future starts here.

Focus on problems where resources need to be allocated effectively in complex, dynamic, and uncertain conditions.

You'll start with a solid foundation in math, including combinatorics, linear optimization, modeling, scheduling, forecasting, decision theory, and computer simulation. On top of that, you’ll add courses in economics, business, and management science.

After first year, you'll choose one of 2 specializations: Operations Research or Business.

When you graduate, you’ll have all kinds of career options. You might enhance scheduling for airline crews and sports games, improve production and distribution efficiency for manufacturing companies, increase service quality and efficiency in healthcare administration, or develop sophisticated tools for finance and investments.

About the Mathematical Optimization program

Mathematical Optimization admission requirements

• Apply to Mathematics and choose Mathematical Optimization as your major
• An Admission Information Form is required for admission.

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.

First-year Mathematical Optimization courses

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

Customize your Bachelor of Mathematics degree

In upper years, you'll select Business or Operations Research as your specialization. You can also add additional areas of interest and expertise by including a minor (or minors) as part of your degree.

Gain relevant work experience through co-op

By alternating school terms and paid co-op work terms throughout your degree, you can explore new career areas and types of employers as your career interests evolve.

What can you do with a degree in Mathematical Optimization?

Waterloo Mathematical Optimization graduates commonly pursue careers in software development, business analysis, and operations. They often work in financial institutions, consulting companies, universities, and more.

Recent graduates

• App Software Developer - Bank of Montreal
• Business Analyst - ThoughtWorks Canada
• Business Technology Analyst - Deloitte & Touche LLP
• Health Information Analyst - Ministry of Health Services, British Columbia
• IT Architect - Scotiabank
• Institutional Analyst - University of Waterloo
• Manager, Business Operations - Fortune Metals Inc.

Learn more about Mathematical Optimization

• Visit the Mathematical Optimization website
• Email our Mathematics recruitment co-ordinator, who can answer any questions about Mathematical Optimization