Really understand the numbers
In the only accounting program in Canada to lead to a math degree, you’ll gain all the fundamentals of an outstanding accounting education —plus you’ll take a deep dive into mathematics.
Accountants are increasingly dependent on computer technology, statistical procedures for auditing and forecasting, and mathematical techniques, such as operations research. You can combine an optional specialization in data analytics or finance with in-depth studies in accounting, economics, and business. It’s the perfect foundation for a career as a chartered accountant or a management accountant.
Put your knowledge to work during four co-op work terms, gaining valuable real-world experience that can be counted toward your CPA designation. You’ll graduate with a unique degree and ready for a high-impact career as a CPA.
Faculty:
Faculty of Mathematics
Degree:
Bachelor of Mathematics in Math/Chartered Professional Accountancy
Available as a co-op program?
Co-op only
Available as a regular program?
No
Available as a minor?
No
A direct route to your career. Once you graduate, spend just eight months completing our Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program and you’ll be ready to write the Common Final Examination.
Pro qualifications. Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy provides a direct route to becoming a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA).
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
- Student in Accounts
- Tax Co-op Associate
- Senior Student in Accounts
- Business 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 in the winter term of second year.
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Off |
| Second | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Third | Co-op | Study | Study |
| Fourth | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fifth | Study | - | - |
Career success: a 90% employment rate after graduation
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 a Waterloo student, you can participate in competitions such as Hack the North, Canada's largest hack-a-thon and hosted annually at Waterloo.
Admission requirements
Ontario students
Six Grade 12U and/or M courses including
- Advanced Functions
- Calculus and Vectors
- Any Grade 12U English
- One other 4U course
Admission averages: Individual selection from the mid-80s
Recommended courses
- Grade 11 U Introduction to Computer Science
- Grade 12 M Principles of Financial Accounting
Not studying in Ontario?
Search our admission requirements.
For all students
- The Admission Information Form is required for admission.
- Participation in the Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest and/or the Euclid Mathematics Contest is not required for admission, but writing one of these contests is required for some scholarships offered by the Faculty of Mathematics.
How to apply
Apply directly to this program on 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 who can answer any questions you have.
You can also check out the Faculty of Math on Instagram!