The Waterloo advantage

A researcher works on a 3D structure

10 reasons to choose Waterloo

1. Your program is here!

You’ll find master and or doctoral programs in a wide range of fields. Waterloo’s Faculty of Mathematics is home to the Departments of Applied Mathematics, Combinatorics & Optimization, Computational MathematicsData SciencePure Mathematics, Statistics & Actuarial Science, and the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science.

2. It’s all about research.

Work with the best – over 1100 graduate students and 288 professors. 19 of our professors are recognized with research chairs in the mathematical and computing sciences. NSERC funding awarded to Waterloo Mathematics faculty researchers is significantly above the national average. Learn more by checking out research information for graduate students.

3. Distinguished faculty members.

See research chairs and awards for more information.

4. Funding.

Generous funding is available for Waterloo students and the cost of living in Waterloo is considerably lower than in larger cities.

5. Interdisciplinary research is key.

An interdisciplinary approach to research is facilitated by a wide variety of research centres and institutes on campus and connections around the world.

6. The quality of life in Waterloo.

Located one hour’s drive west of Toronto, Waterloo Region is home to approximately 500,000 people and growing. It is home to two universities, the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, and many in-town cultural activities. Waterloo is a great cultural mix – bordering farm country and in Canada’s Technology Triangle with festivals, activities and more for you and your family. 

7. Industry connections.

Strong connections to industry bring exciting applied research opportunities for faculty and graduate students.

8. You keep what you develop.

Unlike at many universities, Waterloo researchers (including graduate students) own the rights to their intellectual property. The Waterloo Commercialization Office (WatCo) facilitates the commercial application of campus research for interested faculty and graduate students.

9. Waterloo is family-friendly.

On-campus housing is available for single graduate students as well as those with live-in dependants. Birth and parental leave bursaries and on-campus childcare help students find work-life balance.

10. A strong Graduate Student Association (GSA).

The Waterloo GSA provides services for the campus graduate student community including organizing social events, health care, legal and tax aid. The Graduate House is the oldest building on campus and serves as a restaurant/bar for graduate students.