Mathematical Optimization at University of Waterloo

Programme overview

Leads to the Bachelor of Mathematics in Mathematical Optimization. Optimization algorithms are quietly going to work all around you. From shipping schedules to food logistics and emergency room triage plans, optimization experts know how to use math to detect patterns, make the most of resources, and create the best possible outcomes in a wide variety of industries. Start with a solid math foundation including combinatorics, forecasting, and computer simulation. Available in the regular system of study or the co-op system.

Faculty: Faculty of Mathematics | Study mode: full-time | Location: Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

What you will study

Most of the required courses you’ll take will be combinatorics and optimization courses, with additional courses in mathematics. With your remaining classes, you can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo. Sample upper-year courses include Network Flow Theory, Portfolio Optimization Models, Introduction to Game Theory, Convex Optimization and Analysis.

Career pathways

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.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Ontario applicants: Six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including Advanced Functions; Calculus and Vectors; Any 4U English; One other 4U course; Admission average: Individual selection from the mid-80s; Recommended course; Grade 11 U Introduction to Computer Science; 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 to Mathematics and choose Mathematical Optimization as your major.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the courses you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

First-year students are admitted for the September (fall) term only. Terms: fall (September to December), winter (January to April), spring (May to August). Part-time, online, post-degree and non-degree studies can start in the winter, spring or fall term.

Applications for September 2027 entry close on 1 February 2027 for programs other than Engineering (documents due 15 February 2027) and on 15 January 2027 for Engineering programs other than Architecture (documents due 1 February 2027). International students have the same deadlines. Full-time applicants apply through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).

Part-time, online, post-degree and non-degree studies: winter 2027 applications close 30 October 2026 for degree and non-degree (13 November 2026 for post-degree); spring 2027 applications close 26 February 2027 for degree and non-degree (12 March 2027 for post-degree). Optometry closes 12 November 2026 and Pharmacy closes 6 January 2027.

Apply through the official page: https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/admissions/how-to-apply

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