Mathematical Physics at University of Waterloo

Programme overview

Leads to the Bachelor of Mathematics or Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Physics. Discover the mathematical and theoretical underpinnings of the laws of nature. From the foundations of quantum theory and its applications in nanotechnology to atmospheric physics, fluid mechanics, and the structure of spacetime in cosmology, Mathematical Physics will give you the advanced mathematical problem-solving skills needed for a wide range of careers. You'll dig deep into classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and electromagnetism, with elective courses in everything from relativity and astrophysics to fluid mechanics and advanced/applied quantum mechanics. Available in the regular system of study or the co-op system.

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

What you will study

About half of the classes you’ll take will be Physics courses, with roughly the other half being Applied Mathematics and Math courses. With your remaining classes, you can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo. Sample upper-year courses include Continuum Mechanics, Partial Differential Equations 1, Introduction to General Relativity, Statistical Mechanics.

Career pathways

As a Mathematical Physics graduate, you'll have a powerful blend of advanced mathematics, theoretical modelling, and problem-solving skills, making you valuable in both scientific research and high-level industry roles.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Apply to Mathematics or Physical Sciences and choose Mathematical Physics as the major; the two entry programmes have different admission requirements.

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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