Pure Mathematics at University of Waterloo

Programme overview

Leads to the Bachelor of Mathematics in Pure Mathematics. Study the power, elegance, “how,” and “why” of math. In this rigorous program, you'll cover the spectrum of mathematics — from classical to modern — including geometry, number theory, and logic. Because Pure Mathematics classes are among the smallest and most cohesive in the Faculty of Mathematics, you’ll get to know both your classmates and your profs. 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

The majority of your required courses will be pure mathematics 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 Fields and Galois Theory, Differential Geometry, Analytic Number Theory, Measure Theory.

Career pathways

Waterloo Pure Mathematics graduates typically pursue careers in information technology, data analysis, quantitative analysis, and more. They often work for financial institutions, consulting firms, investment firms, and technology companies.

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 Pure Mathematics as your major at the end of first year.

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

Explore more study programmes

STEM