Mathematics is a broad subject that includes many topics. In the mathematics major, students complete core courses in calculus, discrete math, linear algebra, differential equations, and analysis.  In senior years, students may select from topics such as number theory, abstract algebra, functional analysis, topology, general relativity, quantum information theory, combinatorics, cryptography, and more. A strong background in mathematics can benefit students interested in higher-level studies in any area of science.

Mathematics and statistics at Memorial

We employ undergraduate students in the Math Help Centre and to mark course assignments. Some of our students qualify for summer research employment funded by the National Science and Engineering Research Council.

The mathematics major is available as both a bachelor of science (B.Sc.) and/or bachelor of arts (BA) degree. In addition to the major and honours options in mathematics, joint programs are offered in:

• mathematics/computer science (BA or B.Sc. major)
• mathematics/economics (BA or B.Sc. major)
• mathematics/physics (B.Sc. major and honours)
• mathematics/chemistry (B.Sc. major and honours)

Admission requirements

You may apply for admission into the Faculty of Science or the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences by indicating bachelor of science or bachelor of arts, respectively, as your program choice on the undergraduate application for admission.

Direct entry into the Faculty of Science or the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences from high school is subject to meeting the general admission requirements for Memorial University, including appropriate courses in mathematics and a laboratory science for bachelor of science. Applicants without a laboratory science subject should apply for bachelor of arts.

Admission to the major for B.Sc. students

You cannot choose mathematics as your major at the time of application. After completion of 15 credit hours of study, you may request permission to declare a major in mathematics from the Department of Mathematics & Statistics. 

B.Sc. students must complete the following core degree requirements:

• six credit hours in critical reading and writing (CRW) courses, including at least three credit hours in English
• six credit hours in mathematics
• six credit hours in courses from each of two sciences other than mathematics

It is recommended that you complete the core degree requirements in your first year of study.

Admission to the major for BA students

You cannot choose pure mathematics as your major at the time of application. After completion of 15 credit hours of study, you may request permission to declare a major in mathematics from the Department of Mathematics & Statistics.

Students are strongly recommended to complete the BA core degree requirements in the first year of study.

Your first year

Check out the typical courses that, as a mathematics student, you would take in your first year.

Career opportunities

A degree with a major in mathematics prepares students for a variety of careers including:

• actuary
• air traffic controller
• data analyst
• epidemiologist
• investment banker
• meteorologist
• personal finance adviser
• software specialist
• teacher

Note: some of these careers may call for supplementary education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential learning or professional courses and exams.