Mathematics teaches students to think critically and analytically and this is the foundation for advancement in all careers in a knowledge-based economy. Individuals who develop strong backgrounds in mathematics often have distinct advantages in other fields such as physics, computer science, law, economics and finance.

Our math programs are flexible, so students are allowed to select courses based on specialization and interest. Content ranges from trigonometric functions and calculus in the non-specialist programs to more advanced topics such as polynomial equations and fields, classical geometries, set theory, algebraic theory, differential topology, algebraic topology, representation theory, commutative algebra, algebraic curves, real analysis, complex analysis, differential geometry and ordinary differential equations.

• Department of Mathematics
• Calendar Listing

Admission Information

• Apply to the Physical & Mathematical Science admission category on the St. George campus
• Six Grade 12 U or M courses, including English and Calculus and Vectors are required
• Senior high school Physics is required for the Mathematics and Physics program and for the Mathematics and its Applications (Physical Science) program
• Senior high school Physics is recommended for Applied Mathematics
• Students outside of Ontario should have the equivalent senior high school credits
  

Honours Bachelor of Science Programs

• Mathematics (specialist, major and minor options)
• Applied Mathematics (specialist)
• Mathematics and its Applications (specialist)
• Mathematics and Physics (specialist)
• Mathematics and Philosophy (specialist)
• Mathematical Applications in Economics and Finance (specialist)
• Economics and Mathematics (see Economics)
• Statistics and Mathematics (see Statistics)

First-Year Courses

• MAT 133Y1 - Calculus and Linear Algebra for Commerce
• MAT 135H1 - Calculus I (A)
• MAT 136H1 - Calculus I (B)
  
• MAT 137Y1 - Calculus
• MAT 157Y1 - Analysis
• MAT 223H1 - Linear Algebra
• MAT 240H1 - Algebra I
• JMB 170Y1 - Biology, Models, and Mathematics

Advice for First Year

Students who are interested in pursuing advanced mathematical studies should enrol in MAT 157Y1 and MAT 240H1. MAT 157Y1 is a theoretical course, emphasizing proofs and techniques as well as geometric and physical understanding. It is required for the mathematics specialist option, Applied Mathematics, Mathematics and Physics, Mathematics and Philosophy, and Mathematics and Statistics. MAT 240H1 is the introductory specialist course in linear algebra.

Students should consider taking MAT 137Y1 if they have a serious interest in mathematics but wish to avoid the theoretical challenges of MAT 157Y1. MAT 137Y1 is required by many of the physical or information science programs.

For students interested in the life sciences or commerce, the required courses are MAT 133Y1, MAT 135H1 and MAT 136H1. MAT 135H1 & MAT 136H1 are required by many of the life sciences programs and MAT 133Y1 is designed for students interested primarily in commerce and economics. If a program requires mathematics courses beyond first year, students should not take MAT 133Y1.

Careers

An undergraduate degree in mathematics may prepare you for a career in education, industry and commerce, finance, consulting or the civil service. Increasingly, employers are appreciating that training in mathematics produces graduates who have strong analytical skills and a well-developed capacity for independent, high-level problem-solving.

Co-ops and Internships

Mathematics students are eligible for Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) co-op summer scholarships with industry, and for the U of T Professional Experience Year program (PEY). PEY is an internship program through which students can work for 12 to 16 months after either second or third year, and gain work experience relevant to their field of study.

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