Students in physical and mathematical sciences investigate the natural laws and processes of non-living matter. From the high-tech world of quantum optics and biophysics to the intricate problems of black holes and chaotic dynamics, our programs will introduce you to the research and issues that impact the world around us.
Applying to Physical & Mathematical Sciences
OUAC Admission Code: TPG (Physical & Mathematical Sciences)
Supplementary Application Form Required: No
Admission Category Prerequisites: English and Calculus
Approximate Admission Range: Mid to high 80s
Admission Requirements by Curriculum:
- Ontario High School and Other Canadian Provinces
- US High School Admission Requirements
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Admission Requirements
- British Patterned Admission Requirements
- Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) Admission Requirements
- Other International School Admission Requirements
Since you are admitted to the general Physical & Mathematical Sciences admission category, during your first year you will not be enrolled in a specific program of study. This means that during your first year, you are able to explore a number of different areas of study. You apply to a program (e.g. major in astronomy and physics) at the end of your first year, and can combine programs outside of your own admission category, excluding programs in Rotman Commerce.
It is important to note that in addition to the courses required for admission into the Physical & Mathematical Sciences admission category listed above (English and mathematics/calculus), some programs of study may require you to take additional specific high school subjects in order to take specific courses in first year, or for entry into that program in second year.
For example, if you are interested in astronomy and physics, you will not only need English and mathematics/calculus (which are required for admission into Physical & Mathematical Sciences), but you will also need grade 12 physics or equivalent to be able to enrol in this program.
Step 1: Search for your desired program of study (e.g. major in astronomy and physics) in the table below
Step 2: Find the high school subject prerequisites for your desired program of study listed under Subject(s) Required in Addition to English
Step 3: These prerequisites subjects allow you to enroll in introductory first year courses needed for your program of study selection at the end of first year. You can find these courses listed under Program Area in the Academic Calendar
Program List
Whether you're a math whiz or a science enthusiast – or a little bit of both – discover the program of study that's right for you from the list below.
Legend: Bio: Biology; C: Calculus and Vectors; Ch: Chemistry; Ph: Physics
| Program | Subject(s) Required in Addition to English |
|---|---|
| Actuarial Science | C |
| Applied Mathematics | C (Rec. Ph) |
| Astronomy and Astrophysics | C (Rec. Ph) |
| Astronomy and Physics | C, Ph |
| Chemical Physics | C, Ch (Rec. Ph) |
| Chemistry | C, Ch (Rec. Ph) |
| Cognitive Science | C |
| Earth and Environmental Systems | C, Ch (Rec. Ph, Bio) |
| Economics and Mathematics | C |
| Financial Economics | C |
| Geology | C, Ch (Rec. Ph, Bio) |
| Geophysics | C, Ch, Ph |
| Geoscience | C, Ch (Rec. Ph, Bio) |
| Materials Science | C, Bio, Ch, Ph |
| Mathematical Applications in Economics and Finance | C |
| Mathematics | C |
| Mathematics and Its Applications: Physical Science | C, Ph |
| Mathematics and Its Applications: Probability/Statistics | C |
| Mathematics and Its Applications: Teaching | C |
| Mathematics and Philosophy | C |
| Mathematics and Physics | C, Ph |
| Physics | C, Ph |
| Physics and Philosophy | C, Ph |
| Planetary Science | C, Ch, Ph |
| Statistics | C |
| Statistical Science: Theory and Methods | C |
| Statistical Science: Methods and Practice | C |
| Synthetic and Catalytic Chemistry | C, Ch (Rec. Ph) |
Meet the Students
Hear what Physical & Mathematical Sciences students have to say about their programs.
Best of both worlds
Benefit from small class sizes and flexible programs
Forge your own path
Get the most out of your program
Gain hands-on experience
Prepare for the job market with research and work opportunities
Why Study Physical & Mathematical Sciences at Arts & Science?
Learn from the Best in Canada
Home to the Fields Institute, an international centre for math research, we have the top mathematics department in Canada. With award-winning faculty like Professor Alison Gibbs, a 3M National Teaching Fellow, you'll be learning from some of the best instructors in Canada.
Unique Learning Opportunities
Students can gain hands-on experience in our world-class facilities, including our state-of-the-art labs and astronomy observatory. Beyond the classroom, you'll have access to research opportunities inside and beyond the classroom through programs like the Summer Undergraduate Research Program and the Research Opportunities Program. Eligible students will also have the chance to gain 12-20 months of paid work experience and specialized professional development training through the Arts & Science Internship Program.
Formula for Success
Physical & Mathematical Sciences graduates are in demand. You can go on to pursue a career in fields like actuarial science, financial services, software development and so much more. Alumnus Julius Lindsay, who double majored in physics and math, is project manager of climate change and sustainable development for the city of Richmond Hill. He is also an alumni mentor for other U of T grads. Learn more about careers in physical and mathematical sciences using Career Navigator.
You have to understand how things work together, how to communicate them in a way that people can understand and how to get results. That's what you do in physics — you get a problem and use tools to solve it. Where I am today is largely because of my physics background. — Julius Lindsay