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.

Jump to

• Admission requirements - entry to the university
• Your first year
• Admission requirements - admission to the major
• Sample courses
• Career opportunities

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 and Computer Science (BA or B.Sc. major)
• Mathematics and Economics (BA or B.Sc. major)
• Mathematics and Physics (B.Sc. major and honours)
• Mathematics and Chemistry (B.Sc. major and honours)

Back to top ↑

Admission requirements - entry to the university

Applications are considered on a rolling basis. You are encouraged to apply by:

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.

Important to know: You cannot choose Mathematics, Statistics or Data Science as your major at the time of application. Admission into the major requires the completion of university level courses. Follow the information listed below under your first year and admission to the major for further details.

Back to top ↑

Your first year

You can complete the mathematics or statistics majors as part of a BA or B.Sc. program. Choose the appropriate degree below and have a look at a sample schedule of courses you may need to take before you declare a major in mathematics or statistics.

This is a sample only. Meet with an academic advisor to create a plan that aligns with your specific needs and goals.

Bachelor of arts students (BA or iBA)

1. Both LS courses must be in the same language. If your first language is not English and you do not meet the standards for entry into regular first-year English courses you may use English 1020 and 1021 to fulfill this requirement. Such students are permitted to complete up to an additional six credit hours in English CRW courses at the 1000 level in order to fulfill the CRW requirement.
   
   
2. Selection of a mathematics course depends on your background and ability. You should refer to the  prior to selecting your first-semester course. If you are completing Mathematics 1090/1000, you will be required to complete Mathematics 1001 as well. If you pass the CPT, you may take Mathematics 1001 in your first semester and 2000 and/or 2050 in your second semester.
   
   
3. Mathematics majors should complete a computer programming course such as Computer Science 1001 in one of the first three semesters. Statistics majors should take Statistics 1500 in the first year.

Bachelor of science students

1. If you are completing Mathematics 1090/1000, you will be required to complete Mathematics 1001 as well.
   
   
2. If you pass the CPT, you may take Mathematics 1001 in your first semester and 2000 and/or 2050 in your second semester.
   
   
3. Mathematics majors interested in mathematical modeling of physical phenomena should take Physics 1050 (or 1020) in the first semester. If you complete Physics 1020 with at least 70%, you should take Physics 1051 - otherwise, you should take Physics 1021 in the second semester.
   
   
4. You are required to complete six credit hours in CRW courses, including at least three credit hours in English. Students attending Grenfell Campus will normally complete English 1000/1001 in their first year.
   
   
5. Mathematics majors should complete a computer programming course such as Computer Science 1001 in their first year.
   
   
6. Potential statistics majors are encouraged to take Statistics 1500 in their first year.

Further assistance

For assistance with course selection, contact the Academic Advising Centre.

For additional program information, visit the Department of Mathematics and Statistics or contact Tara Stuckless.

Back to top ↑

Admission requirements - admission to the major

Current Memorial students

In order to declare a Mathematics or Statistics major, you must complete 15 credit hours (5 courses).

BA and iBA students: You are strongly recommended to complete the BA core degree requirements in your first year of study.

B.Sc. students: You must complete the following core degree requirements (it is recommended that you complete these  requirements in your first year of study):

• 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

Back to top ↑

Sample courses

MATH 2030 - Mathematical Inquiry I
MATH 2260 - Ordinary Differential Equations I
MATH 3202 - Vector Calculus

Back to top ↑

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.

Back to top ↑