Bachelor Of Mathematics - Combinatorics And Optimization at University of Waterloo - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

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Program overview

Earn a Bachelor of Mathematics degree in Combinatorics and Optimization and graduate with up to 2 years of paid co-op work experience. This program equips students with essential skills to tackle complex problems in various fields such as computer science, business, and communications. By mastering combinatorial techniques and optimization strategies, graduates will be prepared to model and solve significant management challenges, from optimizing flight schedules to enhancing factory layouts. The program emphasizes real-world applications, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Mathematics in Combinatorics and Optimization is designed to provide a comprehensive education over a period of four years. The program includes:

Co-op Program: Yes, students can participate in a co-op program to gain relevant work experience.
Regular Program: Yes, students can also choose to complete the program without co-op.
Minors: Students have the option to add a minor to their degree.

Throughout the program, students will engage in a mix of mathematics and computer science courses, along with electives that allow for customization of their educational experience. The co-op work-study sequence typically begins in the second year, where students alternate between academic study and practical work experience every four months. This structure not only enhances learning but also provides valuable industry exposure.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Mathematics in Combinatorics and Optimization offers several unique experiences that enhance the educational journey:

Co-op Opportunities: Students can gain up to two years of paid work experience through the co-op program, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Research Assistantships: Undergraduates have the chance to work on research projects with award-winning professors, adding valuable experience to their resumes.
Student Clubs: Engage with peers through the student-run Pure Math, Applied Math, Combinatorics and Optimization Club, which hosts talks, social events, and activities.
Competitions: Participate in events like Hack the North, Canada’s largest hack-a-thon, to collaborate with students from around the world.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Mathematics in Combinatorics and Optimization can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Software Developer: Design and create software applications, ensuring functionality and user experience.
Data Analyst: Analyze data sets to provide insights and support decision-making processes in businesses.
Quantitative Analyst: Use mathematical models to analyze financial data and assess risks for investment firms.
Risk Analyst: Evaluate potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them in various sectors, including finance and insurance.
Actuary: Assess financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to help businesses and clients make informed decisions.

These roles highlight the versatility of the degree, allowing graduates to work in diverse industries such as technology, finance, and consulting.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Mathematics - Combinatorics and Optimization program at the University of Waterloo, the following Academic Requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not specified, but students are encouraged to maintain a strong academic record.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Prerequisite courses include:

English with a minimum grade of 7.5.
Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5.

Overall average required: 8.3.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, the following general requirements must be met:

Bàng Tốt Nghiệp Phố Thông Trung Học (Secondary School Graduation Certificate) is required.

Students are advised to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered. For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

At the University of Waterloo, English is the primary language of instruction, and a high level of English language proficiency is essential for success in our programs. If you are applying for undergraduate admissions, you will need to provide an English language test score if:

Your four most recent years of full-time education have NOT been in an English-language school system AND
Your first language is NOT English.

However, you may be exempt from submitting English language test scores if you meet one or more of the following exceptions:

You have studied in Canada and your first language is English.
You are a bilingual Francophone Canadian.
You have studied in an English-language school system for your four most recent years of full-time education.

The following English language tests are accepted for admission consideration, along with their minimum score requirements:

Internet-based TOEFL (iBT): 90 overall, with at least 25 in writing and speaking.
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, with at least 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in reading and listening.
CAEL: 70 overall, with at least 60 per band.
PTE Academic: 63 overall, with at least 65 in writing and speaking.
Cambridge English test: 180 overall, with at least 176 in writing, reading, speaking, and listening.
Duolingo English test: 120 overall, with minimum Literacy and Production scores of 110 (for tests completed before July 1, 2024) or 125 (for tests completed after July 1, 2024).
EFAS - English for Academic Success: 75% overall in 400 levels, with at least 75% in each of academic, oral, and writing.

It is important to note that all test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar, and unofficial results will not be accepted.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!