Bachelor Of Mathematics - Combinatorics And Optimization (Co-op) 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 opportunities: Students can gain relevant paid work experience through the co-op program.
Flexible course selection: Students can choose electives from a wide range of subjects to customize their degree.
Research opportunities: Students can work as undergraduate research assistants with award-winning professors.

Students typically alternate between academic study and co-op work every four months, integrating classroom learning with practical experience. The program allows for a mix of Mathematics and Computer Science courses in the first year, followed by upper-year courses in Combinatorics and Optimization.

Featured Experiences

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

Co-op program: Students can participate in one of the world's leading co-op programs, gaining valuable work experience while earning money.
Student-run clubs: Engage with peers through the Pure Math, Applied Math, Combinatorics and Optimization Club, which hosts talks, games, and social events.
Research assistantships: Opportunities to work on research problems with faculty members, adding valuable experience to students' résumés.
Hackathons: Participate in events like Hack the North, connecting with students globally and enhancing problem-solving skills.
Supportive communities: Join groups like Women in Mathematics and Women in Computer Science, promoting diversity and support in STEM fields.

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 inform business decisions and strategies, utilizing statistical methods and tools.
Quantitative Analyst: Use mathematical models to analyze financial data and assess risk for investment firms.
Risk Analyst: Evaluate potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them in various industries.
Actuary: Assess financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, often working in insurance and pension sectors.

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

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 (Co-Op) program at the University of Waterloo, the following Academic Requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Prerequisite courses:
- English and Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5 in each.
Overall average of 8.3 is required.

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.

It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner. For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

English Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at the University of Waterloo. Success in our programs requires a high level of English language proficiency.

You 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.

Required English Language Scores

Tests that do not appear on this chart are not accepted for admission consideration.

Official test scores must be sent by the testing agency directly to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Emails, faxes, and student copies of test scores are not accepted for admission.

Test	Minimum Score	How to Send Test Results
Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), including Home Edition and Paper Edition	90 overall, 25 writing, 25 speaking	Waterloo's institution code is 0996 and our department code is 00. We do not accept electronic TOEFL scores for undergraduate admissions.
IELTS Academic	6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening	We accept the electronic Test Report Form (TRF). Waterloo's e-transfer institution name is University of Waterloo – Undergraduate OR University of Waterloo Admissions.
CAEL or CAEL online	70 overall, 60 per band, 70 writing, 70 speaking	You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo as a recipient institution.
PTE Academic	63 overall, 65 writing, 65 speaking	Send your Score Report Code or Registration ID to myapplication@uwaterloo.ca.
Cambridge English test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)	180 overall, 176 writing, 176 reading, 176 speaking, 176 listening	Go to the Candidate Results Online portal, input your ID and secret number then click on "Send my result."
Duolingo English test	120 overall, with minimum Literacy and Production scores of 110 (before July 1, 2024); 120 overall with Literacy and Production scores of 125 (after July 1, 2024)	Results will not be accepted without subscores. You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo – Undergraduate as a recipient institution.
EFAS - English for Academic Success	75% overall in 400 levels, 75% in each of academic, oral, and writing	Your scores will be sent to us automatically by the English Language Institute.

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!