Mathematical Physics

Study the very big to the very small. This math is universal.

In Mathematical Physics, you'll combine theoretical physics with high-level math courses in differential equations, vector calculus, and applied mathematics. You'll also get plenty of chances to apply that learning with hands-on labs in mechanics, electricity and magnetism, computer programming, optics, and more.

You won't find a better place to study than Waterloo. Our Faculty of Mathematics is the largest in Canada. Meanwhile, the Department of Physics is one of Canada's largest and most innovative, and this program comes with a co-op option so students can gain up to two years of paid work experience while pursuing their degree.

Join a program that fosters curious minds to question the smallest particles, the largest forces, and everything in between. Where you'll get the support needed to succeed (and possibly win a Nobel Prize in Physics (like Waterloo professor Donna Strickland).

Whatever door you choose, Waterloo offers the key to open it.

• Learn from top researchers. Catch a lecture at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, just south of campus, or spend a research term at Waterloo's Institute for Quantum Computing.
• Make friends for life. Plan to live in residence? Live in a Science Academic Cluster and meet other first-year Science students. Form a study group or walk to class together with your new classmates.

Admission requirements

Apply to Mathematics or Physical Sciences and choose Mathematical Physics as your major.

Choose your focus

You can earn your Mathematical Physics degree through the Faculty of Mathematics or the Faculty of Science. What's the difference?

• While most of your first-year courses will be similar, you'll take more science or math courses in your upper years depending on which entry program you choose.
• The degree you earn will be either a Bachelor of Mathematics (BMath) through the Faculty of Mathematics or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) through the Faculty of Science.
• Depending on your interests and whether you'd like to earn a math or science degree, you'll apply to one of two entry programs: Mathematics or Physical Sciences (which have different admission requirements).
• You'll then choose Mathematical Physics as your major within one of these entry programs.
• The courses required to earn your degree will focus more on math or science.
  • Bachelor of Mathematics requirements
  • Bachelor of Science requirements

Student life, including women in mathematics