Mathematics & Statistics Gateway

Mathematics and Statistics study patterns underlying diverse phenomena such as the weather, human and animal populations, stock markets, the form of a molecule, or the structure of the space and the time.

Using mathematics we discover subtle and sometimes unexpected features of these phenomena, as well develop ways to predict their behaviour which is an extremely important component of our understanding of the world and the space that surrounds us.

Statistics can help us make sense of large data sets and complex systems in areas such as astronomy, genomics, social networks, climate simulation, and medicine. Statisticians examine the patterns which arise in data with the goal of distinguishing true patterns from chance effects.

The Mathematics and Statistics I program introduces students to the foundational tools and ideas of mathematics leading into our degree programs.

Mathematics and Statistics at McMaster emphasizes a student-centered approach to teaching by offering a curriculum that is rich with opportunities for cooperative education, experiential learning, and undergraduate research. Students who take courses in mathematics and statistics enjoy the following aspects of our curriculum:

• Broad-based, interdisciplinary courses
• Courses covering numerous areas in theoretical and applied mathematics
• Lectures by worlds recognized leaders in research and teaching
• Program flexibility (a minor in any area can be declared with math degree)
• Specialization in Honours Actuarial & Financial Mathematics and Mathematics & Computer Science
• Courses in applied mathematics and statistics including training in industry-recognized software
• A dynamic undergraduate Math & Stats Society
• Opportunities for paid undergraduate summer research with faculty members

Whether you know exactly what area of science you are interested in or are still undecided (or change your mind after you arrive!), the structure of our Level I Mathematics & Statistics Gateway program will provide you with a range of Level II program options.

While some students continue in a Level II program from the same area of study as their Level I program (for example, selecting Level II Honours Actuarial & Financial Mathematics after completion of the Math & Stats Gateway), others discover a new area of interest and change their original direction (for example, a Math & Stats Gateway student may choose to move into Honours Medical and Biological Physics). Regardless of your path, at the end of first year you will rank order and apply to up to four Level II programs.

Know your deadlines

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Explore your options

McMaster has 25 direct-entry undergraduate programs. Find the one that’s right for you.

Check your admission requirements

Research and compare program requirements with our Admission Requirements tool. Use the drop-down menus to start looking at and comparing programs.

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