Mathematics is one of the oldest sciences. Although math has many applications in virtually all industries, the answers to the questions that math asks will deepen our understanding of, and reveal new insights into, mathematics itself. The inherent structure and elegance of mathematics are features of the subject that are difficult to surpass in other sciences.
Mathematics also differs from other disciplines in that it advances by applying pure reason (by way of the human mind) rather than observation (by way of scientific instrumentation). As a result, mathematics builds upon its past achievements and develops independently of technological advancements.
At the U of R, you can take one of four bachelor’s degree programs in mathematics:
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
In this program, you will learn to be proficient in the uses of mathematics, especially calculus, matrix algebra, and differential equations. You will also be exposed to statistics, computer science, and higher level mathematical reasoning in the form of mathematical proof. Courses include number theory, abstract algebra, and optimization.
Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematics
In the honours program, you will learn to be proficient in high level abstract mathematical reasoning. The honours program is excellent preparation for graduate studies and many University of Regina graduates from the program go on to earn a Master of Science and Doctoral Degree at top universities in North America.
Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics and Statistics
Graduates of this program will be proficient in the uses of mathematics, especially calculus, matrix algebra, differential equations, probability, and statistics. Students will also be exposed to computer science and higher level mathematical reasoning in the form of mathematical proof.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Mathematics (combined major)
This program is designed for students who are interested in computation or theoretical computer science.
What Are Mathematics and Applied Mathematics?
Mathematics
Mathematics is the science that deals with the logic of shape, quantity, and arrangement. It is the building block for nearly everything in our daily lives, including smartphones, computers, software, architecture (ancient and modern), art, money, engineering, travel, and sports.
The main branches of pure mathematics are:
- Algebra (the study of arithmetical systems of various types)
- Analysis (the study of the continuum and the mathematics of change)
- Combinatorics (the mathematics of counting)
- Probability (the mathematics of random phenomena)
- Topology (the study of geometrical objects and their deformations)
Applied Mathematics and Statistics
Applied mathematics refers to any discipline in which the development of mathematical tools is the main objective. Some examples include:
- Studying how blood flows through the cardiovascular system
- Number-theoretic encryption for secure internet commerce
- Developing models for understanding the folding process in proteins
Applied mathematics also involves a strong knowledge of statistical science, which is fundamental to analyzing and interpreting data. Projects could include the following:
- Classify customers based on spending behaviour (e.g., the number of shops to use, the average time to spend in a shop, the average amount to spend, etc.)
- Predict whether someone will have a certain type of cancer on the basis of demographic, diet, and clinical measurements
- Identify the economic impact of epidemic animal diseases, and their control programs
Some course offerings in mathematics at the U of R include:
Complex Analysis I
This course explores complex numbers, analytic functions, contour integration, Cauchy's theorem, infinite series, calculus of residues, and basic theory of conformal mappings.
Euclidean Geometry
This course is intended to familiarize students with Euclidean geometry. Topics include the postulates and theorems of both classical and modern Euclidean geometry.
Introduction to Mathematical Logic
This course looks at propositional and first-order predicate logic from a mathematical viewpoint. Topics include axiomatically built theories and their models, and recursive functions. Also includes a detailed study of one or more simple mathematical theories, and basic ideas of automated theorem proving.
Introduction to Quantum Information Theory
This course is in the mathematics of quantum information theory. Topics include information measures, quantum states and observables, qubits, entanglement, quantum channels, entropy, and measurements.