Faculty of Arts & Science Mathematics
Calculate your passion
Do you like searching for patterns? Are you a problem solver with an eye for details? Do you want to keep your options open to a variety of highly profitable career possibilities? ulethbridge.ca/future-student
Mathematics is the study of structure and patterns in numbers and shapes. It is an active research area, providing a language, theories and models to solve complex problems across a wide variety of scientific, industrial and economic sectors.
Over the past century, discoveries in pure mathematics have found unexpected applications in science, industry and finance, such as secure internet transactions, Google, DNA sequencing and the stock market.
As a math student, you will study both pure and applied mathematics — giving you the opportunity to see real-world applications of your theoretical studies.
The program offers courses in four main areas: algebra, analysis, number theory and geometry, as well as statistics. Many students opt to combine math with courses in physics, computer science, chemistry, economics, business or other areas of interest.
A mathematics education provides solid training that is sought after by employers and allows flexibility in your career choices. You will learn to tackle challenging problems employing a variety of theories and statistical models. You’ll also learn to communicate your expertise by combining your technical skills with a sound liberal education.
You will have access to state-of-the-art science and research facilities. These facilities provide the infrastructure to support the research interests of our award-winning faculty — your instructors. You’ll also have access to the latest equipment in our computer labs and small class sizes ensure access is available whenever you need it.
The knowledge and experience you gain from the program will provide an exceptional stepping stone into a career in mathematics, whether you choose to pursue a Master’s or Doctorate or enter the working world.
Mathematics Degrees. The Department of Mathematics & Computer Science offers a major in mathematics for the 40-course Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc) degree programs. You can also select a general major in the sciences and choose mathematics as one of the three streams. Alternatively, you can declare mathematics as your BSc major for the Combined BSc/BEd or BSc/BMgt programs.
Mathematics Courses. Course selections for the program will vary, but may include:
• Calculus
• Combinatorics
• Differential Equations
• Geometry
• Group, Ring & Field Theory
• Linear Algebra
• Mathematical Logic
• Proof Techniques
• Number Theory
• Probability
• Real & Complex Analysis
• Statistics
• Topology
Minors. Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Minors are not available in all programs.
The minor in mathematics is available as an add on to all majors in the BA, BSc and BASc except the major in mathematics and the general majors in the sciences if mathematics is chosen as one of the three streams.
Learn more at go.uleth.ca/minors.
Honours Thesis. If your GPA is high enough in your fourth year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.
Student Clubs & Activities. The Social Mathematicians Club hosts various social activities such as movie nights and Pi day. The Student Seminar Series offers research related talks and activities, giving you the opportunity to develop your communication skills and share your love for the subject. You can also be part of the next university team for Putnam, a prestigious North American undergraduate contest.
Our Faculty & Their Research
As an undergraduate student, you have the rare opportunity to participate in research projects conducted by top researchers, using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. These projects usually take place in the summer and give you the chance to get additional hands-on experience.
The department also hosts research-related activities, such as The Colloquium Lecture Series and The Number Theory and Combinatorics Seminars, both welcoming leading experts from other universities to speak on-campus.
Current Research & Areas of Interest:
• Algebra
• Analysis
• Combinatorics
• Logic
• Number Theory
• Statistics
Your Future Prospects
Skills Acquired. This program will allow you to develop a variety of mathematical skills, such as: dealing with abstract concepts, analyzing and solving problems, constructing mathematical arguments, analyzing and interpreting data, finding patterns and drawing conclusions, applying mathematical theories to physical theories and using mathematical software. You will also learn to present arguments and conclusions with accuracy and clarity, organize your work and time effectively, as well as building on your critical thinking, communication and teamwork skills.
Related Fields. Being a mathematician is touted as being the best of all jobs. In 2009, the Wall Street Journal published a study ranking mathematician, actuary and statistician as the top three careers. Other recent surveys grading job satisfaction according to income, job security, stress and work environment all ranked jobs involving mathematical reasoning and knowledge at the very top.
Here are just a few of the options open to you once you’ve earned your degree:
• Researcher
• Cryptologist
• Statistician
• Actuary
• Economist
• Investment Banker
• Computer Scientist
• Systems Analyst
• Software Developer
• Physicist
• Geologist
• Meteorologist
• Astronomer
• Ecologist
• Epidemiologist
• Biomathematician
• Biostatistician
• Operations Research Analyst
• Sales Manager
“An undergraduate degree in mathematics can lead you to so many places. The Lethbridge Number Theory Group is one of the best number theory research groups in Canada. Apart from regularly giving talks on various mathematical topics, I have attended the Alberta Number Theory Days XI in Banff, which is held every year to discuss the research going on at multiple universities in Alberta.”
Graduate Studies. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers graduate programs at the Master and Doctoral levels, spanning over 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at ULethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.
Professional Disciplines. Your undergraduate degree in mathematics provides an excellent foundation for engineering, architecture, business management and education.
Calculate your passion in Mathematics.
- Sourab, Mathematics
