Mathematics University of British Columbia

Overview

The Mathematics (BSc) at the University of British Columbia provides students with a rigorous foundation in a field that combines systematic reasoning with creative intuition. This four-year programme encourages students to reveal and explain patterns found in nature, finance, and abstract geometry. By mastering the ability to simplify complex situations through abstraction, graduates gain a versatile asset applicable to numerous global industries.

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing for concentrations in Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, or Statistics. Students can also pursue combined majors in Computer Science or other science subjects. For those aiming for advanced research, the Honours degree provides an ideal pathway into graduate studies.

Why Mathematics at the University of British Columbia?

The university is home to the Living Mathematics Project, which utilises modern programming and web technology to innovate mathematical communication. Students benefit from a prize-winning faculty and access to specialised resources including the Mathematics Learning Centre and a dedicated undergraduate computer lab. The institution also maintains strong links with the Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences and the Institute of Applied Mathematics.

UBC consistently achieves high rankings in the prestigious Putnam Mathematics Competition, and all undergraduates are encouraged to participate. The Vancouver campus provides a historic setting for study, featuring a dedicated Mathematics Library and an active Math Club. These facilities foster a collaborative environment where students can engage with peers and leading experts in their specialist fields.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 51041 per year
• National fee: CAD 6079 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Differential Calculus with Applications
• Integral Calculus with Applications
• Computation, Programs, and Programming
• Enriched Physics
• Calculus
• Elementary Differential Equations
• Mathematical Proof
• Matrix Algebra
• Software Construction

Careers with Mathematics

Graduates from this programme are highly sought after in the business, finance, and IT sectors due to their analytical reasoning and computational modelling skills. Many alumni secure roles in the software industry, investment banking, and the actuarial field. The degree also serves as a strong foundation for those entering the education sector as specialist teachers.

Recent graduates have found success at high-profile organisations such as Google, Apple Inc., and Deloitte. Common job titles include research engineer, software engineer, quantitative developer, and servicing analyst. The Department of Mathematics provides dedicated actuarial advisors to help students structure their studies for specific career paths in risk management and valuation services.