Mathematics | University of Lethbridge

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?

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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 • Proof Techniques • Combinatorics • Number Theory • Differential Equations • Probability • Geometry • Real & Complex Analysis • Group, Ring & Field Theory • Statistics • Linear Algebra • Topology • Mathematical Logic

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:

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Algebra Analysis Combinatorics

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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 • Geologist • Cryptologist • Meteorologist • Statistician • Astronomer • Actuary • Ecologist • Economist • Epidemiologist • Investment Banker • Biomathematician • Computer Scientist • Biostatistician • Systems Analyst • Operations Research Analyst • Software Developer • Sales Manager • Physicist “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.”

- Sourab, Mathematics

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.

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Put Your Knowledge to Work Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects or by testing your knowledge in a real-life setting, we can help.

Combined with your required coursework, the opportunities outlined below will provide you with a solid foundation for further studies and an excellent framework for a challenging and rewarding career — whatever direction you decide to go.

Applied Studies Earn course credit for career-related paid, volunteer or community service work experience. This program is specially designed to allow you to integrate principles learned in the classroom in a practical work setting.

For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies

Co-operative Education (Co-op) ULethbridge is proud to offer you the chance to participate in co-op. Co-op allows you to gain work experience directly related to your studies and make invaluable contacts in the workforce, all while earning a competitive salary. Completion of the program allows you to receive a co-op designation on your degree and, most importantly, a kick-start to your career the minute you graduate.

For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/coop

Participate in Research In addition to your regular courses, you can contribute to departmental research activities. For example, you can complete an independent study course or gain employment as a research assistant. If your GPA is high enough, you can also enrol in undergraduate thesis-based courses where research is a component of your studies.

Contact your department to learn more!

Academic Advising Your decision to explore a university education is the first step toward a great future — now let us help you navigate your degree options at ULethbridge and set you on the road to success. Do you have questions about what field of study best suits you? Would you like help with program and registration planning and just can’t find the answers?

If so, you should speak to an academic advisor today — advisors have the answers to these questions and many more.

To learn more about the support services available to you through our academic advisors, visit: ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising

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Questions? Contact Student Recruitment and Enrolment Services at 403-320-5700 or inquiries@uleth.ca *This brochure should be used in conjunction with the University of Lethbridge calendar, which is the final authority regarding program requirements and academic regulations.