Pure Mathematics
Bachelor of Science
(Faculty of Science)
In this program you will stretch your creative and lateral thinking skills to tackle increasingly complex challenges while becoming knowledgeable in several essential sub-disciplines of pure mathematics. You’ll be able to quantify and describe phenomena in mathematical terms, extract and focus on key features, and draw logical conclusions. Employers will value your analytical reasoning skills and strong logical abilities, leading to careers options in both business and scientific industries.
General Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission applicants are required to present the appropriate high school subjects and a competitive average.
Application/Document Deadlines
Mathematics and Statistics:
Students must meet the competitive Mathematics and Statistics Average.
Degrees Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Pure Mathematics
- Bachelor of Science in Pure Mathematics (Honours)
Optional Concentrations in:
- Cryptography
Mathematics is an age-old endeavour to discern patterns and underlying structures in our experiences. Pure mathematics is the creation, development and exploration of the form and knowledge of mathematics itself, paying considerable attention to the investigation and description of fundamental patterns and structure. The Pure Mathematics program at the University of Calgary places emphasis on mathematical thought, whereas the Applied Mathematics program studies the use and application of mathematical models and techniques in disciplines outside of mathematics and in real-world scenarios.
Students in the Pure Mathematics program are introduced to the methods of modern mathematics, with its traditions of rigorous, logical argumentation and precise techniques of calculation. They also build a firm foundation in algebra and analysis, and gain significant exposure to the following major subdivisions of pure mathematics:
- Algebra and Number Theory
- Analysis
- Discrete Mathematics
- Geometry and Topology
- Set Theory and Logic
Why Study Pure Mathematics?
Mind challenging
Do you like brainteasers? Expect to be intellectually challenged since problem solving is an essential component of each course in the Pure Mathematics program. Pure Mathematics majors hone their creative, exploratory and lateral-thinking skills during the course of finding and presenting solutions to problems. They also gradually gain confidence in the process and power of logical thought as they develop their mathematical intuition. If you're looking for a gratifying mental challenge, Pure Mathematics might be the right program for you!
Multiplying prospects
Mathematics is a vibrant and expanding area of human endeavour, cumulatively building on itself and developing at an increasing rate. Demands within mathematics and the science and technology sectors continue to drive the rapid development of mathematical thought, offering graduates new and exciting opportunities to contribute and shape their field.
Sound logic
All highly trained individuals, and those in positions of responsibility, require the ability to generalize and understand statistical data, handle computations, and abstract and reason through sound logic. Mathematical study hones these skills to a high level, making Pure Mathematics graduates very attractive to potential employers who value analytical reasoning skills and strong logical abilities. Employers also appreciate the rigorous training that graduates have undergone, which enables them to learn quickly on the job. Pure Mathematics graduates are prepared to meet the intellectual challenges of a changing world.
What do I need to get in?
You'll need to meet the admission requirements of the Faculty of Science which can be found online at www.ucalgary.ca/admissions.
What will I study in my first year?
First year students obtain the basic mathematical skills required in all science and engineering disciplines by taking courses such as calculus, linear methods and other fundamental topics in modern mathematics, as well as computer science.
If you intend to pursue the concentration in Cryptography you should also plan to take further courses in computer science in your first two years.
What will I study in later years?
Second year builds on the basic skills learned in first year, and introduces Pure Math students to further calculus, differential equations and linear methods. You are also introduced to probability and statistics as well as abstract algebra.
In your third and fourth year you'll undertake more in-depth studies on Mathematical analysis, algebra, complex analysis as well as a choice of specialized topics from both classical and modern pure mathematics such as set theory, geometry and number theory.
Students are also expected to take a number of courses from outside their major field and are encouraged to take courses that will provide breadth and contribute to the interdisciplinary nature of their degree.
Students can further focus their degree by completing an optional concentration in one of the following areas:
Concentration in Cryptography
With the progress of quantum information and the increased use of "online" transactions, the need for secure and reliable cryptographic systems is growing. Just think of how many transactions are completed electronically -- debit, banking, Internet purchasing, email -- and the importance of protecting authentic data.
Students in this concentration will learn principles of computer science, mathematics and security in the areas of cryptosystems, encryption, perfect secrecy, decoding and various industrial applications. Future career paths can lead to e-security, national defence, finance and banking, or any industry using an Internet based transaction system.
What can I do with my degree?
Pure Mathematics graduates are knowledgeable in several essential sub-disciplines of pure mathematics and are able to quantify and describe phenomena in mathematical terms, extract and focus on key features, and draw logical conclusions. They've also developed strengths in analysis, problem solving, logical calculation, and data generation and organization. Through careful program planning, Pure Mathematics graduates may gain employment in a wide range of sectors including education, research, public service, business, industry and information technology. Possible careers may be found in government departments, defence industries, IT companies, petroleum production and financial institutions. With teacher training, graduates can take advantage of the increasing demand for math instructors in primary and secondary education. Career opportunities may exist in these sectors:
Government
Canadian Armed Forces, Statistics Canada
Education/communication
Primary education, secondary education
Business
Market analysis, investment advising
Who can I contact for more information?
Student Finance
