Undergraduate Programs with Majors and Combined Majors in Mathematics

What is Mathematics?

Mathematics is one of the oldest of sciences. Although there are many applications of mathematics, the questions that the subject of mathematics seeks to resolve are questions whose answers 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 fields. Mathematics further differs from other disciplines in that its advances come through the application of pure reason (via the human mind) rather than through observation (via scientific instrumentation). Consequently, mathematics builds upon its past achievements and develops independently of technological advancements.

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), and topology (the study of geometrical objects and their deformations). Applied mathematics refers to any discipline in which the development of mathematical tools is the main objective. Consider: (i) the study of how blood flows through the cardiovascular system; (ii) encryption for secure internet commerce; and (iii) the development of models for chemical reactions in the high atmosphere. These are all examples of applied mathematics. Other examples are Actuarial Science and Statistics. The basis for using and applying mathematics to any real world problem is a good knowledge of pure mathematics.

For further information, please see

• Uses of Mathematics
• Profiles of graduates from undergraduate mathematics programs

The BSc and BSc Honours programs

Students who graduate from the B.Sc. program will be proficient in the uses of mathematics, especially with calculus, matrix algebra, and differential equations. These graduates will also have been exposed to some statistics, computer science, and higher level mathematical reasoning in the form of mathematical proof. Courses in number theory, abstract algebra, and optimisation can be taken as part of the B.Sc. program, and there are options that allow for a combined major in mathematics and computer science and for a combined major in mathematics and statistics.

Students who graduate from the B.Sc. Honours program will be proficient in high-level abstract mathematical reasoning. The B.Sc. Honours program is excellent preparation for graduate studies and many University of Regina graduates from the program go on to earn M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees at top universities throughout North America.

What can I do with my degree?

The answer to this question depends on who is asking the question. Graduates from a mathematics program are logical, creative thinkers. Even if one does not become a "professional" mathematician, the ability to reason at a high level is a skill that can take a person a long way and in a great many directions. For a list of professional opportunities that a degree in mathematics can lead to, see employment opportunities for mathematics graduates.

Program Descriptions

The University of Regina general calendar contains detailed information about degree requirements, course descriptions, prerequisites, and scholarships. What follows is a very brief synopsis of the course requirements for each degree program.

B.Sc. with Major in Mathematics

Required courses for the major: