Mathematics is both an art and a science, and Pure Mathematics lies at its heart. Many study Pure Mathematics to pursue knowledge for its own sake and because of its beauty. Others want a strong foundation for graduate work or have a desire to apply their knowledge. Pure Mathematics courses explore the boundary of Mathematics and pure reason; they stimulate the mind, promise intellectual growth, and are an asset to any plan. We hope to impart to our students a love for learning, and to develop their abilities to work independently, and to think critically and creatively. This is achieved with small classes and a supportive atmosphere in which all students are challenged to fulfill their academic potential.
Pure Mathematics graduates have been successful in a wide variety of careers. Many go into industry, as the skills they have acquired are recognized by employers as being valuable and transferable. Others go into education at all various levels or continue their studies at graduate school in either Mathematics or some other discipline.
Pure Mathematics comprises a broad spectrum of Mathematics. Interests of the Department include algebra, number theory, analysis, geometry, topology, logic and functional equations, and range from the very classical to the most modern. The Department offers several honours plans including Honours Pure Mathematics, Honours Pure Mathematics with Electrical Engineering Electives, Honours Pure Mathematics/Teaching Option and Honours Mathematical Finance. It is also possible to do a minor in Pure Mathematics. All, except the Teaching Option (which is a co-op plan only), are available to both co-op and regular students. Co-operative students should be in stream four by the beginning of their 3B term.
Many students have found it rewarding to combine Pure Mathematics with another mathematical discipline. For such students double and joint honours plans are available. Students from other departments, especially those considering pursuing graduate work (in any area of Mathematics), are encouraged to speak with a Pure Mathematics advisor about which Pure Mathematics courses would be particularly important, interesting, and beneficial for them.
Students who have enjoyed their core mathematics courses and would like to obtain a broad base in mathematics, at a less intensive level than the traditional Honours Pure Mathematics plans, may be interested in pursuing an Honours Mathematical Sciences plan with an emphasis in Pure Mathematics. These plans are individually tailored, and may be combined with a minor in another faculty and/or with an emphasis in another department in the Mathematics Faculty. Interested students should consult a Pure Mathematics advisor.
A more detailed description of the Department and its plans may be found in the Pure Mathematics Undergraduate Handbook, on the Web at www.math.uwaterloo.ca/PM_Dept/.