Best Universities for Mathematics in Canada

Math remains a top choice for students and is a valued subject with implications in all areas of life and many professional sectors. Canada has some of the best mathematics universities in the world that offer interesting programs for academic and research excellence. High-quality education and a strong economy also enable students to pursue enriching careers in various professional fields. The opportunities after a degree in the subject are immense and help earn handsome salaries.

According to Payscale, a Master of Mathematics degree holder in Canada can earn between CAD 42,000 and CAD 153,000. If you truly understand the power of numbers and like mathematics, pursuing higher education options in Canada can give you a solid foundation for a promising career.

Learn more about the best universities in Canada for Mathematics below (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025). If you wish to learn more or begin your application, book a free consultation with StudyIn today.

Top 10 Canadian Universities for Mathematics

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto’s Department of Mathematics is widely regarded as the best in Canada. It offers diverse pathways for studying mathematics at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Programmes are notably flexible, encompassing minor and major combinations with other disciplines, along with eight specialist options at undergraduate level.

While the minor and major tracks are tailored for students wishing to apply mathematical skills across various fields, specialist programmes provide in-depth expertise in mathematical language and reasoning. At the postgraduate level, students may pursue distinctive courses such as the Master of Science in Applied Computing or the Master of Mathematical Finance Programming.

• Course to consider: Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
• Entry requirements: All candidates must have passed the senior secondary level of education with six courses, including English and Calculus & Vectors or their equivalent. English language proficiency is also required for non-native speakers of the language.

2. University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia’s Department of Mathematics ranks among the top in Canada, delivering over 131 programmes annually taught by 73 award-winning faculty members. Mathematics degrees are available at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including PhD programmes. Undergraduate options are offered through three faculties, including BA, BSc with major and honours streams, BASc, and a combined BSc Mathematics and BEd Education degree.

At the postgraduate level, UBC provides MSc and PhD programmes in both pure and applied mathematics. Students may also explore courses from the Department of Statistics or the Institute of Applied Mathematics.

• Course to consider: Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
• Entry requirements: The candidates must have completed senior secondary school with Math/Applied Math, Chemistry, and Physics subjects. English language proficiency is also required for non-native speakers of the language.

3. University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo is one of Canada’s premier research-focused institutions, recognised for its experiential learning model and strong industry partnerships. It houses North America’s only dedicated Faculty of Mathematics and is internationally acclaimed for excellence in Mathematics and Computer Science. Students may choose from a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, with opportunities for research embedded throughout.

The university offers 23 undergraduate options categorised into Honours Mathematics, Computer Science, and Math & Business, many of which are available as co-operative programmes for hands-on learning. At the postgraduate level, Master’s and PhD courses are offered in areas including Pure Mathematics, Data Science, and Applied Mathematics.

• Course to consider: Master of Mathematics in Applied Mathematics
• Entry requirements: All candidates must have graduated with a four-year Honours Bachelor’s degree specialising in Mathematics, Engineering or Science with a strong concentration in math. An overall score of 78% must be achieved in the undergraduate work. English language competency is also required for non-native speakers of the language.

4. McGill University

McGill University’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics, established in 1846, has distinguished itself particularly in research fields such as number theory, algebraic geometry, combinatorics, and mathematical physics. Undergraduate students may pursue majors in mathematics alongside subjects like biology, physiology, physics, computer science, and statistics. Specialised programmes in both pure and applied mathematics are available.

At the postgraduate level, McGill offers exceptional teaching and research training, with a robust curriculum featuring both foundational and advanced courses across all branches of mathematics.

• Course to consider: B.Sc. Honours Mathematics
• Entry requirements: All candidates must have passed the senior secondary examination with scores between 75%-85% to apply. Non-native speakers of English also need to show competency in the language.

5. University of Montreal

The University of Montreal is one of the world’s leading French-language institutions, although many of its programmes are offered in both English and French. Its Department of Mathematics and Statistics belongs to the Faculty of Arts and Science and provides undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in mathematics. Instruction is available in French, and applicants may be required to undertake a preparatory year depending on their academic background.

• Course to consider: Bachelor’s in Mathematics
• Entry requirements: All applicants must have passed senior secondary education and completed one year of university studies, including mathematics, or they may need to attend a preparatory year at UdeM. Candidates must also show proficiency in the French language.

6. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta’s Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences is deeply engaged in teaching, research, and outreach. With approximately 60 full-time faculty members, the department promotes excellence in pure and applied mathematics as well as statistics. Students benefit from a dynamic academic environment, with programmes offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Teaching methods frequently incorporate innovative technology, and several faculty members have received recognition at provincial and national levels.

The department is also known for its community engagement, providing students with real-world experience through collaboration with the private sector.

• Course to consider: Master of Science with a specialisation in Applied Mathematics (Mathematical and Statistical Sciences)
• Entry requirements: Applicants must have a four-year undergraduate degree in a subject with a strong background and showcase proficiency in the English language.

7. McMaster University

McMaster University delivers its mathematics programmes through the Department of Mathematics and Statistics within the Faculty of Science. Renowned for its innovative approach to education and research, the department offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Several programmes include co-operative options, allowing students to undertake extended work placements during their studies. Teaching is typically student-focused, with many subjects taught in an interdisciplinary format. The university has notable research strengths in Algebra and Number Theory, Financial Mathematics, Mathematical Logic, and Applied Mathematics.

• Course to consider: MSc in Mathematics
• Entry requirements: Applicants must have a first-class degree and showcase proficiency in the English language.

8. University of Calgary

The University of Calgary delivers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in mathematics through its Department of Mathematics and Statistics, exploring various branches of the discipline and their practical applications. The university follows a student-centred teaching approach, with active learning encouraged through in-class problem solving and assignments. Students are equipped with both foundational and advanced knowledge in modern sub-fields such as differential equations, geometry, number theory, and probability.

Many courses offer modular options, allowing students to tailor their academic journey according to individual interests. Research plays a pivotal role at Calgary, as both students and faculty engage in solving real-world challenges across diverse domains.

• Course to consider: MSc in Mathematical Finance
• Entry requirements: Applicants must have a four-year degree to pursue the master’s course and showcase English language proficiency.

9. University of Victoria

The University of Victoria has a dedicated Department of Mathematics that integrates theoretical foundations with modern computational tools to offer high-quality education. Its programmes have gained international recognition for academic rigour and innovation. The faculty at Victoria fosters a supportive learning environment while delivering challenging and up-to-date curricula.

The university is also notable for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, with collaborations across engineering, genomics, medicine, and more, leading to impactful breakthroughs. Students benefit from professional development workshops aimed at improving employability post-graduation.

• Course to consider: Master of Science in Mathematics
• Entry requirements: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university and showcase proficiency in the English language.

10. Queen’s University at Kingston

Queen’s University at Kingston is home to the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, a hub of excellence where teaching, research, and learning intersect to provide a rich academic experience. Approximately 30 permanent faculty members and 15 contributors from other departments support a diverse curriculum spanning pure and applied mathematics.

Students may pursue undergraduate and postgraduate degrees tailored to individual interests, with the opportunity to specialise in interdisciplinary fields such as Mathematics and Biology, Mathematics and Computer Science, and Mathematics and Physics. Many programmes incorporate internships, providing valuable industry exposure during academic study.

• Course to consider: MSc in Mathematics and Statistics
• Entry requirements: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university and showcase proficiency in the English language.

Study Mathematics in Canada

If you are interested in studying at one of the best mathematics universities in Canada, book a free consultation to learn more about the application process and other relevant information.