Mathematics & Statistics Gateway

Mathematics and Statistics study patterns underlying diverse phenomena such as the weather, human and animal populations, stock markets, the form of a molecule, or the structure of the space and the time.

Using mathematics we discover subtle and sometimes unexpected features of these phenomena, as well develop ways to predict their behaviour which is an extremely important component of our understanding of the world and the space that surrounds us.

Statistics can help us make sense of large data sets and complex systems in areas such as astronomy, genomics, social networks, climate simulation, and medicine. Statisticians examine the patterns which arise in data with the goal of distinguishing true patterns from chance effects.

The Mathematics and Statistics I program introduces students to the foundational tools and ideas of mathematics leading into our degree programs.

WHY Mathematics & Statistics At McMaster?

Mathematics and Statistics at McMaster emphasizes a student-centered approach to teaching by offering a curriculum that is rich with opportunities for cooperative education, experiential learning, and undergraduate research. Students who take courses in mathematics and statistics enjoy the following aspects of our curriculum:

• Broad-based, interdisciplinary courses
• Courses covering numerous areas in theoretical and applied mathematics
• Lectures by world’s recognized leaders in research and teaching
• Program flexibility (a minor in any area can be declared with math degree)
• New specialization in Honours Actuarial & Financial Mathematics
• Courses in applied mathematics and statistics including training in industry-recognized software
• A dynamic undergraduate Math & Stats Society
• Opportunities for paid undergraduate summer research with faculty members
  Paid and volunteer teaching opportunities through the Math Help Centre and Outreach Program
• Students also have the opportunity to conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty member in their final year as part of an Honours thesis.

James Stewart Centre for Mathematics

The Department of Mathematics & Statistics is housed in the James Stewart Centre for Mathematics. Located in Hamilton Hall, the Centre has been designed to integrate teaching, research and outreach environments. Award-winning renovation of this historic building retained the classic exterior and, at the same time, completely modernized and vertically integrated its interior, to facilitate dynamic interactions between undergraduate students, graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and faculty.

The Math Help Centre provide friendly and active academic and social environments. Numerous blackboards, filled with math calculations and diagrams, line the walls of the generous building. The hallways are set up with study tables to encourage undergraduates to work together with their peers and teaching assistants. The proximity of faculty offices gives students an opportunity to consult with their instructors both during and outside of office hours.