Mathematics and Statistics

In this combined degree, you’ll study how to use data to predict future outcomes.

Potential careers

What can you do with a mathematics and statistic degree? Here are a few jobs that relate to the program:

accountant
actuary
big data analyst
biostatistician
bioinformatician
budget analyst
business metrics analyst
claims adjuster
climatologist
control statistician
cybersecurity specialist
cryptographer
database administrator
data manager
data Scientist
economist
environmental scientist
ecologist
financial analyst
financial Trader
insurance underwriter
high school or middle school teacher
logistics specialist
market Analyst
marketing consultant
mathematical modeller
numerical analyst
operations research analyst
quantitative analyst
robotics analyst
science writer
software developer
sports analytics specialist
survey researcher
systems operation analyst
statistician
scientific computing and computer simulations expert
university professor or college instructor

Some of these roles may require post-graduate studies or training.

Find a career that fits you

Explore your career options at an appointment with a career educator.
Attend career development workshops as you search for work.
Take part in the Career Clarity program to generate career ideas and plan your next steps.

Experience & connections

Opportunities in the mathematics and statistics program

With the Co-op Program you can alternate study with paid work.

Opportunities outside your program

With a work study position you can develop skills during your study term.
Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community while you build skills.

Networks you can connect to

Here are a few professional associations related to mathematics and statistics:

Hands-on learning opportunities

These courses in the mathematics and statistics program offer extensive hands-on learning.

Co-op

Co-op work terms
Alternate academic study with paid work terms to gain workplace experience

Course-based

Math 322 - Combinatorial designs
Learn techniques and algorithms useful in scheduling applications, communications and experimental design

MATH 348 - Numerical Methods
Learn the basics of numerical methods and numerical approximations

MATH 41 - Applied Algebra
Learn the mathematics of error-correcting codes and cryptography

MATH 423 – Graph Theory
Learn about networks and optimization algorithms in graphs and networks

Math 424 - Structural Graph Theory
Learn about algorithmic techniques for graphs and networks

MATH 447 - Nonlinear Programming
Learn advanced techniques for solving nonlinear optimization problems in engineering and data science

MATH 475 - Topics in Math Biology
Develop and use mathematical models for biological and ecological systems

STAT 354 - Sampling Techniques
Plan and conduct a sample survey

STAT 453 - The Design and Analysis of Experiments
Design, perform, collect data for and analyze a scientific experiment

STAT 454 - Topics in Applied Statistics
Learn topics in applied statistics through projects and advanced statistical computing

STAT 457 - Time Series Analysis
Use forecasting models for time series of financial and econometric data

STAT 459 - Survival Analysis
Develop statistical models for lifetime data with applications in other fields

STAT 460 – Bayesian Statistics
Learn a powerful method used for statistical data analysis and parameter inference

STAT 464 – Statistical Computing
Learn and use the most common computing tools and methods used in statistics

Research project

MATH 379 - Nonlinear Dynamical Systems and Chaos
Research and present a project on dynamic systems

MATH 377 - Mathematical Modelling
Research and present a project on using mathematics to depict and understand physical, biological or social systems

MATH 449 - Scientific Computing
Research and present a project on the use of advanced numerical methods to solve real world problems

MATH 477 - Stochastic Financial Modelling
Research and present a project on financial models

MATH 498 - Seminar and Independent Project
Pursue an independent project, prepare a written report and present a seminar

STAT 498 - Seminar and Independent Project
Pursue an independent project, prepare a written report and give a talk in a statistics seminar

Professional and technical skill development

MATH 248 - Computer Assisted Mathematics
Learn the management and visualization of data using the Python programming language

STAT 123 - Data Science
Develop computational and inferential thinking skills to use data to make good decisions

STAT 321 - Data Management and Presentation
Learn how to manage and present data

Work experience

Work experience work terms
Take part in a modified co-op program requiring one or two work experiences

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Undergraduate Student Research Awards
Faculty of Science Undergraduate Research Awards (SURA)
Jamie Cassels Undergraduate Research Awards
Get paid to work on a research project with a professor

G-B Kennedy Math and Stats Assistance Centre
Work as a grader or tutor.

These courses are not always offered as described.

What you'll learn

Every student at UVic builds skills all employers look for. At UVic Co-op & Career we call these "competencies". This is what you’ll learn in the mathematics and statistics program.

Logic and critical thinking

work with abstract reasoning and be able to make ideas precise by formulating them mathematically or statistically
analyze, test, and interpret technical arguments, and form independent judgements

Problem solving

use mathematics and statistics to help guide possible lines of inquiry
solve complex problems by dividing them into simpler sub-problems
gather and organize relevant qualitative and quantitative information
sharpen or focus mathematical or statistical questions as a problem-solving strategy
identify and assess methods of analysis
construct abstract models using mathematical and statistical tools
use computers and software
engage your creativity in the quest for novel solutions
document problem-solving steps and reliably certify the validity of your methods and results
interpret and evaluate

Communication

work effectively in a multi-disciplinary environment
accept comments and feedback, and learn from them
explain mathematical or statistical concepts to non-experts
justify choices made during problem solving and interpretation of results
present the results and assessment of a problem-solving strategy
clearly communicate logical arguments to a range of audiences

Mathematical, statistical and numerical literacy

recognize the value of mathematical and statistical thinking, training and approach to problem solving
be familiar with how mathematics or statistics helps accurately explain abstract or physical phenomena
recognize and appreciate the connections between theory and applications
read mathematical and statistical literature, including survey articles, scholarly books, and online sources
be able to independently expand your mathematical or statistical expertise

What's next?

To explore more visit the mathematics and statistics site. For degree planning contact your adviser for help.