Why choose Mathematics at Dal?

Studying mathematics provides a solid base for every scientific field. It's not just the numeracy you learn here that's applicable to so many intellectual pursuits. Our classes teach you how to think.

That's what mathematicians do. We learn to think by solving problems. Math majors practice problem solving constantly, says computer scientist Sageev Oore, one of our alumni. You learn how to make airtight arguments and look for every possible loophole in an argument.

Because our program is small, professors end up knowing most of their students, graduate students interact with honours students and this community atmosphere often leads to chances to work on special projects.

“I think we can pride ourselves on the fact that we have a number of very good teachers in the department,” says Alan Coley, a university research professor of mathematics.

Mathematics graduates are in demand in many professions, from banking and cryptography to management and teaching. We offer certificates in actuarial and financial mathematics as well as one in applied and computational mathematics – both useful if you want to apply your mathematical skills professionally after graduation.

Program Details

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts

Program Options

Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA)

  • Concentration (3 years)
  • Major/double major (4 years)
  • Honours/combined honours (4 years)
  • Co-op/work tern (4.5 years)

Prerequisites

High School courses:

  • English
  • Pre-Calculus or Calculus
  • 3 additional university preparatory courses 

See Admissions Requirements for more information

Program Dates

  • June 8, registration begins for new high school students
  • September 5, classes begin, fall term
  • December 5, exams begin
  • See other important dates.

Class Size

  • First year classes range from 100-200 students.
  • Fast track first-year calculus class averages 30 students.
  • Upper-level classes have between 10-30 students.

Tuition Fees

Use our Fee Calculator to estimate the cost of a full year at Dalhousie.

Residence & Housing

Whether you're applying to one of our residence halls or you’re looking for help with an off-campus apartment search, Dalhousie’s Residence and Housing services can help.   

Housing options

  • Meal plans
  • Dorm-style traditional residences
  • Apartment-style, non-traditional
  • Off-campus housing

Application Deadline

  • March 15: deadline for scholarship consideration for fall semester
  • April 1: for international applicants
  • June 1: for Canadian and American applicants
  • August 15: Dalhousie students returning to the same program or visiting students
  • See the full list of application deadlines for all programs here.