About the Department of Mathematics & Statistics
Welcome to the Department of Mathematics and Statistics in the College of Computational, Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the University of Guelph.
From bioinformatics to quantum computing, our faculty members are doing cutting-edge, multidisciplinary research to advance our knowledge of mathematics and statistics, and their applications to the real-world. Our department features 29 research and teaching faculty, over 100 students in our undergraduate program, more than 50 students in graduate programs, award-winning researchers, and teaching excellence.
Our Programs
We’re proud to offer both undergraduate and graduate degree programs with engaging teaching methodologies so that our students are prepared for dynamic careers in the mathematical sciences and related fields.
Explore our Undergraduate and Graduate Programs.
Our History
Mathematics has been taught in some form at the University of Guelph dating back to the early days of Ontario Agricultural College in the late 1800s. The mathematics taught then was much more rudimentary in nature than what U of G is known for today, with a focus on functional mathematics, such as accounting and finance and math for agricultural practices. The teachings were also geared towards improving basic English and Mathematics skills, as many students were from a rural, farm-focused background.
Mathematics courses and teachings became more sophisticated at the University as time went on, with the introduction of calculus in 1925. Throughout the 20th century, the importance of mathematics and statistics has continued to grow at the University, underpinning much of U of G’s research. The Mathematics & Statistics Department teaches thousands of students every year across the University.
Beginning in 2024, the University introduced a dedicated Bachelor of Mathematics, formerly the Bachelor of Science with a Mathematical Science major.
Explore Math and Stats
Research Opportunities
Mathematical science majors at our university engage in impactful research across various mathematical and statistical disciplines.
Supermath Day
Supermath Day is an engaging event that celebrates mathematics through interactive workshops and activities.
Kangaroo Contest
At the University of Guelph, our dedicated Kangaroo Contest team drives impactful mathematical advancements.
Dr. Rajesh Pereira
Chair, Department of Mathematics and Statistics
Dr. Rajesh Pereira is the Department Chair for Mathematics & Statistics at the University of Guelph for a five-year term effective May 1, 2024. Previously, Pereira served as interim chair from 2022 to 2024. Pereira aims to explore creative ways to improve the management of increased class sizes, strengthen the department’s research efforts and hire new faculty, and align with IEDI principles on campus.
Life at Guelph
I worked at the University of Guelph for several years before deciding to pursue an undergraduate degree. Transferring credits from my college diploma was seamless. Thanks to Dr. Lorna Deeth, I discovered my passion for statistics and worked as an Undergraduate Research Assistant last summer where I developed a software with real-world applications in epidemic simulations. Guelph also offers great opportunities for student involvement and I’ve been engaged as both a Teaching Assistant and the president of the Math & Stat Club. I've always felt at home in this university and department.
