A summer camp that takes math from theory to application

Gazette
STEM
Science
Alumni
Math camp students showcasing their projects.
A uOttawa math camp team presents their project on “Russian Dolls”. The concept combines probability theory and geometry.
The University of Ottawa’s summer math camp is the largest and most diverse of the 23 math camps sponsored by the Canadian Mathematical Society (CMS). Launched in 1999, our bilingual (English and French) summer camp was the first math camp backed by the CMS.

And since its inception, it has welcomed 1024 participants, many of whom are top competitors in national math competitions, such as Cayley and Opti-Math.  

A unique and innovative camp 

What sets our math camp apart is the presence of industry experts who present workshops on the practical applications of mathematical concepts.  

Participants apply their knowledge of mathematical concepts to solve a variety of problems, including projects involving GPS applications, information security, and even magnetic resonance imaging in medicine. Moreover, solving math problems as a team promotes collaboration and develops essential social skills.  

Each cohort of campers also brings its unique spin to camp. This year’s cohort brought a very wide range of interests, scientific knowledge, and even artistic skills to the table. 

Sometimes, these campers from across Canada find themselves taking a very specific path after their camp experience: many eventually enrol in our Faculty of Science or Faculty of Engineering. 

Three student showcasing their math project.
The project “Wheel of life” applies math, physics and civil engineering theories.
STEM

“Our initiatives to encourage young women to participate have increased their presence in our science programs.”

Professor Joseph  Khoury

— Department of Mathematics and Statistics

The project “Wheel of life” applies math, physics and civil engineering theories.

Young scientific minds encouraging the next generation 

The success of our math camp rests on the efforts of a host of individuals and groups. Participants who stay in residence are guided by uOttawa alumni, who give them advice during evening events. Volunteers, who are often students enrolled in our Department of Mathematics and Statistics, lead the campers in discovering the National Capital’s museums and events. Professors from the department give the daily presentations.  

Supporting this camp comes naturally to our professors, students, and alumni, as it does to our industry partners. 

Students in classroom listening to presentation.

A partnership between uOttawa and the Canadian Mathematical Society 

There is a long history of cooperation between uOttawa’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics and the Canadian Mathematical Society. The close ties between the two organizations are partly due to the fact that former and current members of the Department, including Graham Wright, Termeh Kousha and Joseph Khoury, have served in leadership positions in the CMS.