Math Camp

Math Camp is designed to prepare social science graduate students for advanced courses in statistical methodology. Offered each year before autumn quarter classes begin, Math Camp is an intensive one-week introduction to fundamental concepts of mathematics and probability. Students need not have prior exposure to this material but should have basic math skills through high school algebra. The aim is to provide students with the conceptual foundation, basic tools, and confidence necessary to successfully undertake future study of statistics in the social sciences. Key concepts are presented in lecture, and students have an opportunity to work through problem sets with the assistance of a TA. Lecture notes and web materials are publicly available, so students may refresh their memories of key concepts and tools before embarking on CSSS courses.

“...Math Camp was fantastic. The instructors did such a good job and everything was very well coordinated. The whole experience was extremely positive.”

Who should attend Math Camp?

Graduate students interested in pursuing a quantitatively oriented-research career. The Math Camp curriculum is particularly appropriate for students in the early years of study in social science departments with CSSS tracks.

What does Math Camp Cover?

Algebra, Functions, Matrix Algebra, Calculus, Probability Distributions, Introduction to Statistics & Maximum Likelihood.

Click here to view a sample syllabus.

When and Where?

The week-long camp is typically offered two weeks prior to the start of the Autumn Quarter on the University of Washington Campus.

May be offered hybrid both on campus or via Zoom

Who Teaches Math Camp?

Math Camp is taught by two knowledgeable UW graduate students with experience teaching the subject matter. 

How Do I register?

Applications will be accepted from May until September 1, 2026 or until class is filled. Space is limited; priority is given to students enrolled in departments with a CSSS track, and to early applicants. There will not be a registration fee for Math Camp this year.

When registration opens in Spring Quarter, please complete the online registration form. 

Disability Accommodations

To request disability accommodation, contact the Disability Services Office at: 206.543.6450 (voice), 206.543.6452 (TTY), 206.685.7264 (fax), or email at dso@u.washington.edu. The University of Washington makes every effort to honor disability accommodation requests. Requests can be responded to most effectively if received as far in advance of the event as possible, preferably at least 10 days.

Read about our most recent offering:

Math Camp Eases the Transition Back to School for Graduate Students

Have more questions about Math Camp?

Email csss@uw.edu