Design systems measured in billionths of a metre
Join us to be a technology rebel, break convention, and create disruptive novel ideas for a bold new scientific frontier!
Nanotechnology Engineering is the foundation of future technology. It saves lives, mitigates climate change, is the pillar of national security, enables AI and quantum computing, powers the global economy, and enhances our quality of life. This discipline has been used to develop COVID mRNA vaccines and pharmaceuticals, biomedical technologies, and create high-performance integrated circuits. It also enhances sustainable development and combats the climate crisis by enabling electrification.
Our program is the first accredited nanotechnology program in Canada and features a dedicated clean room with multimillion-dollar cutting-edge equipment for Nanotechnology Engineering students. You’ll use principles from biology, chemistry, electronics, and quantum physics to create materials and machines far too small to see with the naked eye.
You’ll gain extensive experience in your lab courses and through a range of paid co-op opportunities. When you graduate you'll be well positioned to benefit from the billions of dollars of planned investment in the global nanotechnology sector that enables advanced computing, innovative health care systems, and tackling climate change through renewable energy production and storage.
Program highlights
Tiny but mighty! Use concepts from biology, chemistry, electronics, and quantum physics to design systems measured in billionths of a metre in the $160-million Mike and Ophelia Lazardis Quantum-Nano Centre, a facility packed with the very latest nano-fabrication tools in ultra-sterile cleanrooms.
Meet industry leaders. Make time in your schedule for the annual Waterloo Undergraduate Nanotechnology Conference, where you’ll meet industry leaders, startup founders, and top researchers.
- Offered as a co-op program only
- Graduate with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nanotechnology Engineering
- Offered by the Faculty of Engineering
What is Nanotechnology Engineering?
Nanotechnology Engineering at Waterloo
View more videos, including a tour of our labs.
What will you learn?
During your first year, you'll take a mix of foundational engineering and math courses. In upper years, you'll be able to select topics that interest you the most from our four core areas: nano-engineering materials, nano-electronics, nano-instrumentation, and nano-biosystems.
Learn more about the courses you'll take for your Nanotechnology Engineering degree and the facilities you'll have access to.
Get tips from Waterloo students
Join our monthly newsletter for tips such as choosing a university program, life at Waterloo, and finances.
Questions? Ask a student!
Ask a Faculty of Engineering student about their program, classes, getting involved on campus, and more!
Admission requirements
Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including
- Advanced Functions (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Calculus and Vectors (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Chemistry (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Physics (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- English (ENG4U) (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
Admission averages: Individual selection from the mid- to high 80s
Complete the Admission Information Form once you've applied.
Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.
How to apply
Apply directly to this program on your application.
Related programs
Learn more
- Visit our Nanotechnology Engineering program website.
