Electrical and Computer Engineering (Quantum Information) - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Mike and Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre

The Mike and Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre, home to the Institute for Quantum Computing and the Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, located on Waterloo's main campus.

Conduct research and generate new knowledge to shape the future while learning about and engaging in world-leading research at the cutting edge of quantum information with the PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering Collaborative Quantum Information program.

Electrical and Computer Engineering is at the core of almost everything – through coursework, original research and a thesis, you’ll explore creative and innovative solutions for the everyday needs of society spanning from communications to energy and technology.

In collaboration with the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC), this program offers unique opportunities to engage in world-leading research in quantum information. Along with developing expertise in your area of electrical and computer engineering research, you’ll receive a strong and broad foundation in quantum information science through a wide range of advanced research projects and advanced courses on the foundations, applications and implementation of quantum information processing.

You’ll have the opportunity to work in our world-class research labs and centres, establish connections with our partners in industry, and access a suite of competitive funding opportunities, preparing you for a career in academia, leading engineering firms, corporations or government agencies.

Program overview

Department/School: Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April), Spring (May - August)
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Collaborative, Doctoral, Research
Length of program: 48 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Thesis

Application deadlines

  • February 1 (for admission in September)
  • June 1 (for admission in January of the following year)
  • October 1 (for admission in May of the following year)

Supervisors

Admission requirements

  • Admission to the program is based upon the student's academic record and evidence of ability to pursue independent research.
  • Normally an overall standing equivalent to 80% in either a relevant thesis-based Master's degree or a University of Waterloo Master of Engineering (MEng) degree that includes a completed ECE 699 Master of Engineering Project course.
  • At the time of admission, each student must have a faculty supervisor who has endorsed the recommendation for admission.

Degree requirements

Application materials

  • Resume

  • Supplementary information form (SIF)
    • The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
  • Transcript(s)

  • References
    • Three references are required; at least two from academic sources 
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 80 (writing 22, speaking 20, reading 20, listening 18), IELTS 6.5 (writing 6.0, speaking 6.0)

Tuition and fees