Management Science (Co-op) - Master of Management Science (MMSc)

Pearl Sullivan Engineering Building

Pearl Sullivan Engineering (PSE) Building on Waterloo's East Campus.

Gain knowledge and master skills ranging from analytics and optimization to information systems and behavioural sciences with the Master of Management Science Co-op program.

This coursework-based program is self-funded. It will provide you with real-world hands-on experience through a co-op work placement. During your co-op work placement, you'll get the experience you need to advance your career and give you a competitive edge in the job market. 

You’ll learn traditional skills in supply chain management and optimization. Simultaneously, you'll be exposed to cutting-edge research in human computer interaction, energy management, and innovation entrepreneurship. The program will prepare you to achieve your career goals in private industry, government, academia and beyond.  

Program highlights

  • Real-world hands-on experience with paid co-op placements to give you a competitive edge.
  • Coursework-based – no thesis required.  

Program overview

Department/School:Management Science and Engineering
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December)
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Co-operative, Master's, Professional
Length of program: 20 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time
Study option(s): Coursework

Application deadlines

  • March 1 (for admission in September)
  • Note: Application deadline was extended from February 1, 2026 to March 1, 2026

Admission requirements

  • The Department of Management Sciences requires either
    • (i) a 75% overall standing in the last two years, or equivalent, in a relevant four-year honours bachelor's degree or equivalent, or
    • (ii) a 75% overall standing or equivalent, in a relevant four-year honours bachelor's degree or equivalent, as the minimum requirement for admission to a master's program for applicants educated at a Canadian institution.
  • A 75% overall standing or equivalent, in a relevant four-year honours bachelor's degree or equivalent is the minimum requirement for admission to a master's program for applicants educated outside of Canada.
  • Background in quantitative methods (e.g., Calculus, Linear Algebra, Probability and Statistics).
  • All applicants must submit a "Statement of Purpose" - a one page statement addressing their academic background and future goals.
  • Applicants who fall slightly below the minimum academic requirements may be considered for admission as transitional or probationary students.

Degree requirements

  • Review the degree requirements on the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree.

Application materials

  • Resume
  • Statement of interest
    • Uploaded as a supporting document in the online application. Review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion.
    • Provide a statement of purpose addressing your academic background, future goals, and how it pertains to this Management Sciences program.
  • Program-specific questions (PSQ)
    • These are questions specific to the program you’re applying to. They can be viewed once you’ve started an application and are completed through a form in the online application.
  • Transcript(s)
  • References
    • Two references are required, academic (preferred) or professional.
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 4.5 (writing 5, speaking 5), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5)

Tuition and fees