Our world is changing, and we must evolve with it.
The world continues to face multiple, compounding major crises that cut across society, health, the environment, technology and the economy.
Waterloo is at the forefront of research and the development of applied solutions for these crises and the all the opportunities the future holds for society at large.
Comprehensive and interdisciplinary
Rigorous and deep inquiry is a fundamental pillar and a distinguishing endeavour at Waterloo. We celebrate the importance of curiosity-driven research and discovery. We do not shy away from unconventional or emerging disciplines or subjects. In fact, that is where we thrive and lead.
![Two students work together on a laptop](/future-graduate-students/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/uploads/images/why-waterloo-1-700x650.png?itok=sLwEKV8G)
Experiential and work-integrated learning
Building on Waterloo’s tradition and strength in experiential learning, students in graduate programs are encouraged to think beyond the classroom, through engagement in co-op and other work-integrated learning opportunities. We continue to be world leaders in experience-driven learning.
![A student works in a lab with a pipette and a water sample](/future-graduate-students/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/uploads/images/why-waterloo-2-700x650.png?itok=CTSPdXsd)
World-class innovation and entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurial researchers and students come to Waterloo because of our distinctive innovation ecosystem. We encourage entrepreneurs by opening pathways from research to commercialization through incubators, corporate partnerships and a unique intellectual property policy that lets creators own what they invent.
![Two students work at a white board](/future-graduate-students/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/uploads/images/why-waterloo-3-700x650.png?itok=sW5nz0-1)
The University of Waterloo defied tradition when it was founded in 1957.
We boldly advanced an educational experience that integrates academic and research excellence with work experience. In our always changing world, we must continue to be bold and unconventional as we help shape a better future for humanity and the planet.
Why pursue graduate studies at Waterloo?
Top-ranked and world-class
Waterloo is a top-ranked, world-class institution of higher learning and research, attracting thousands of graduate students from across Canada and around the world each year.