Software Engineering Degree

Two Software Engineering students work on a project together

Because today, even your fridge is full of software

Whether you want to create a VR training program for surgeons, the next innovative OS, or tomorrow’s fleet of autonomous vehicles, software engineers have endless career options in today’s tech-enabled world.

At Waterloo, you won’t just write code. You’ll also analyze software architecture, apply algorithms, understand digital hardware systems, and design human/ computer interfaces. Plus, you’ll learn how to work in teams and manage projects, all while being taught within one of the best universities in the world for software engineering (ranked 19th in the world for research performance, EduRank 2023).

Then, during your co-op, you’ll put those skills to work at leading companies or hot new startups. When you graduate, you’ll be ready to create reliable, affordable, and faster software for all kinds of different purposes.

What courses will you take in Software Engineering?

First-year courses

In your first year, you’ll take a mix of foundational courses in computer engineering, computer science, and math. After first year, most of your classes will be Software Engineering courses covering topics such as algorithms, operating systems, computer networks, software design and architecture, system requirements, software testing and quality assurance, and several advanced technical electives.

September to December

  • CS 137 – Programming Principles
  • CHE 102 – Chemistry for Engineers
  • MATH 115 – Linear Algebra for Engineering
  • MATH 117 – Calculus 1 for Engineering
  • MATH 135 – Algebra for Honours Mathematics
  • SE 101 – Introductions to Methods of Software Engineering

January to April

  • CS 138 – Introduction to Data Abstraction and Implementation
  • ECE 124 – Digital Circuits and Systems
  • ECE 140 – Linear Circuits
  • MATH 119 – Calculus 2 for Engineering
  • SE 102 – Seminar
  • One elective

This is a sample schedule. Courses are subject to change.

After first year

Sample upper-year courses

SE 212 – Logic and Computation
SE 464 – Software Design and Architectures
SE 350 – Operating Systems
SE 465 – Software Testing and Quality Assurance

Specialize in upper years to focus your studies.

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Business
  • Computational Fine Art
  • Human-Computer Interaction

Or choose one of the options available to all engineering students.

Why Waterloo Engineering?

Remote video URL

Faculty:
Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Mathematics

Degree:
Bachelor of Software Engineering

Available as a co-op program?
Yes

Available as a regular program?
No

Available as a minor?
No

Dream big. Use computer programming and engineering problem-solving to create usable, reliable, and efficient software. Apply your skills during co-op terms at some of the biggest tech companies in Canada and Silicon Valley, or create your own tech start-up.

Study in a high-tech hub. The Waterloo region is home to Google, Shopify, and more than 1,500 other technology companies, providing lots of co-op and career opportunities.

Co-op = relevant paid work experience

Waterloo's co-op program, the largest in North America, is an amazing way to explore potential careers, learn to interview for jobs, graduate with up to two years of valuable experience — and make money!

Sample co-op job titles

  • Tools and automation engineering intern
  • Data scientist
  • Mobile developer
  • Software developer
  • iOS developer
  • Production engineering
  • Algorithms engineering

Co-op work-study sequence

Starting in first year, you'll normally alternate between school and work every four months, integrating your classroom learning with real-world experience. You can return to the same employer for a couple of work terms to gain greater knowledge and responsibility or work for different employers to get a broad range of experience.

There are two options for co-op sequences. Your first work term will be at the end of first year (May to August 2026). You will automatically be placed in sequence one, but you can request to change your sequence in your upper years.

Sequence one

Year September to December (Fall) January to April (Winter) May to August (Spring)
First Study Study Co-op
Second Study Co-op Study
Third Co-op Study Co-op
Fourth Study Co-op Study
Fifth Co-op Study -

Sequence two

Year September to December (Fall) January to April (Winter) May to August (Spring)
First Study Study Co-op
Second Study Co-op Study
Third Co-op Study Co-op
Fourth Study Co-op Co-op
Fifth Study Study -

Learn more about co-op →

What can you do with a Software Engineering degree?

Graduates often pursue careers in software engineering and development, consulting, and more. They commonly work for financial institutions, technology companies, and software corporations.

Recent graduates

  • Software Engineer — Microsoft
  • Software Development Engineer — Amazon
  • Software Developer — Electronic Arts (Canada)
  • Software Engineer — Google
  • Innovation Specialist — Telus
  • Web Development Engineer — Amazon
  • Senior Software Engineer — Uber Technologies

Possible professional designation

Learn about the future of careers in engineering.

Tuition fees for Engineering programs

First-year tuition

Type of fees Tuition (8 months of school)
Domestic (Ontario residents) $18,000
Domestic (Out of province students) $19,000
International (visa students) $73,000
     
  • Estimated amounts listed include incidental fees. Fees based on 2024-25 tuition rates.
  • Visit our financing page to learn about scholarships, estimate your total expenses, and see how co-op can help pay for your education.

Student life in Engineering

Student design teams

Have fun and develop hands-on experience through one or more of our 35+ student-led design teams!

Design teams include rocketry, concrete canoe, small airplanes, robotics, solar car, submarine racing, autonomous vehicle, Engineers Without Borders, and more.

Engineering Society (EngSoc)

EngSoc is run by students and provides social and academic events and services to make your experience as a Waterloo Engineering student the best it can be.

Benefit from mentoring for first-year students or meet other students through an annual conference, semi-formal, career fair, charity events, community outreach, and much more!

Women in Engineering

Women in Engineering (WiE) supports women and non-binary engineering students and alumni, while encouraging the next generation to pursue a future career in engineering

Any student is also welcome to join Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (WiSTEM), a student-run club that promotes equality in STEM through skills workshops, discussions, and guest speakers.

Campus-wide activities

Our campus is packed with opportunities to get involved – no matter how unique your interests.

Between our 200+ student-run clubs, sports and recreation opportunities, student government, and events, student life at Waterloo has something for everyone.

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)

Experience in developing well-structured, modular programs is required.

Grade 11 U Introduction to Computer Science and Grade 12 U Computer Science are recommended as helpful background for the program.

Admission averages: Individual selection from the low to mid-90s

Not studying in Ontario?

Search our admission requirements.

How to apply

Apply directly to this program on your application.

The Admission Information Form (AIF) and online video interview are required for admission to Software Engineering and for Faculty of Engineering scholarships. We'll email you detailed instructions once we receive your application.

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Ask a Faculty of Engineering student about their program, classes, getting involved on campus, and more!

 Learn more

Headshot of Kelsey Richardson

Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?

Please contact Kelsey Richardson, our Faculty of Engineering recruitment co-ordinator who can answer any questions you have.

You can also visit our Software Engineering program website.