Harness the power of geographic data.
Over 80% of the world’s information has a location component to it. Geomatics combines computer science with geographic and environmental data analysis to devise data-driven solutions to complex problems. Waterloo is a leader in this field, ranking #1 in Canada for remote sensing (Academic Ranking of World Universities 2024).
Learn to use tools such as remote sensing, computer mapping, geographic information systems (GIS), and GPS to analyze geographic data, understand spatial data, and make meaningful decisions. At the same time, you’ll also learn the fundamentals of software design from Waterloo’s computer science experts and have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and gain paid work experience in co-op.
Once you graduate, you’ll find no end of opportunities to put your skills to work. Help governments prepare for natural hazards such as floods. Track crime rates or the spread of disease. Map demographics for businesses, or develop transportation routes for municipalities. In this rapidly growing field, our grads are in high demand!
Faculty:
Faculty of Environment
Degree:
Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Geomatics
Available as a co-op program?
Yes
Available as a regular program?
Yes
Available as a minor?
No
Get career-relevant skills. Because we’ll train you on the advanced industry tools and techniques such as remote sensing, drones, and global positioning receivers, you’re ready to make an impact from day one of your career.
Gain valuable computing skills. Take additional courses at Waterloo’s world-class Cheriton School of Computer Science, and you can include a Computing minor as part of your degree.
Co-op = relevant paid work experience
In the world's leading co-op program, you'll 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
- Research intern, École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (Switzerland)
- Education consultant
- GIS data management student
- Map design support
- Junior GIS assistant
- Geomatics plan technician
Co-op work-study sequence
Starting in second 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.
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Off |
| Second | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Third | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fourth | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Fifth | Co-op | Study | - |
Your first work term will be halfway through second year (January to April 2028).
Admission requirements
Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including
- Any Grade 12 U English (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Any Grade 12 U Mathematics course (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
Admission average: High 70s
Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.
How to apply
Apply directly to this program on your application.
Success starts at Waterloo
As home to Canada's largest faculty of environment and the world's leading co-op program, Waterloo is the only place where you can test drive up to five careers before you graduate.
*University of Waterloo Key Performance Indicators 2024
**for social science programs, which include programs within the Faculty of Environment
Get information about programs, applying, and more!
Contact us
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Please contact Megan Muir, our Faculty of Environment recruitment co-ordinator who can answer any questions you have.
From the Missing Manual
Visit our Missing Manual website for tips and advice from Waterloo students and staff. Topics include
A map to your future: Geomatics at Waterloo
Though you may not realize it, most of us use geospatial data produced by geomatics technologies everyday. Aujas graduated from the Geomatics program, here's his story,.
Drone driver
Beyond the skills he learned in the classroom, Pedro also gained real-world experience in the field, working across all three levels of government, in sectors spanning telecommunications, transportation, and agriculture.
Finding a fit in Geomatics
In high school Andrea was computer savvy, artistic, and analytical. She wanted to find a university program that would allow her to be all of those at the same time.