Take the future of building design and construction to new heights
Calling all creative problem solvers! As an Architectural Engineering student, you’ll learn how to forge impressive design, collaboration, and communication skills with strong analytical capabilities and technical applications needed for building design and operation.
You’ll come away knowing how to discuss the aesthetic design of building projects with architects while still ensuring all systems are functional, secure, and safe: lighting, heat, plumbing, structural systems, ventilation, and more.
Only a handful of schools across North America offer this in-demand engineering program that addresses the need for engineers skilled in the whole scope of a building's life cycle. You’ll explore the science of building design by combining the latest in engineering and architectural concepts.
Learn how to assess, repair, and refurbish existing buildings to give them a smaller carbon footprint. There’s an emphasis on green building technology and sustainability for new builds too.
While covering the science and engineering that goes into good building design, you’ll learn how to communicate with precision and clarity – whether written, graphic or oral – and speak the language of engineers and architects.
Plus, get a tonne of project groupwork under your belt from day one. You’ll take one studio design course each term throughout your degree and in third year, you’ll study at our world-class School of Architecture in Cambridge, Ontario. It will deepen your understanding of aesthetics, culture, and other design elements.
With your big picture knowledge and stellar communication skills, you’ll be on the fast track to leadership in the construction industry.
Faculty:
Faculty of Engineering
Degree:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Architectural Engineering
Available as a co-op program?
Co-op only
Available as a regular program
No
Available as a minor?
No
Collaborate with architects. You'll spend third year at our School of Architecture in Cambridge, Ontario, working and connecting with talented Architecture students and gaining expertise in design.
Explore the science of design. Gain the technical know-how of an engineer while developing design skills through hands-on modelling and prototyping studio courses each term.
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
- Architectural Engineering/BIM Consultant
- Building Envelope/Structural Technician
- Building Science Restoration Project Coordinator
- Design and Energy Performance Specialist
- Energy Sustainability Engineering Assistant
- Jr. Conservation Management Coordinator
- Microclimate Coordinator
- Residential Engineering Designer
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.
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Second | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Third | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Fourth | Co-op | Study | Study |
| Fifth | Co-op | Study | - |
Your first work term will be halfway through first year (January to April 2026).
From Waterloo to Denmark: Discover how Serena used international co-op opportunities to build a global architectural resume. Read her story here.
Admissions 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)
Admission averages: Individual selection from the mid- to high 80s
The Admission Information Form is required for admission.
Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.
How to apply
Apply directly to this program on your application.
Join our monthly newsletter for tips such as choosing a university program, life at Waterloo, and finances.
Ask a Faculty of Engineering student about their program, classes, getting involved on campus, and more!
Learn more
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Please contact the Faculty of Engineering which can answer any questions you have.