Computer Engineering degree

Two students building a project in an engineering workshop at the University of Waterloo

Why choose? Develop software savvy and hardware know-how.

Want to design a brain stimulator to combat symptoms of Parkinson's disease? Develop software to protect companies from cyber attacks? Create the next groundbreaking gaming platform?

As an expert in computer hardware-software interactions you will be ready for a career working in cutting-edge technologies.

Between labs and lectures, you'll gain experience with all aspects of computers, from chips and wiring to software, networks, and communications. You'll learn the basics of computing engineering in one of the top programs in the world (ranked #43 in the Academic Rankings of World Universities 2024). And your co-op terms will give you two years of paid work experience.

You’ll graduate ready for a career as a software developer, hardware engineer, IT specialist, systems designer, and more, in a wide range of industries such as enterprise software, automotive, aerospace, automation and robotics, networks and databases, health care, and security.

What courses will you take in Computer Engineering?

First-year courses

You’ll take courses in math, physics, programming, and digital logic to build core skills in hardware, software, and problem-solving for your upper-year classes.

September to December

January to April or May to August

  • ECE 102 – Information Session
  • ECE 106 – Electricity and Magnetism
  • ECE 108 – Discrete Mathematics and Logic 1
  • ECE 124 – Digital Circuits and Systems
  • ECE 140 – Linear Circuits
  • ECE 192 – Engineering Economics and Impact on Society 
  • MATH 119 – Calculus 2 for Engineering

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

After first-year

  • Your upper-year courses will cover computer architecture, operating systems, embedded systems, software design, and digital electronics, with technical electives to explore areas like AI, cybersecurity, or robotics.

  • View all the courses required for your degree.

Sample upper-year courses

ECE 252 – Systems Programming and Concurrency
ECE 222 – Digital Computers
ECE 380 – Analog Control Systems
ECE 458 – Computer Security

Customize your degree

Explore specializations within your program to enhance your degree.

  • Communications & Signal Processing
  • Quantum Engineering

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

With its renowned co-op program and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, Waterloo Engineering is one of the world’s top engineering schools. You'll have access to emerging technologies, innovative professors, and world-class facilities.

Faculty:
Faculty of Engineering

Degree:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Engineering

Available as a co-op program?
Co-op only

Available as a regular program?
No

Available as a minor?
No

Follow your passion. With electives in AI, computer vision, robotics, machine learning, and more, you can tailor your studies to your interests.

Study in a high-tech hub. Waterloo region is home to more than 1,500 technology companies, including Google and Shopify, 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

  • AI accelerator
  • Hardware engineering
  • Test automation developer
  • Software developer
  • Full stack web developer
  • Data engineering student
  • Data scientist
  • iOS developer
  • Infrastructure engineering intern
  • QA developer, mobile

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.

Your first work term will be halfway through first year (January to April 2026).

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 Study Co-op Study
Fifth Co-op Study -

or after first year (May to August 2026).

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 -

There are two options for co-op sequences. You can request your preference if you receive an offer of admission.

Drones, Data & Discoveries: From Toronto to California, Computer Engineering student Komal has worked on cutting-edge robotics at five companies—learning to code drones, explore new cities, and chase big dreams along the way. Read her story here.

Learn more about co-op →

What can you do with a degree in Computer Engineering?

Graduates commonly pursue careers in software and hardware development and engineering. They often work in software, technology, and automotive companies.

Recent graduates

  • Engineer — Slack Technologies
  • Software Engineer — Microsoft
  • Firmware Engineer — Tesla Motors
  • Network Administrator — OpenText
  • Engineer, Software — Zynga
  • Innovation Technical Lead — Sun Life Financial
  • Chief Technology Officer — Rave Media

Possible professional designation

Learn about the future of careers in engineering.

Common questions about the program

What's the difference between Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, and Computer Science?

Computer engineering, software engineering, and computer science are all crucial fields in the realm of computing and technology. While they share some commonalities, each has its own distinct focus and applications.

Computer engineering integrates electrical engineering and computer science to develop computer hardware and software. It focuses on the design, development and testing of computer systems and components. The focus is on the design and development of computer hardware and the integration of hardware with software. This program is ideal for those interested in electronics and computer systems.

Software engineering is concerned with the design, development, testing and maintenance of software systems. Topics include software design, software development methodologies, testing, quality assurance, project management and user experience design. The focus is on applying engineering principles to software development. Software engineering is best for those interested in creating reliable and efficient software solutions and managing software projects.

Computer science is primarily concerned with the theoretical foundations of information and computation. It focuses on algorithms, data structures, software development and the principles of computer operation. The focus is on the theoretical and mathematical foundations of computing. Computer science is ideal for those interested in algorithms, programming and the theoretical aspects of computer systems.

What's the difference between Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering?

Computer Engineering and Electrical are closely related fields, but they focus on different aspects of technology. Electrical Engineering is broader and deals with the study, design, and application of electrical systems, including power generation and distribution, electronics, control systems, and telecommunications. It involves a lot of work with circuits, electromagnetics, power systems, signal processing, and control systems, and graduates may find careers in industries like energy, telecommunications, electronics, and automation.

In contrast, Computer Engineering is a specialized branch that combines elements of electrical engineering and computer science, focusing specifically on the design and development of computer systems, hardware, and software integration. It focuses more on digital systems, microprocessors, computer architecture, software development, and embedded systems, and graduates might find careers in designing and developing computer hardware, software, networking, and cybersecurity.

Both fields share a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and basic electronics, and both may involve programming and digital design, but Computer Engineering delves deeper into computer-specific topics.

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.

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)

Previous experience in programming is recommended.

Admission averages: Individual selection from the high 80s to low 90s

Complete the Admission Information Form once you've applied.

Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.

How to apply

Apply directly to this program on your application.

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Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?

Please contact the Faculty of Engineering which can answer any questions you have.