Computer Engineering
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 will learn the basics of computing engineering in one of the top 75 programs in the world (Academic Rankings of World Universities 2023). 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 a mix of foundational engineering, programming, and mathematics courses in first year. After first year, most of your classes will be Computer Engineering courses covering topics such as communication systems, digital hardware, real-time operating systems, machine learning and AI, and analog control systems.
September to December
- ECE 105 – Classical Mechanics
- ECE 150 – Fundamentals of Programming
- ECE 190 – Engineering Profession and Practice
- MATH 115 – Linear Algebra for Engineering
- MATH 117 – Calculus 1 for Engineering
- ECE 198 – Project Studio
- Workplace Hazardous Materials Milestone
- ENGL 192/COMMST 192 – Communication in the Engineering Profession
This is a sample schedule. Courses are subject to change.
Note: Milestones and courses with deadlines for successful completion are shown in the terms where they are normally completed.
After first year
- See the range of courses available in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
- View all the courses required for your degree.
Customize your degree
Specialize in upper years to focus your studies.
- Communications & Signal Processing
- Quantum Engineering
Or choose one of the options available to all engineering students.
Faculty:
Faculty of Engineering
Degree:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Engineering
Available as a co-op program?
Yes
Available as a regular program?
No
Available as a minor?
No
Follow your passion. With more technical electives than any other computer engineering program in Canada, you’ll be able to explore interests in everything from circuit boards to software security.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Kelsey Richardson, our Faculty of Engineering recruitment co-ordinator who can answer any questions you have.
You can also visit our Computer Engineering program website