The Department of Systems Design Engineering is a globally unique interdisciplinary department with flexible and innovative programs dedicated to the study of complex systems and their design.
Our undergraduate and graduate programs blend engineering, mathematics, and social sciences to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle today's and tomorrow's most pressing challenges.
Our Systems Design Engineering program teaches students to create innovative solutions to complex problems by thinking holistically. Learn to consider interactions between various system components, work on design projects, and apply design thinking methodologies to real-world challenges.
Our Biomedical Engineering program provides students with the opportunity to create biomechanic and biomedical devices while relating them to biology and physiology to improve quality of life. Learn to develop tools for medical diagnosis, treatment, and prevention utilizing an engineering systems approach.
News
Systems Design Engineering professor earns national mentorship award
Dr. Catherine Burns has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Dr. Suning Wang Award for Outstanding Graduate Mentorship.
SYDE PhD student awarded Governor General’s Gold Medal for 2026
This prestigious award recognizes top-performing master's and PhD graduates who have demonstrated world-class and impactful research.
Interactive exhibit explores the life and legacy of the Athabasca Glacier
An interdisciplinary team from the University of Waterloo premiered an interactive art exhibit that brings the story of the Athabasca Glacier to life, blending science, technology and art to spark deeper conversations about climate change.
Events
SYDE Graduate Seminar - Cognitive Architecture Modelling for Understanding Pilot Behaviour: Applying QN-ACTR to Flight Training in Takeoff and Landing
Seminar by Robin Xu
SYDE Research Seminar - Values in the Responsible Application of AI in Occupational Healthcare: A Multi-Stakeholder Analysis and Comparison with the Ethics Guidelines for Trustworthy AI
Virtual seminar by guest speaker, Max Tijhuis
SYDE Department Seminar with Seth Guikema
Seminar with guest speaker Seth Guikema
Home to Centre for Society, Technology and Values
The Centre for Society, Technology and Values (CSTV) is a uniquely UWaterloo interdisciplinary centre that sets out to explain and examine social aspects of technology and technological change.