Welcome to Systems Design Engineering at the University of Waterloo

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

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Improving vision in the developing world

Ashutosh Syal (BASc ’14, Systems Design) was on track
to become a Toronto Bay Street trader when John Zelek
presented his third-year class with an issue. Hundreds of
millions people in the developing world have uncorrected
vision problems, said the Waterloo systems design
engineering professor. The mobile eye camps that serve
rural areas simply can’t keep pace with demand. Meanwhile,
many discarded smartphones end up overseas.

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.