At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 2 years of paid co-opCo-op Experience
- Hands-on design courses every termPractical Skill Development
- Focus on human-centered solutionsInnovation Impact
- Specializations availableCustomized Learning
- Fourth-year capstone design projectReal-World Problem Solving
Combine your passion for engineering, health, and life sciences to innovate in the field of biomedical engineering. This program focuses on developing cutting-edge medical devices, systems, and biomaterials that improve human health. You will apply scientific knowledge to create technologies relied upon by medical professionals and patients daily, from advanced surgical tools and artificial organs to smart prosthetics. The curriculum emphasizes transforming biomedical research through computer science, developing assistive devices for recovery, and enhancing diagnostic imaging technologies. Hands-on labs and a fourth-year capstone design project provide practical experience in modelling, prototyping, and testing biomedical systems. This is a co-op only program, offering extensive practical experience through paid work terms integrated with your academic studies. You'll alternate between school and work every four months, gaining valuable industry insights and building a professional network. This immersive approach ensures you graduate with significant, relevant work experience, prepared for a dynamic career in the evolving field of biomedical engineering.
Curriculum
The Biomedical Engineering program builds a strong foundation in core science and engineering principles, progressing to specialized topics and practical applications. The curriculum is designed to provide hands-on experience through labs and projects throughout your studies. All students participate in a co-op program, integrating academic learning with professional work experience.
- First Year
- Digital ComputationBME 121
- Introduction to the Practice of Biomedical Engineering 1BME 141
- Introduction to User-Centered Biomedical Design 1BME 161
- Chemistry PrinciplesBME 186
- Linear Algebra for EngineeringMATH 115
- Calculus 1 for EngineeringMATH 117
- Communications in Biomedical Engineering-Written and OralBME 101
- Communications in Biomedical Engineering-VisualizationBME 101L
- Data Structures and AlgorithmsBME 122
- Introduction to Machine Learning and Artificial IntelligenceBME 123
- Human Factors in the Design of Biomedical and Health SystemsBME 162
- Physics 1: StatisticsBME 181
- Calculus 2 for EngineeringMATH 119
- Upper Years
- Engineering BiologyBME 285
- Physiological Systems ModellingBME 355
- Biomedical Engineering EthicsBME 381
- Biomedical Product Design and RegulationBME 361
- Health Care Operations and Practice - ObservationsBME 342
Careers
Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles in the rapidly advancing health technology sector. The program's strong emphasis on co-op experience provides a significant advantage in securing relevant employment upon graduation. You will be equipped to contribute to innovation in various areas of healthcare and medical technology.
- Medical Device Engineer
- Biotechnology Research and Development Engineer
- Clinical Application Analyst
- Surgical Robotics Research Intern
- Molecular Biology and Drug Delivery Specialist
- Biomedical Software Engineer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International students generally need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall (6.5 in writing/speaking, 6.0 in reading/listening) or a TOEFL iBT score of 90 overall (25 in writing/speaking for tests before Jan 21, 2026). PTE Academic requires a 63 overall with 65 in writing/speaking. Exemptions may apply if you have studied in an English-language system for four or more years.
- How much are the tuition fees and living costs for international students?
- Tuition fees are assessed based on international status. Specific amounts are not provided, but students can use the University of Waterloo's Tuition Fee Estimator for an estimate for the 2026/2027 academic year. Living costs such as housing and food are not specified and should be considered separately.
- What is the duration of the Biomedical Engineering program?
- The program information does not specify the exact duration in years. However, it is a co-op program, meaning academic studies are integrated with paid work terms that alternate every four months.
- What are some potential career paths after graduating from this program?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as Medical Device Engineer, Biotechnology Research and Development Engineer, Clinical Application Analyst, or Biomedical Software Engineer. The program's co-op experience provides a significant advantage in securing employment in the health technology sector.
- How do I apply to the Biomedical Engineering program?
- Applications are submitted through the University of Waterloo's applicant portal. You will need to submit official transcripts, proof of English proficiency if required, and complete the Declaration of Academic Experience. Check the program page for specific application and document deadlines.
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or equivalentSpecific course prerequisites and minimum average grades will apply. Please refer to the University of Waterloo's admissions website for detailed requirements based on your country of study.
IELTS Academic6.5 overall, with 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in reading and listening.
TOEFL iBT90 overall, with 25 in writing and speaking (for tests completed before January 21, 2026). For tests completed on or after January 21, 2026, the requirement is 4.5 overall, with 5 in writing and speaking.
PTE Academic63 overall, with 65 in writing and speaking.
Students whose first language is not English and who have not completed four or more years of full-time education in an English-language school system are required to provide proof of English proficiency. Exemptions may apply if you have studied in Canada or in an entirely English-language school system for your most recent four years of full-time education. Official transcripts or a letter from your school confirming the language of instruction are required for exemption verification.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified. Use the Tuition Fee Estimator on the University of Waterloo website for an estimate.
Tuition (home)Not specified. Use the Tuition Fee Estimator on the University of Waterloo website for an estimate.
LivingNot specified. Estimates for living expenses such as housing, food, books, and personal expenses should be considered separately.
Tuition fees are assessed based on domestic or international status. The Tuition Fee Estimator provides an estimate of tuition and incidental fees for planning purposes and for study permit applications. It does not include other living costs. Estimates are based on approved rates for the 2026/2027 academic year and assume a Fall start. Costs for preliminary English language training programs are not included.
How to apply
1. Apply OnlineSubmit your application through the University of Waterloo's applicant portal.
2. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload or send all required academic transcripts, English language test scores (if applicable), and any other supplementary documents by the specified document deadline.
3. Complete Declaration of Academic ExperienceOnce you have applied, complete this declaration in the applicant portal to determine if English language test scores are required.
4. Monitor Application StatusRegularly check the applicant portal for updates on your application status and any further instructions.
Accreditation
The University of Waterloo's Faculty of Engineering is globally recognized for its excellence.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International students generally need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall (6.5 in writing/speaking, 6.0 in reading/listening) or a TOEFL iBT score of 90 overall (25 in writing/speaking for tests before Jan 21, 2026). PTE Academic requires a 63 overall with 65 in writing/speaking. Exemptions may apply if you have studied in an English-language system for four or more years.
How much are the tuition fees and living costs for international students?
+
Tuition fees are assessed based on international status. Specific amounts are not provided, but students can use the University of Waterloo's Tuition Fee Estimator for an estimate for the 2026/2027 academic year. Living costs such as housing and food are not specified and should be considered separately.
What is the duration of the Biomedical Engineering program?
+
The program information does not specify the exact duration in years. However, it is a co-op program, meaning academic studies are integrated with paid work terms that alternate every four months.
What are some potential career paths after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as Medical Device Engineer, Biotechnology Research and Development Engineer, Clinical Application Analyst, or Biomedical Software Engineer. The program's co-op experience provides a significant advantage in securing employment in the health technology sector.
How do I apply to the Biomedical Engineering program?
+
Applications are submitted through the University of Waterloo's applicant portal. You will need to submit official transcripts, proof of English proficiency if required, and complete the Declaration of Academic Experience. Check the program page for specific application and document deadlines.