UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO · CANADA
Systems Design Engineering
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Co-op only programWork Experience
- Two full years of paid co-op experienceCo-op
- Systems thinking approachProblem Solving
- Fundamentals of Electrical, Mechanical, and Software EngineeringCore Engineering
- Project-based learningPractical Application
- Multiple specialization optionsCustomization
Systems Design Engineering is a unique program that focuses on using a systems-thinking approach to solve complex engineering problems. You will learn to examine all aspects of a system, including people, materials, tools, and software, to develop innovative solutions. The program integrates fundamental knowledge from electrical, mechanical, and software engineering with a strong emphasis on design methods and systems modelling. This approach equips you to understand how changes in one part of a system affect others, enabling you to create comprehensive and effective designs. With a project-based learning style and extensive co-op opportunities, you'll gain practical experience applying your skills to real-world challenges across various industries, preparing you for a wide range of engineering careers.
Curriculum
The curriculum builds a strong foundation in engineering fundamentals and systems thinking, progressing to specialized knowledge and project work. The program includes extensive co-op work terms integrated with academic study.
- First Year - Fall
- Communications in Systems Design Engineering-Written and OralSYDE 101
- Digital ComputationSYDE 121
- Introduction to Systems ThinkingSYDE 151
- Introduction to DesignSYDE 161
- Linear Algebra for EngineeringMATH 115
- Calculus 1 for EngineeringMATH 117
- First Year - Winter
- Communications in Systems Design Engineering-VisualizationSYDE 101L
- Introduction to Ecological SystemsSYDE 152
- Human Factors in DesignSYDE 162
- Introduction to Design 2SYDE 163
- Physics 1: StaticsSYDE 181
- Calculus 2 for EngineeringMATH 119
- Upper Years
- Culture of Design, ImpactsSYDE 261
- Engineering PrototypingSYDE 263
- Systems Models 1SYDE 351
- Optimization and Numerical MethodsSYDE 411
Careers
Graduates are well-prepared for diverse engineering roles due to their broad foundational knowledge and specialized systems-thinking skills. The co-op program provides significant practical experience, making graduates highly sought after in the job market.
- Hardware program manager
- User experience designer
- Transportation planner
- Project design engineer
- Project lead
- Product manager
- Energy manager
- Senior solutions engineer
- Engineering consulting
- Project management
- Applications engineering
- Business analysis
- Technology consulting
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- You can meet the English language requirement with an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall (6.5 in writing and speaking), a TOEFL iBT score of 90 overall (25 in writing and speaking), or a PTE Academic score of 63 overall (65 in writing and speaking). Some exemptions may apply if you have studied in an English-language school system for at least four years.
- How do I apply to the Systems Design Engineering program?
- You will apply online through the University of Waterloo's applicant portal, complete a Declaration of Academic Experience, and submit required documents including official transcripts and English language test scores by the specified deadlines.
- What are the tuition fees for this program?
- Tuition fees are program-specific and vary by year. Please use the University of Waterloo's Tuition Fee Estimator for a personalized estimate, as living costs are not included.
- What are the academic entry requirements?
- You will need a High School Diploma. Specific course requirements vary by country and curriculum, so please refer to the University of Waterloo's admissions website for detailed information based on your region.
- What kind of career opportunities can I expect after graduating?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Hardware program manager, User experience designer, Project design engineer, and Business analyst, among others. The program also prepares you for professional engineering designations.
- How long does the program take?
- The program integrates academic study with two full years of paid co-op experience, indicating a duration longer than a standard bachelor's degree.
Entry requirements
High School DiplomaSpecific course requirements will vary based on country and curriculum. Please refer to the University of Waterloo's admissions website for detailed information based on your region.
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 Jan 21, 2026). For tests completed on or after Jan 21, 2026: 4.5 overall, with 5 in writing and speaking.
PTE Academic63 overall, with 65 in writing and speaking
Exemptions may apply if you have studied in Canada or in an English-language school system for at least four years. Official transcripts or a letter from your school confirming the language of instruction are required for exemption verification. English language test scores must be from tests taken on or after May 1, 2024.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are program-specific and vary by year. Please use the University of Waterloo's Tuition Fee Estimator for a personalized estimate. Costs for English language training programs are not included in degree estimates.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are program-specific and vary by year. Please use the University of Waterloo's Tuition Fee Estimator for a personalized estimate.
LivingLiving costs such as off-campus housing, groceries, textbooks, and equipment are not included in tuition fee estimates and should be budgeted separately.
The Tuition Fee Estimator provides an estimate for Fall 2026 start dates and is updated annually. It includes tuition and incidental fees. Detailed breakdowns are not available through the estimator; refer to Fee Schedules for more information.
How to apply
1. Apply OnlineSubmit your application through the University of Waterloo's applicant portal.
2. Complete Declaration of Academic ExperienceIn the applicant portal, complete this declaration to determine if you need to submit an English language test score.
3. Submit English Language Proficiency ScoresIf required, ensure your official test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) are sent directly from the testing agency to the University of Waterloo by the document deadline. Scores must be from tests taken on or after May 1, 2024.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsProvide official transcripts and any other required documents by the program's document deadline.
5. Await DecisionAdmissions decisions will be communicated following the review of your application.
Accreditation
None specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
You can meet the English language requirement with an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall (6.5 in writing and speaking), a TOEFL iBT score of 90 overall (25 in writing and speaking), or a PTE Academic score of 63 overall (65 in writing and speaking). Some exemptions may apply if you have studied in an English-language school system for at least four years.
How do I apply to the Systems Design Engineering program?
+
You will apply online through the University of Waterloo's applicant portal, complete a Declaration of Academic Experience, and submit required documents including official transcripts and English language test scores by the specified deadlines.
What are the tuition fees for this program?
+
Tuition fees are program-specific and vary by year. Please use the University of Waterloo's Tuition Fee Estimator for a personalized estimate, as living costs are not included.
What are the academic entry requirements?
+
You will need a High School Diploma. Specific course requirements vary by country and curriculum, so please refer to the University of Waterloo's admissions website for detailed information based on your region.
What kind of career opportunities can I expect after graduating?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Hardware program manager, User experience designer, Project design engineer, and Business analyst, among others. The program also prepares you for professional engineering designations.
How long does the program take?
+
The program integrates academic study with two full years of paid co-op experience, indicating a duration longer than a standard bachelor's degree.