UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO · CANADA
University of Waterloo - Graduate Engineering Programs
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Canada's Largest Engineering SchoolInstitution Size
- Six Departments and Two SchoolsAcademic Structure
- Direct Entry PhD AvailablePhD Pathway
- Minimum funding of $30,000 for PhDPhD Funding
- Minimum funding of $18,000/year for MAScMASc Funding
- Collaborative programs in Water, Nanotechnology, Quantum Information, and AeronauticsSpecialized Programs
The University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive range of graduate engineering programs, including research-based Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Applied Science (MASc) degrees, as well as coursework-based Master of Engineering (MEng) and Master of Management Sciences (MMSc) degrees, and Graduate Diplomas (GDip). These programs are designed for students seeking advanced knowledge and research opportunities within Canada's largest engineering school. The university hosts six engineering departments and two schools, providing a diverse academic environment. While some programs offer direct entry or accelerated pathways, many require a supervisor to be identified before admission. Funding opportunities, including teaching and research assistantships, are available for eligible research-based programs.
Curriculum
Graduate engineering programs at the University of Waterloo are offered in various formats, including research-based and coursework-based options. The structure and duration vary by program.
- PhD
- Original research and thesis
- 3-4 courses
- MASc
- Original research and thesis
- 4-5 courses
- MEng/MEng Co-op
- 8-9 courses
- MMSc/MMSc Co-op
- 8-9 courses
- Graduate Diploma (GDip)
- 4 courses
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic requirements for the PhD program?
- For the Direct Entry PhD, a Bachelor's degree is required for top applicants. Typically, a Master's degree is needed for standard PhD admission.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- For IELTS Academic, a 6.5 overall score is needed, with at least 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in reading and listening. For TOEFL iBT, a score of 90 overall is required with 25 in writing and speaking, for tests taken before January 21, 2026.
- How long does the PhD program typically take?
- The PhD program involves original research and thesis, along with 3-4 courses. The specific duration can vary by program.
- What funding is available for PhD students?
- PhD students are eligible for a minimum funding of $30,000. Teaching Assistantships (TA) and Research Assistantships (RA) are also available for eligible students.
- How do I apply for the graduate engineering program?
- You should check the program page for specific requirements and deadlines, prepare your application documents including transcripts and language scores, and submit your online application. Securing a supervisor is a critical step for research-based programs.
- Where can I find information about tuition fees?
- Tuition fees are assessed based on residency status. You should refer to the Tuition Fee Estimator for program-specific estimates, as it provides an estimate for the Fall 2026 term.
Entry requirements
PhDBachelor’s degree for Direct Entry PhD for top applicants; typically a Master's degree for standard PhD admission.
MAScRelevant Bachelor's degree.
MEng/MMScRelevant Bachelor's degree.
GDipRelevant Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
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). Requirements change Jan 21, 2026 to 4.5 overall with 5 in writing and speaking.
PTE Academic63 overall, with 65 in writing and speaking.
English test scores are required if your first language is not English AND your last four years of full-time education were not in an English-language school system. Exemptions may apply. Official test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency. Tests taken before May 1, 2024 are not accepted. For research-based programs (PhD, MASc), a supervisor is required before an offer of admission can be made.
Fees
Tuition (international)Refer to Tuition Fee Estimator for program-specific estimates.
Tuition (home)Refer to Tuition Fee Estimator for program-specific estimates.
LivingEstimate not provided. The Tuition Fee Estimator does not include off-campus housing, groceries, textbooks, or equipment.
Tuition fees are assessed based on residency status. The Tuition Fee Estimator provides an estimate for the Fall 2026 term and does not include costs for preliminary English language training programs or other living expenses.
How to apply
1. Check Program PageReview each program's specific admission requirements and deadlines, as some may have extended deadlines for Fall 2026.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather necessary academic transcripts, English language test scores (if required), and any other program-specific materials such as work samples or portfolios.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application through the applicant portal. Ensure all required documents are uploaded or sent directly by the specified deadlines.
4. Await Admission DecisionAdmission decisions are made by the program and department. For research-based programs, securing a supervisor is a critical step before an offer can be made.
Scholarships
PhD Minimum Funding$30,000
MASc Minimum Funding$18,000/year
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic requirements for the PhD program?
+
For the Direct Entry PhD, a Bachelor's degree is required for top applicants. Typically, a Master's degree is needed for standard PhD admission.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
For IELTS Academic, a 6.5 overall score is needed, with at least 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in reading and listening. For TOEFL iBT, a score of 90 overall is required with 25 in writing and speaking, for tests taken before January 21, 2026.
How long does the PhD program typically take?
+
The PhD program involves original research and thesis, along with 3-4 courses. The specific duration can vary by program.
What funding is available for PhD students?
+
PhD students are eligible for a minimum funding of $30,000. Teaching Assistantships (TA) and Research Assistantships (RA) are also available for eligible students.
How do I apply for the graduate engineering program?
+
You should check the program page for specific requirements and deadlines, prepare your application documents including transcripts and language scores, and submit your online application. Securing a supervisor is a critical step for research-based programs.
Where can I find information about tuition fees?
+
Tuition fees are assessed based on residency status. You should refer to the Tuition Fee Estimator for program-specific estimates, as it provides an estimate for the Fall 2026 term.