Overview

The Systems Design Engineering (BEng) program at the University of Waterloo is an interdisciplinary undergraduate degree that focuses on the design, analysis, and optimization of complex engineering systems. It integrates principles from mechanical, electrical, software, and human factors engineering to address real-world challenges in technology and innovation.

Objectives include developing skills in systems thinking, modeling, simulation, and prototyping, with an emphasis on collaborative and project-based learning. Unique features include a mandatory co-operative education (co-op) program, allowing students to gain up to two years of paid work experience, and a curriculum that incorporates hands-on design projects from the first year.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-prepared for dynamic roles in industries such as technology, aerospace, biomedical engineering, and consulting. The program's strong emphasis on practical experience leads to high employability, with alumni often securing positions in research and development, product design, and systems integration.

Key Faculty/Staff

• Professor K. W. Michael Siu, Department Chair, specializing in human factors and ergonomics.
• Professor Elizabeth Croft, renowned for robotics and human-robot interaction research.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

The program benefits from the Systems Design Engineering Building, equipped with advanced prototyping labs, mechatronics facilities, and simulation software suites. Partnerships include collaborations with industry leaders like Google, IBM, and automotive firms for co-op placements and research projects, enhancing practical training and innovation opportunities.