Program overview
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Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Program overview

Looking to build a career in building design consulting? An Architectural Engineering degree from Waterloo will equip you for success in this field. As an Architectural Engineering student, you’ll learn to forge impressive design, collaboration, and communication skills, along with strong analytical capabilities and technical applications needed for building design and operation. This program emphasizes green building technology and sustainability, ensuring that you are well-prepared to assess, repair, and refurbish existing buildings while also focusing on new builds. With a unique blend of engineering and architectural concepts, this program is designed to address the entire life cycle of a building, making it a rare offering among North American institutions.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Architectural Engineering is a co-op program that integrates academic learning with practical work experience. The program is structured as follows:

  • Program Length: Typically spans five years.
  • Students alternate between study and co-op work terms, allowing for hands-on experience in the field.
  • Each term includes a studio design course, enhancing practical skills and teamwork.
  • In the third year, students study at the world-class School of Architecture in Cambridge, Ontario.
  • Emphasis on project group work from the beginning of the program.

This structure ensures that students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also apply it in real-world settings, preparing them for successful careers in the architectural engineering field.

Featured Experiences

The Architectural Engineering program at Waterloo offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

  • Co-op Opportunities: Students gain relevant paid work experience, alternating between school and work every four months.
  • Studio Design Courses: Hands-on modeling and prototyping are integral, with a studio course each term.
  • Collaboration with Architects: Students work closely with architecture students during their third year, fostering interdisciplinary skills.
  • Focus on Sustainability: The program emphasizes green building technology and sustainable practices.
  • Diverse Co-op Job Titles: Opportunities include roles such as Architectural Engineering/BIM Consultant and Energy Sustainability Engineering Assistant.

Career Options

Graduates of the Architectural Engineering program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

  • Building Systems Engineer: Design and optimize mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in buildings.
  • Structural Engineer: Analyze and design structural components to ensure safety and functionality.
  • Construction Project Manager: Oversee construction projects from inception to completion, ensuring timelines and budgets are met.
  • Facade Engineer: Specialize in the design and performance of building facades, focusing on aesthetics and energy efficiency.
  • Sustainability Consultant: Advise on sustainable building practices and energy-efficient designs.
  • Building Information Modeling (BIM) Specialist: Utilize BIM technology to improve building design and construction processes.
  • Building Inspector: Ensure compliance with building codes and regulations during construction.
  • Urban Planner: Work on the development and planning of urban spaces, integrating architectural and engineering principles.
  • Lighting Engineer: Design lighting systems that enhance the functionality and aesthetics of spaces.
  • Acoustical Engineer: Focus on sound control and acoustics in building design.

With a strong foundation in both engineering and architectural principles, graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce and make significant contributions to the field of architectural engineering.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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