Program overview
Admission Requirements
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Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Program overview

Earn a Software Engineering degree from the University of Waterloo, where you will gain valuable paid work experience while taking courses in computer engineering, computer science, and mathematics. This program prepares you to tackle real-world challenges, from creating innovative operating systems to developing autonomous vehicle technologies. At Waterloo, you will not only learn to write code but also analyze software architecture, apply algorithms, and design user-friendly interfaces. The program emphasizes teamwork and project management, ensuring you are well-equipped for a successful career in the tech industry.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Software Engineering is a co-op program designed to integrate academic learning with practical work experience. The program typically spans four years, allowing students to alternate between study and co-op terms. Key features of the program structure include:

  • Co-op work-study sequence that alternates between academic terms and work placements.
  • First work term begins at the end of the first year.
  • Two co-op sequence options to tailor your work experience.
  • Opportunities to work with leading tech companies and startups.

This structure not only enhances your learning but also provides you with up to two years of relevant work experience by the time you graduate, making you a competitive candidate in the job market.

Featured Experiences

The Software Engineering program at Waterloo offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance your education and career readiness:

  • Co-op opportunities with major tech companies and startups, providing hands-on experience in the field.
  • Access to a vibrant community with over 35 student-led design teams, allowing you to engage in practical projects.
  • Participation in hackathons and design challenges to foster innovation and teamwork.
  • Support from the Engineering Society (EngSoc) for social and academic events.
  • Involvement in Women in Engineering (WiE) initiatives to promote diversity and support for women in the field.

These experiences not only enrich your academic journey but also help you build a professional network and develop essential skills for your future career.

Career Options

Graduates of the Software Engineering program can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in Canada. Here are some potential job roles:

  • Software Engineer: Design and develop software applications, ensuring functionality and performance.
  • Software Development Engineer: Focus on building and maintaining software systems, often working in teams to deliver projects.
  • Mobile Developer: Specialize in creating applications for mobile devices, optimizing user experience and performance.
  • Data Scientist: Analyze and interpret complex data to help organizations make informed decisions.
  • Web Development Engineer: Design and implement web applications, ensuring they are user-friendly and efficient.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to work in various sectors, including technology, finance, and consulting.

 

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

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