Overview

This Systems Design Engineering programme offered by University of Waterloo prepares researchers to generate new knowledge through the application of systems thinking, engineering design, and interdisciplinary problem-solving. Students investigate complex technological, environmental, biomedical, and societal challenges using approaches that integrate engineering principles, data analysis, modelling, optimization, and human-centred design. The programme emphasizes both fundamental and applied research, enabling students to develop innovative solutions at the intersection of technology, people, and systems.

Key Facts

Doctoral candidates conduct original research within diverse areas including biomedical engineering, artificial intelligence, mechatronic systems, decision sciences, human factors, environmental systems, and advanced sensing technologies. Research opportunities span topics such as disaster risk management, autonomous systems, sustainable energy, biomedical imaging, quantum sensing, computer vision, and human-environment interactions. Through advanced research and collaboration with faculty and interdisciplinary research teams, graduates are prepared for leadership roles in academia, industry, and government research organizations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Biomedical Engineering
Human Factors and Ergonomics
Machine Learning and Intelligence
Mechatronic and Physical Systems
Modelling and Simulation
Systems Theory
Optimization
Decision Making
Societal Systems

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-09 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00
Starting 2028-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00
Starting 2028-05-10 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-10-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

80

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

60

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Waterloo, Canada

Disciplines

Industrial & Systems Engineering Information Systems View 4 other PhDs in Information Systems in Canada

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

80

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

60

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Resume

Supplementary information form (SIF)

Transcript(s)

References

Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable

Excellent background preparation and academic achievement in prior degrees, usually a relevant (i.e. thesis-based) Master's degree with an 80% average from a recognized university.

Demonstrated ability to formulate research problems and to execute the research required to solve problems (such as a Master of Applied Science (MASc) research thesis or published scientific/technical papers).
At the time of admission, each student must have an approved PhD supervisor or two co-supervisors (at least one of whom is an approved PhD supervisor) who have agreed in writing to supervise the academic program of a candidate.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14792 CAD / year

≈ 14792 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

4596 CAD / year

≈ 4596 CAD / year

Living costs

Waterloo

Canada

810 - 1447 CAD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Systems Design Engineering.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Key Facts

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Waterloo

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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