Program Overview

Systems Design Engineering (Nanotechnology) - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD in Systems Design Engineering Collaborative Nanotechnology program is designed to generate new knowledge and advance your career through innovative and interdisciplinary research. You will explore solutions to engineering problems at the cutting edge of technology and design, gaining perspectives on nanotechnology through excellent educational resources, a diverse network of expert instructors, and world-class research opportunities.

Program Overview

• Department/School: Systems Design Engineering
• Faculty: Faculty of Engineering
• Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April), Spring (May - August)
• Delivery mode: On-campus
• Program type: Collaborative, Doctoral, Research
• Length of program: 48 months (full-time)
• Registration option(s): Full-time
• Study option(s): Thesis

Application Deadlines

• February 1 (for admission in September)
• June 1 (for admission in January of the following year)
• October 1 (for admission in May of the following year)

Admission Requirements

• A master’s degree in engineering with a minimum average of 80% or a Master of Applied Science that includes the following two courses or their equivalent:
  • Calculus II (SYDE 112)
  • Matrices and Linear Systems (SYDE 114)
• And one of the following two courses or their equivalent:
  • Probability and Statistics (SYDE 212)
  • Calculus 3 (SYDE 211)
• 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)
• Transfer to the PhD program without completion of the MASc program: a student enrolled in a MASc program at the University of Waterloo may apply for transfer to the PhD program without completing a master's degree. Transfer from a MASc program to a PhD program will normally be considered if an applicant:
  • Has an excellent undergraduate record
  • Has obtained a grade average of at least 80% in courses that have been taken for graduate credit
  • Has developed a clearly defined research program that seems likely to satisfy the research proposal component of the PhD comprehensive examination and has demonstrated an aptitude for research
  • Presents objective evidence of adequate English language skills which should enable the candidate to write a thesis and to communicate orally
  • Is not beyond the fourth academic term of a MASc program

Degree Requirements

• Review the degree requirements on the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree
• Check out Waterloo's institutional thesis repository to see recent submissions from the Department of Systems Design Engineering graduate students

Application Materials

• Resume
• Statement of interest: A statement of maximum 500 words explaining your interest in and fit for the program you’re applying to
• Program-specific questions (PSQ): These are questions specific to the program you’re applying to
• Transcript(s)
• References: Three references, two from academic sources that are able to comment upon academic preparation and research ability
• Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable: TOEFL 80 (writing 22, speaking 20, reading 20, listening 18) IELTS 6.5 (writing 6.0, speaking 6.0)

Tuition and Fees

• Visit the graduate program tuition page to determine the tuition and incidental fees per term for your program
• Review living costs and housing
• Learn about the PhD housing guarantee program for admitted students
• Review the funding graduate school resources for graduate students

Upon completion of the program, you will be prepared to pursue or advance your career in fundamental or applied research in academic, government, or corporate environments. The program is designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to succeed in your chosen field.