Geological Engineering at University of Waterloo

Programme overview

Leads to the Bachelor of Applied Science in Geological Engineering. Waterloo’s program is one of only two in Ontario. You’ll take Civil Engineering classes where you’ll learn design and problem-solving skills. You’ll also take Earth Sciences classes to acquire a solid background in geosciences. Offered as a co-op programme only.

Faculty: Faculty of Engineering | Study mode: co-op | Location: Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

What you will study

Your upper-year courses will cover geotechnical design, rock and soil mechanics, hydrogeology, and geophysics, with opportunities to specialize through technical electives and hands-on field experience. Sample upper-year courses include Mineralogy, Geotechnical Engineering 1, Engineering Geology, Geological Engineering Design Project 1.

Career pathways

For Geological Engineering graduates, the world is their office. They commonly pursue careers in engineering consulting, mining, and public health, while merging both tech and the outdoors.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Ontario applicants: Six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including Advanced Functions (minimum final grade of 70% is required); Calculus and Vectors (minimum final grade of 70% is required); Chemistry (minimum final grade of 70% is required); Physics (minimum final grade of 70% is required); English (ENG4U) (minimum final grade of 70% is required); Admission averages: Individual selection from the mid-to-high 80s; Requirements for all students; The Admission Information Form and online interview are required for admission to all Engineering programs. How to apply: Apply directly to this program on your application.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the courses you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

First-year students are admitted for the September (fall) term only. Terms: fall (September to December), winter (January to April), spring (May to August). Part-time, online, post-degree and non-degree studies can start in the winter, spring or fall term.

Applications for September 2027 entry close on 1 February 2027 for programs other than Engineering (documents due 15 February 2027) and on 15 January 2027 for Engineering programs other than Architecture (documents due 1 February 2027). International students have the same deadlines. Full-time applicants apply through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).

Part-time, online, post-degree and non-degree studies: winter 2027 applications close 30 October 2026 for degree and non-degree (13 November 2026 for post-degree); spring 2027 applications close 26 February 2027 for degree and non-degree (12 March 2027 for post-degree). Optometry closes 12 November 2026 and Pharmacy closes 6 January 2027.

Apply through the official page: https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/admissions/how-to-apply

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