Discover Nanotechnology Engineering at Waterloo

Quick Overview

The Nanotechnology Engineering program at the University of Waterloo integrates expertise from Electrical and Computer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Chemistry, providing students with a strong foundation in small-scale science and engineering, hands-on lab experience starting in the third year, and diverse career prospects heavily favoring industry employment (54%) or advanced studies (44%).

Key Points: Nanotechnology Engineering at Waterloo is a unique, collaborative program integrating Electrical and Computer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Chemistry expertise. Students engage in hands-on lab work, including cleanroom training starting in their third year, utilizing facilities like the Mike and Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Center. The curriculum covers foundational first-term courses like Calculus 1 and Chemical Principles, progressing to upper-year specialized courses such as Nanotoxicology and Nano-Micro-fabrication. The program emphasizes working at the nanoscale, exemplified by fabricating 200 nm diameter MIS Capacitors in the cleanroom. A key tip for success is building a strong cohort support system by making friends early in the first year. Post-graduation prospects show 54% pursue industry jobs, 44% enter advanced studies (Ph.D., MS, MD, etc.), and 2% start up companies, based on a June 2014 survey. Top career sectors for graduates include Software/IT (22%), Semiconductors & Electronics (23%), Business & Finance (12%), and Manufacturing (12%).

Context: This presentation, delivered by Aamna Tahir, a 4th-year Nanotechnology Engineering student at the University of Waterloo, outlines the structure, unique features, and career outcomes of the program. The presentation explains what nanotechnology engineering entails, highlights the dedicated laboratory and cleanroom facilities available to students, details the curriculum from first-term bound courses to specialized electives, and summarizes career prospects based on a June 2014 survey.