COURSE CURRICULUM

The Nanotechnology Engineering program at Waterloo equips students with a multidisciplinary foundation across physics, chemistry, biology, and electronics, enabling innovation at the nanoscale. Starting in 1A, students build core knowledge through courses like calculus, programming, linear algebra, and chemical principles. In 1B, they explore materials science, circuits, and computational methods. The second year deepens technical expertise with organic chemistry, semiconductor devices, and material characterization, alongside courses on societal impacts and professional communication. In third year, students tackle quantum mechanics, macromolecular science, thermodynamics, and microfabrication, supported by lab-based learning and nanosystem design. Fourth year culminates in a major capstone project—either NE408/409 or GENE403/404—accompanied by advanced technical electives and specialized labs in nano-electronics, instrumentation, biosystems, or materials. Students must complete eight technical electives, including at least four from List 1, which covers topics such as nanomedicine, biosensors, organic electronics, lithography, and nano-instrumentation. Additional electives can be selected from Lists 2 and 3, offering broader options in biomedical engineering, chemical processes, embedded systems, software, AI, quantum computing, and more. This comprehensive curriculum, paired with hands-on labs and paid co-op placements, prepares graduates to drive innovation across sectors like healthcare, electronics, energy, and environmental sustainability, positioning them at the forefront of the rapidly growing global nanotechnology industry.