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PhD in Systems Design Engineering (Aeronautics)

University of Waterloo

Waterloo, Ontario, Canada•QS 2027 #113 =

Official program page (opens in a new tab)

PhD in Systems Design Engineering (Aeronautics) is a doctorate in Applied Design programme offered by University of Waterloo in Waterloo, Canada. The programme runs for 4 years, delivered on campus. Tuition for international students is CAD 7,396 per semester.

Also offered as: Master's Degree

At a glance

Degree: Doctorate
Field: Applied Design
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: On Campus
International tuition: CAD 7,396 / semester

We have no an application deadline on record for this programme yet — see the official programme page. — it helps other students.

Last checked September 2026 · Source: uwaterloo.ca ·

Program details

Overview

The PhD in Systems Design Engineering (Aeronautics) at the University of Waterloo applies an interdisciplinary systems design engineering approach to challenges facing the future of aviation, aerospace, and space. Students conduct original doctoral research culminating in a dissertation, working with faculty in the Department of Systems Design Engineering. The program is full-time and delivered on-campus over four years (48 months), with admission in the Fall, Winter, or Spring term. Applicants typically hold a master's degree in engineering with a minimum 80 percent average, including required coursework, or transfer directly from a Master of Applied Science in the department with an 80 percent graduate average and demonstrated research aptitude. Graduates are prepared for research careers in academic, government, and corporate environments connected to aerospace and aviation.

Requirements

Minimum GPA: 80.00 / %
Admission Requirements: Applicants require a master's degree in engineering with a minimum 80% average, or a Master of Applied Science including Calculus II and Matrices and Linear Systems, plus either Probability and Statistics or Calculus 3, along with demonstrated ability to formulate and execute research. Direct transfer from the department's Master of Applied Science is possible with an 80% graduate average and demonstrated research aptitude. Where required, English language proficiency is demonstrated with a TOEFL score of 4.5 overall (writing 4.5, speaking 4, reading 4, listening 4) or an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (writing 6.0, speaking 6.0).

Application Details

Start Date: Fall, Winter and Spring

About University of Waterloo

“Concordia cum veritate”

Type: University
Control: Public
Campus setting: Urban
Founded: 1957
Students: 41,000
QS rank: #113 =
Programs: 297
Location: Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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  • David Johnston International Student Scholarships
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  • Faculty of Mathematics Global Scholarships — CAD 40,000
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Frequently asked questions

What degree does PhD in Systems Design Engineering (Aeronautics) award?

University of Waterloo awards a Doctorate in the field of Applied Design on completion of this programme.

How long does PhD in Systems Design Engineering (Aeronautics) take?

The programme runs for 4 years.

How much does PhD in Systems Design Engineering (Aeronautics) cost?

Tuition for international students is CAD 7,396 per semester.

Can PhD in Systems Design Engineering (Aeronautics) be studied online?

No — the programme is taught on campus at University of Waterloo.

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