University of Guelph

What you'll study

The BEng programme at the University of Guelph builds a strong engineering foundation in the first year and moves into discipline-specific technical courses and design work in later years. First-year studies typically cover calculus and linear algebra, physics, chemistry, introductory programming, materials and statics, engineering problem solving, and laboratory skills.

After the common first year, students enter a chosen stream where coursework becomes more specialised. Typical streams and focus areas include Biomedical Systems, Civil/Environmental, Electrical and Computer, and Mechanical topics. Upper-year modules commonly include:

• Advanced mathematics and numerical methods for engineers
• Thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer (mechanical-oriented)
• Signals and systems, circuits, and embedded systems (electrical/computer)
• Biomaterials, biomechanics and medical device design (biomedical)
• Hydrology, environmental systems and water quality engineering (environmental/civil)
• Materials science, manufacturing processes and CAD
• Control systems, instrumentation and sensors
• Engineering economics, project management and professional practice

The programme emphasises laboratory courses, computer modelling, and multi‑term team design projects, concluding with a capstone engineering design sequence. Students also have access to elective options that allow interdisciplinary study with life sciences, environmental science, computer science or business.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on completion of a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in mathematics and science. Typical prerequisites include:

• Advanced mathematics (calculus) and functions
• Physics
• Chemistry (recommended for some streams)
• English or equivalent language requirement

Successful applicants normally present a strong academic record in those subjects. The University also considers mature applicants, college-to-university transfer students and applicants with relevant post‑secondary coursework. International applicants must meet English-language proficiency requirements as set by the University.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BEng programme progress into engineering roles across industry, government and research. Typical entry-level positions include:

• Design and development engineer in mechanical, electrical or biomedical companies
• Environmental or water resources engineer in consulting and municipal infrastructure
• Systems, software or firmware engineer in technology and automation firms
• Manufacturing, quality assurance and process engineering roles
• Project engineering and engineering consulting

The accredited BEng also provides the academic foundation required to pursue professional licensure as a professional engineer (P.Eng.), following required work experience and successful completion of licensing exams. Graduates may also continue to postgraduate study in engineering, applied science or management.

Why study at University of Guelph

The University of Guelph offers an engineering programme with strong interdisciplinary links to life sciences, environmental studies and computer science, making it a good fit for students interested in applied engineering challenges in health, agriculture and the environment. The School of Engineering emphasises hands-on learning through modern labs, makerspaces and team design projects.

Students benefit from small-class teaching in technical courses, opportunities for undergraduate research, co‑op or internship placements with industry partners, and active student engineering clubs and competitions. The programme is professionally accredited, preparing graduates for immediate entry to engineering practice or further study.