Geological Engineering

The world is your office

From some of the farthest corners of the Earth to the most tech-savvy environments, Geological Engineering offers adventure and the ability to make a difference.

Harness the physical mechanics of the earth's surface to solve complex problems. Ensure the safety of dams and pipelines, assess risks for landslides and earthquakes, remove hazardous waste from groundwater, and more. 

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. Meanwhile, through co-op, you'll gain two years of related work experience.

Don't want to be stuck at a desk all day? You'll have the opportunity to examine geological processes first-hand through field courses.

When you graduate, your degree can take you around the world – working in natural resource and mineral exploration, hazard waste removal, groundwater management, infrastructure planning, and more.

• A ton of field courses and field labs. Study earth sciences through an engineering lens with extensive field-based courses and labs that'll take you from Waterloo's campus to northern Ontario and beyond.
• Make lasting connections. With just 15 to 20 students in first year, you'll develop strong bonds with your classmates and your professors.

Ontario students: 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