Undergraduate Programs

We offer programs in Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering leading to a Bachelor of Applied Science in either of these fields. Students may also choose to specialize in Biomedical Engineering.

Our programs commence in second year after students have met the requirements of first year engineering. Students entering second year of Applied Science must choose their program by submitting the Faculty of Applied Science Second Year Placement Form. All students need to complete this form no matter what program and option they are choosing. See our admissions page for further information.

Course content throughout our undergraduate programs is delivered through lectures, in cutting-edge laboratory facilities, in team-based projects, through early design experience, and through a co-op option.

What is the difference between Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering?

Great question, and we are glad you asked! While electrical engineering and computer engineering share many similarities, they are two distinct fields. Computer Engineering is a discipline that is focused on developing computing systems. The goal of the Computer Engineering program is to develop in students an ability to design complete systems that include hardware and software elements. Computer Engineers focus not just on how computers work but how to integrate them into larger systems.

There is a some overlap between Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering and this overlap is typically related to the design of digital circuits and systems. Electrical Engineering is more broadly concerned with electronic devices, electrical motors and machines, generation and transmission of electricity, communications, signal processing, and control of such systems. As you can imagine, Electrical Engineering is an incredibly vast area! A computer engineer should understand how a transistor works and how it plays a role in digital circuits but questions related to improving the behavior of the electronics is mostly an electrical engineering activity.

Both degrees are incredibly rewarding and can lead to a large variety of opportunities, so choosing which one is best for you depends on your personal interest!

Why is Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering combined into the same department?

Students in both fields take many of the same core courses. Computer Engineering is focused on the development of computing systems, and this naturally involves both hardware and software. Since there is overlap between the two programs, having them combined into one department makes it easier for students to learn from their peers and relevant instructors, seek advising, register into courses, and switch between programs, if desired. Students can also choose to enter the Biomedical Engineering option in our department, which is another related branch of engineering that is highly sought-after.

I know which program I want to apply for in ECE! How do I apply?

For all application and admissions information, please see our Undergraduate Admissions page!

I am a current student and have a question about course registration. How can I get help?

Check out our Undergraduate Registration Guidelines

Meet our staff and instructors!

ECE Faculty Members

ECE Staff Members