Software Engineering – Faculty of Engineering

Software Engineering

Gain a solid foundation in software development to support engineering applications and control physical devices, paving the way for innovation in digital control systems.

Length
4 years
Degree
Bachelor of Engineering (Co-op Available)
Program
Engineering
Options

Co-opManagementSociety

Fundamental design principles

Students are instilled with lasting design principles and a thorough grounding in developing software that supports engineering applications and controls physical devices, ensuring their skills remain relevant in the evolving field.

Software testing and simulation

Students learn to apply basic mathematics and science (including relevant Computer Science), as well as undertake disciplined testing and simulation to ensure that any system they design will perform its tasks adequately when delivered to a customer for use.

Multiple people have complimented me for not being a ‘typical engineer’ and I think McMaster Engineering’s Software & Society program is partially to thank for that. Being considerate and mindful while practicing engineering is important, especially as we continue to be a more connected world.

Graeme Crawley, Software Engineering and Society

Admission requirements

Academic Prerequisites

This is an above level 1 specialization that requires successful completion of the Engineering 1 general first year.

Use the Future Students admissions tool for entry requirements.

Co-op and experiential learning

Experiential learning provides students with hands-on opportunities beyond the traditional lecture-style format to gain valuable experience.

The Engineering Co-op Program is an optional program which provides you with the opportunity to work in real engineering positions before you graduate. The Undergraduate Co-op Program is administered by the Engineering Co-op and Career Services Department (ECCS).

Example employers:

  • Bell Canada
  • IBM Canada
  • RBC Royal Bank
  • CIBC Canadian Imperial Bank of Canada
  • Thales Canada
  • Intelex
  • Ericsson
  • Evertz Microsystems
  • NCR Corporation
  • Sun Life Financial

Learn more about co-op.

McMaster Engineering has many engineering clubs, teams and societies you can join to enhance your practical knowledge and soft skills, provide support, or give you the chance to explore new activities. Clubs are an enjoyable way to enrich your student life and contribute to your social development and academic success.

  • Software Engineering Club
  • PhaseOne (formerly HackItMAC)
  • McMaster SumoBot Club
  • MacACM
  • McMaster Solar Car Project

Browse opportunities to get involved and gain experience.

Engineering programs have been enriched with interdisciplinary design courses, enabling students to work in teams on real-world problems. This practical experience builds their portfolios and hones skills vital for managing complex projects and utilizing emerging technologies. It prepares them for co-ops and future careers, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and an understanding of societal issues.

Four project-based design courses that all students take include:

  • ENGINEER 1P13: Integrated Cornerstone Design Projects in Engineering
  • ENGINEER 2PX3: Engineering Design 2: Communications and Societal Impact
  • ENGINEER 3PX3: Engineering Design 2: Engineering Economics
  • CAPSTONE

Find out more

Career paths

Most graduates start out being developers, but a wide variety of software-intensive industries, from large companies to start-ups. McMaster, through The Forge, provides a lot of help to entrepreneurial students with bright new ideas.

  • Biomedical field
  • Computer system development
  • Power, chemical, or automotive industry

Research areas

McMaster Engineering has a world renowned research group in software engineering pursuing research in a wide range of areas including:

  • Software certification
  • Wireless systems
  • Optimization
  • Software development
  • Biomedical engineering
  • Power systems

How to apply

Understand every step, from applying, to accepting your offer and joining us on campus!

Department of Computing and Software

We’re developing the engines of economic growth in a digital society.