Nanoengineering at Waterloo, Toronto, and McMaster - Nanotechnology

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on comparing the nanoengineering programs at the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, and McMaster University. Participants explore various aspects of the programs, including curriculum differences, workload, and overall educational experience, as well as considerations for prospective students.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the University of Toronto's first-year curriculum includes computer programming and biology, while Waterloo and McMaster do not.
  • Both McMaster and UofT include electricity in their curricula, while both McMaster and Waterloo include chemistry.
  • The University of Toronto requires 12 courses in the first year, compared to 10 at Waterloo and 9 at McMaster, raising questions about workload and its impact on GPA and scholarships.
  • Participants inquire whether the UofT program is unreasonably difficult and if the rapid pace of the curriculum affects understanding of the material.
  • Questions are raised regarding which program offers the best ratio of career success to effort required and the most effective learning experience.
  • There is curiosity about the "Class Professor Seminar" at Waterloo and its value.
  • Another participant mentions the University of Alberta's strong nanoengineering program, suggesting it as an alternative option.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various viewpoints on the differences between the programs and the implications of workload, but no consensus is reached regarding which program is superior or the best choice for prospective students.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not clarify specific assumptions regarding the definitions of "workload," "career success," or "effective learning experience," leaving these terms open to interpretation.

Who May Find This Useful

Prospective students considering nanoengineering programs at the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, McMaster University, or the University of Alberta may find this discussion relevant.

WhatShouldIDo
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What is the difference between the nanoengineering programs at the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, and McMaster University?

According to their websites, in first year, only the UofT curriculum includes computer programming and biology. Both McMaster and UofT include electricity. Both McMaster and Waterloo include chemistry.

Also, the UofT requires 12 courses in the first year, Waterloo requires 10 courses, whereas McMaster requires just 9 courses. Does this mean that the UofT program has the heaviest work load?

Beyond these differences is there any other way to compare these programs?
Is the UofT program unreasonably difficult?
Is it possible to really understand the material if you have to cover it so quickly?
If the heavier workload results in a lower GPA do you risk losing your scholarships?
Which program offers the best ratio of career success to effort required?
Which program offers the most effective and efficient learning experience?
What does the "Class Professor Seminar" at Waterloo involve? Is it worthwhile?

I am planning to attend one of these universities next year, but I don't know how to decide between them. I would be thankful for any advice.

Thanks.

For reference, here are the approximate tuition fees for engineering programs across Canada:

UofT $10,095
UofW $10,242
McMaster $8,200
Dalhousie $6,840
UBC $5,422
Simon Fraser $5,539
 
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Since you seem interested in nanotech:

http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/ibp/nint/about/index.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:


ie, UofA has a pretty strong nanoengineering program (options in Material Engineering, Electrical engineering and Engineering Physics streams)
 
Last edited:
General_Sax said:
ie, UofA has a pretty strong nanoengineering program (options in Material Engineering, Electrical engineering and Engineering Physics streams)
Plus, there's the http://www.nanofab.uAlberta.ca/site/".
 
Last edited by a moderator:


Thanks for your suggestions. University of Alberta seems to have a very interesting nanotechnology program. I will add them to my shortlist.
 

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