University of Waterloo is a public research university with a main campus in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
The history of the University of Waterloo (UW) can be traced back to Waterloo College (present-day Wilfrid Laurier University), the academic outgrowth of Waterloo Lutheran Seminary, which was affiliated with the University of Western Ontario since 1925. In 1956, a group of business leaders in Waterloo established the Waterloo College Associate Faculties (WCAF), a semi-autonomous entity of Waterloo College. The WCAF was intended to be a new kind of university, with a focus on science, engineering, and mathematics. In 1957, the WCAF was granted a charter as the University of Waterloo. The university opened its doors to its first students in 1959.
From the beginning, UW was known for its innovative approach to education. In 1969, UW became one of the first universities in Canada to introduce a co-operative education program. The co-op program allows students to alternate between periods of study and periods of paid work experience. This gives students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while completing their degrees.
UW has also been a leader in research. In 1967, UW established the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, one of the world's leading institutes for research in theoretical physics. UW is also home to a number of other world-class research institutes, including the Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology and the Centre for Cybersecurity and Innovation.
UW is a vibrant and diverse community, with students from all over the world. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs, so there is something for everyone at UW. UW is also located in a beautiful and vibrant city, with plenty to see and do both on and off campus.
Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2024, University of Waterloo is positioned as the #112 top university in the world, which makes it the #5 top university in Canada. The university's global rank is improved by 42 points from last year.
University Profile
Get a quick snapshot of the university's key details.
2024 Ranking
#5
University Name
University of Waterloo
Acronym
UW
Year Established
1957
Motto
Concordia cum veritate
Motto in English
In harmony with truth
Governing Type
Public
Student Body
Co-education
Highest Degree
Doctorate
Campus Type
Urban
Colors
Gold, black and white
Location
The university is located in Waterloo, Ontario. Find the address and map of the university below.
Address
200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Map
Contact
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