Engineering Systems and Computing is a multi disciplinary field that combines the base fundamentals of general Engineering with the strength of Computer hardware and software knowledge .Students are able to direct their course of study to a particular area of interest by selecting the following options:

Mechatronics Systems: Mechatronics is the integration of microprocessor control systems, electrical systems, and mechanical systems. In the design of cars, robots, machine tools, household appliances, etc. such an integration and interdisciplinary approach to engineering design is increasingly adopted. Within this option the students will study the design and integration of such complex systems, and such courses as mechatronics, robotics, control systems.

Embedded Systems: Embedded systems study the software and hardware aspects related to the integration of embedded computers. An embedded computer system is any device that includes a programmable computer but is not itself intended to be a general purpose computer. Thus, a PC is not an embedded computing system but a fax machine, a VOIP phone is an embedded computing system. Embedded computing system design is a useful skill for the design of products such as: automobiles, PDAs and household appliances. Within this option students will study various aspects of the embedded systems including the design of analog integrated circuits, digital integrated circuits, re configurable computing, ASICs, and systems-on-chips.

Computing:The focus of this option is on studying software development and computer science fields such as artificial intelligence, database management systems and real-time systems design

Biomedical Systems :The biomedical systems area is concerned with the application of engineering principles and techniques to the medical field. A biomedical engineer works with professionals in the life sciences, medicine, and related fields to solve challenging biomedical problems. With a solid background from the core of the Systems and Computing program, students taking this option can apply their skills in such areas as medical imaging, image processing, physiological signal processing, systems analysis, sensor development and 3-D modeling. Within this option students will study medical image processing, bio-instrumentation design, and such courses as neuroanatomy, physiology, and neuroscience.

In recent years, computers have become integral to science, business and industry. That growth has prompted the need for specialists who can incorporate computers and information into complex industrial processes, business enterprises, and engineered systems and products.
Graduates of the program have considerable background and expertise in engineering design, computer hardware and software development. Computer specialists must understand the strengths and limitations of the hardware, software and control system to be capable of developing efficient, reliable systems - and Guelph’s Systems & Computer Engineering program gives you this multi-disciplinary background.

Graduates of this program work in

• Embedded Software Developer, Northern Digital Inc.
• Industrial Control Engineers, Linamar
• Testing Engineer, Honeywell Canada
• Information Technology Specialist, IBM Canada Ltd.
• Junior Software Engineer, Allied Signal Aerospace
• Applications Developer, Ehvert Engineering
• Wireless Solutions Engineer, Sybase Canada Inc

In your first two years you will develop a solid background in software, hardware and engineering systems. A selection of courses taken in the first two years include

After your second year you can choose which stream you would like to specialize in

Mechatronic Stream Introductions to Mechatronic System Design Robotics Systems Nero-Fuzzy and Soft Computing Systems Biomedical Bioinstrumentation Design Medical Image Processing Embedded Systems Analog Integrated Circuits VLSI Digital Design Reconfigurable Computing Embedded Systems Design Computer Software Systems Development and Integration Analysis and Design of Computer Algorithms Human Computer Interaction Computer Networks

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is this a computer programming or computer engineering program?

A: No. ES&C is not a software development program nor is it a computer engineering program. It is a Systems Engineering program focusing on computer-based systems. So, you will study subjects that computer programmers and computer designers will normally not study such as fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and signal processing. These courses are meant to provide you with a systems perspective.

Q: If I enroll in this program, is it possible to change over to other engineering programs?

A: The School of Engineering currently offers several other engineering programs in addition to ES&C: Transfer between these programs is quite easy in the first semester. In later years, it is possible, but catch-up courses may be required. Within the ES&C program itself, the first two years are common across the different options so you have some time to decide which area you would like to specialize in. Even in third and fourth year, there is flexibility to tailor an option package that suits your particular interests.

For descriptions of these courses view the current Undergraduate Calendar.