University of Waterloo is a research-intensive university in Waterloo, Ontario, known for co-operative education and entrepreneurship.
The University of Waterloo opened its doors in 1957 to 74 engineering students. Co-operative education was its cornerstone from the start.
The university describes itself as a leading global research-intensive university, renowned for entrepreneurship and innovation. It provides co-op and work-integrated learning at scale. Its motto is Concordia cum veritate, meaning 'In harmony with truth.' It envisions a community of curious, collaborative, innovative and entrepreneurial problem-solvers and leaders who seek equitable and sustainable solutions for the future of humanity and the planet.
More than 41,000 students attend the university annually. The university provides work-integrated learning opportunities with more than 8,000 active co-op employers. It is ranked #1 comprehensive research university in Canada by Research Infosource 2024, and #18 in the world for startup founders by Pitchbook University Rankings 2025.
The university is ranked #1 in Canada for experiential learning and employer-student connections. Its Velocity incubator has created more than 10,000 jobs and is described as Canada's most productive startup incubator by private investment. The university has a global network of more than 270,000 alumni in 160 countries.
The university's main address is 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1. The main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations, which includes six miles on each side of the Grand River.