About the School of Engineering
Welcome to Engineering at the University of Guelph — where big ideas take shape.
We're on a mission to be one of Canada’s top engineering schools by offering a hands-on, design-focused education that prepares you to tackle real-world challenges. With innovative programs and research that makes a difference, you'll gain the skills, experience, and confidence to engineer a better future — starting now.
What Drives Us in Guelph Engineering
Guided by the University of Guelph’s commitment to Improve Life, we’re focused on delivering an exceptional engineering experience — in the classroom, in the lab, and in the world. Our values shape everything we do:
Creating a welcoming environment built on equality, dignity, and diversity
Embracing a multidisciplinary approach to engineering education, with engineering design at the heart of all our programs
Encouraging teamwork, collaboration, and self-directed learning
Nurturing a culture of innovation that adapts to society’s evolving needs
Building strong partnerships beyond campus to enhance teaching and research
At Guelph, it's not just about what you learn — it's about how you’ll use it to make an impact.
Accreditation You Can Count On
Rest assured, our engineering programs are fully accredited, meaning your degree is recognized globally and opens doors to exciting career opportunities.
Kickstart Your Future in Engineering
At the School of Engineering at the University of Guelph, we offer a dynamic, hands-on engineering program that combines strong foundations in science and math, design thinking, innovation, ethical responsibility, and a commitment to sustainability.
Our collaborative, interdisciplinary environment fuels innovation and empowers students, faculty, and staff to achieve excellence in both learning and research — all with the goal of creating real-world impact.
Learning, Research, Impact
Design and Innovate
Engineering design is where theory meets innovation—turning your B.Eng. into real-world impact.
Research Centres and Institutes
Discover how our research centres and institutes drive innovation and real-world impact through collaborative, interdisciplinary engineering solutions.
Our Research Strengths
For more than 50 years, we have been contributing to U of G’s research-intensive activities through multidisciplinary and applied engineering research.
Our History — Engineering Roots That Run Deep
Engineering at Guelph has a legacy that stretches back to 1874, when it first took shape at the Ontario Agricultural College (OAC). By 1928, the Department of Agricultural Engineering was officially established, setting the stage for a bold new direction in hands-on, applied learning. By the 1950s, students were graduating with a unique dual-degree experience — completing their final year at the University of Toronto to earn both a Bachelor of Applied Science and a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from OAC. It was just the beginning of Guelph’s evolution into a leader in innovative, purpose-driven engineering education.
Our History: A New Chapter in Engineering Excellence
The founding of the University of Guelph in 1964 marked a major milestone in our engineering journey. That same year, the School of Agricultural Engineering was established under OAC, expanding its mission to meet the growing needs of the agricultural sector. Just one year later, in 1965, the School launched its first accredited programs in Agricultural Engineering and Water Resources Engineering — followed by Biological Engineering in 1968. These programs laid the groundwork for Guelph’s reputation as a leader in sustainable, systems-focused engineering.
Expanding Horizons, Building a Legacy
In 1970, the School of Agricultural Engineering officially became the School of Engineering, a name change that reflected its growing range of programs and evolving focus beyond agriculture. As the curriculum expanded, so did the need for a new home. In 1973, the School moved into the newly built Albert A. Thornbrough Building — a modern facility named in honour of Albert Thornbrough, former President of Massey-Ferguson Ltd. and a dedicated leader on the University’s Board of Directors. This move marked a bold step forward in Guelph Engineering’s commitment to innovation and growth.
Growth, Innovation, and Milestones
In 1989, the School of Engineering joined forces with the College of Physical Sciences to become the College of Physical and Engineering Sciences (CPES) — a move that sparked even more interdisciplinary collaboration. Around the same time, Guelph Engineering launched several forward-thinking programs: Environmental Engineering and Food Engineering in 1988, followed by Engineering Systems and Computing in 1989. As interest and enrollment grew, so did our home — the Thornbrough Building underwent major expansions in the 1990s and early 2000s to add lecture halls, labs, and collaborative spaces. By 2000, we proudly celebrated the graduation of our 2000th undergraduate engineering student, and in 2007, we marked a new era by officially adopting the Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) degree name.
Built on a Legacy. Driven by the Future.
From our roots in agricultural innovation to becoming a hub for cutting-edge engineering programs, the School of Engineering at the University of Guelph has always evolved to meet the needs of a changing world. Each chapter of our history reflects bold steps forward — expanding programs, modernizing spaces, and embracing new challenges. As we look ahead, we remain committed to growing with purpose, pushing boundaries, and empowering the next generation of engineers to lead with creativity, responsibility, and impact. The future of engineering starts here — and it’s yours to shape.
Dr. Ibrahim Deiab, PhD, P.Eng.
Director, School of Engineering
Dr. Ibrahim Deiab is an experienced academic leader with a strong background in research and innovation. He became Director of the School of Engineering in August 2024 after serving as Interim Director for a year. With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from McMaster University, he previously held key roles at the American University of Sharjah, including Director of Research and Department Head. Since joining the University of Guelph in 2014, Dr. Deiab has played a key role in shaping the future of engineering education and research.
U of G resides on the ancestral lands of the Attawandaron people and the treaty lands and territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit. We offer our respect to our Indigenous neighbours as we strive to strengthen our relationships with them. Today, this land is home to many First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. Acknowledging this reminds us of our important connection to this land where we learn and work. We affirm our commitment to an inclusive campus and workplace that respects, acknowledges and celebrates every member of our community.
About
Part of the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, we combine award-winning teaching, hands-on learning, and innovative research to prepare engineers who improve life and shape a better future.
Our Engineering Majors
Contact
Albert A. Thornbrough Building
University of Guelph
Guelph, ON
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