Software Systems Engineering
What is Software Systems Engineering?
Software Systems Engineers leverage their expertise in computing to address real-world challenges through innovative solutions. Graduates of this program emerge as engineering professionals and leaders, contributing to a wide range of projects across various industries. They pursue careers as software architects, systems analysts, designers, consultants, and project managers. The Software Systems Engineering program equips students with the skills and knowledge to analyze, design, and develop software for a diverse array of platforms, from traditional computer systems to embedded microprocessors.
We offer well-rounded undergraduate and graduate education that emphasizes both technical depth and practical experience. Students benefit from hands-on lab work supported by full-time instructors and small upper-year class sizes that promote interactive, personalized learning. Co-op and internship opportunities provide valuable industry exposure. Graduate students in the MEng, MSc, and PhD programs engage in applied research and software development projects using modern computing resources and collaborative environments.
Key research areas include:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Development of intelligent systems utilizing deep learning, reinforcement learning, and generative adversarial networks (GANs) for applications in computer vision, pattern recognition, and cognitive architectures. - Human-Centered and Community-Centered Design
Design of software systems that prioritize user experience, accessibility, and community engagement, with a focus on addressing real-world problems and enhancing quality of life. - eHealth and Virtual Care Technologies
Development of digital health solutions, including mobile applications and platforms, to improve healthcare delivery, patient engagement, and access to services. - Software Engineering Methodologies
Research into agile development, design thinking, and lean methodologies to improve software development processes and project management in engineering contexts. - Multimedia and Mobile Software Systems
Creation of context-aware applications and tools that leverage multimedia content and mobile technologies for enhanced user interaction and functionality. - Knowledge Management and Collaboration Tools
Development of systems that facilitate knowledge sharing, collaboration, and information management within organizations and communities. - Embedded Systems and Network Computing
Research into the design and implementation of embedded systems and networked computing solutions for various applications in engineering and technology. - Computational Theories and Real-Life Programming Techniques
Exploration of computational theories and their application to practical programming techniques, bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world software development. - Software Systems for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Design and development of software systems aimed at addressing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on areas such as education, health, and environmental sustainability. - Creative Technologies and Interactive Media
Integration of art, music, and interactive media into software systems to create innovative and engaging user experiences.
Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
President’s Teaching scholar
IEEE E.F. Glass Western Canada Merit Award Recipient
Dr. Kin-Choong Yow was selected as the 2025 recipient of IEEE Canada’s prestigious E.F. Glass Western Canada Merit Award
This honour recognizes outstanding IEEE volunteers who go above and beyond in serving the IEEE community in Western Canada.
Careers for SSE Graduates
What sort of career could you have?
Software Systems Engineers typically work in the following areas or hold the following job titles:
- Design Engineer
- Embedded Systems Engineer
- Integration Engineer
- Multimedia Engineer
- Software Developer
- Software Process Engineer
- Software Project Manager
- Software Quality Engineer
- Software Systems Engineer