Computer Science (BCompSc)
Why study Computer Science?
Computer science uses theoretical and mathematical foundations of computation to understand both software and hardware structure for effective and creative design.
Our state-of-the-art labs for high-performance computing, networks and artificial intelligence will give you experience with the equipment you’ll use in the field. Through labs, lectures and projects, you’ll also:
- Design and create new software, and modify and test existing software used in a broad range of businesses and industries
- Develop new or improve existing algorithms
- Explore emerging software/hardware technologies
Program highlights
- The student-run Software Engineering and Computer Science Student Society (SCS) organizes coding nights, algorithm practice, tutorials, social events, and networking opportunities.
Special funding for out-of-province students
Up to $4000 for undergraduate programs.
Program structure
A Bachelor of Computer Science degree takes a minimum of three or four years (90 – 120 credits) of full-time study, depending on your academic background.
The core provides a basic and broad study of theory, mathematical basics, programming methodology, computer architecture, data structures, operating systems, and software engineering.
Program options
New students apply for admission to the Bachelor of Computer Science degree. Once you have completed 30 credits, you may apply to the Honours program.
Courses
Core courses
- Computer science core
- Complementary core
Electives
- Computer science electives
- Mathematics electives
- Minor and general electives
Course sequences
Co-op program
The Co-op program gives you the chance to complete paid work terms that last 12 to 16 weeks. As a Co-op student, you will assist in projects designed and implemented by professionals and may also:
- Develop new or improve existing algorithms
- Participate in software quality assurance, programming, debugging and testing
- Prepare project proposals, specifications and software testing plans
Co-op students have completed work terms for employers such as McKesson Canada and NeuroRx Research.
Admission criteria
Minimum cut-off averages and course requirements for admission
- Quebec CEGEP: 27 overall, 26 math
- Admission is based on applicants’ overall Math CRC indicated above and completion of the following classes as part of their DEC: Calculus 1 and Calculus 2 and Linear Algebra
- Students completing a three-year technical DEC may also be eligible for admission
Eligible technical DECs include 420.A0/BO/AA- Advanced standing may be possible
- Overall R score of 28 and if taken, 26 in math
- Additional information for CEGEP applicants
- High School: A- overall, A- math
- One math from Pre-Calculus, Calculus, or equivalent
- Canadian curricula course requirements
- Accepted international qualifications
- ACT or SAT is not required
- AP exams are not required but may qualify you for advanced standing
- International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma: 33 overall, 5 HL or 6 SL math
- Accepted math: Applications and Interpretations HL, Analysis and Approaches SL or HL
- Baccalaureate français: 15 overall, 15 math
- Required courses:
- Première: Spécialité mathématiques
- Terminale: Spécialité mathématiques
- Additional information for Baccalauréat français applicants
- Required courses:
- British system of education (GCE):
- A-levels: At least two A-level exams AB, A in math or
- AS-levels: At least 4 AS-level exams with equivalent results or
- BTEC: Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in a related subject area with equivalent results
- Students without A-level math may be admissible based on AS-level or iGCSE/GCSE/O-Level exam results. Students should include all their exam results from iGCSE (or equivalent) onwards to support their application.
- Additional information for British System of Education (GCE) applicants
- University transfers (internal): 3.0 overall, 3.0 in math, 2.3 in courses offered by the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science
- At least two of the following (or equivalent): MATH 203, 204, 205
- University transfers (external): A- overall, A- in math
- Courses in the disciplines of Calculus and Linear Algebra
Minimum cut-off averages should be used as indicators. The cut-off data may change depending on the applicant pool. Applicants who meet the stated minimum requirements are not guaranteed admission to these programs.
Application deadlines
FALL TERM
March 1 is the deadline to apply for fall term entry. International students are encouraged to apply by February 1 to allow sufficient time for CAQ and study permit application processing.
WINTER
November 1 is the deadline to apply for winter term entry. International students are encouraged to apply by September 1 to allow sufficient time for CAQ and study permit application processing.
Not all programs are available for winter term entry. Please check program availability for the term, before you start your application.
We reserve the right to close admission to a program at any time after the official deadline without prior notice.
Funding note
Quebec residents who enroll in this program and meet the eligibility criteria may apply for funding of $2,500 per term through the Quebec Perspective Bursary (Bourse Perspective Quebec).
United States students: A U.S. Federal Student Aid-eligible version of this program is offered. This version meets all U.S. regulations (such as no co-operative education or e-courses) for eligible programs.
After your degree
Given the range of applications in use today, computer science alumni have established careers in a range of sectors including health care, communications, manufacturing, banking, retail, electronics and entertainment.
Student story
Ghazal Zamani
Bachelor of Computer Science
How software developer Ghazal Zamani found her passion as a student.
Other programs of interest
Without computer hardware there would be no smart phones, DVD players and digital recorders or computerized medical devices. As a computer engineer, your knowledge of computer architecture, digital electronics, circuits and digital communication will lead to new innovations or bring about another information revolution.
Department
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty