Program Overview

Business Administration and Computer Science Double Degree

The Business Administration and Computer Science Double Degree program is a unique opportunity for students to earn two degrees in five years, one in computer science from the University of Waterloo and the other in business administration from Wilfrid Laurier University.

Program Description

This program allows students to gain a comprehensive understanding of both computer science and business administration. In the computer science component, students will learn about software, algorithms, programming, and the limits of computation. They will also develop skills in managing large-scale programs and understanding the power, limitations, and organization of computer software and hardware.

In the business administration component, students will develop a broad understanding of business by taking a variety of courses in all functional areas, including brand communication, accounting, human resource management, marketing, finance, financial planning, supply chain management, insurance and risk management, and entrepreneurship. Students can specialize in any of these areas to focus their studies.

Admissions

To be considered for this program, students must apply to both the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University. The program is created identically at each school, and students will select their "home school" by accepting their offer from either institution. The "home school" will provide support for services such as co-op, scholarships, and housing.

It is mandatory for students to complete an Admission Information Form (AIF) with their application to be considered for this program.

Co-op

The co-op sequence for this program requires students to satisfy four to five work terms over the course of the BBA/BCS program. The co-op sequence is as follows:

• Year 1: Fall (1A), Winter (1B)
• Year 2: Fall (2A), Winter (2B), Spring (work term)
• Year 3: Fall (3A), Winter (3B), Spring (work term)
• Year 4: Fall (4A), Winter (4B), Spring (work term)
• Year 5: Fall (5A), Winter (5B)

Specializations

Students can explore additional areas of interest in their studies by adding a specialization in their second year. Available specializations include:

• Bioinformatics
• Digital Hardware
• Software Engineering

Course descriptions for these specializations are available in the Undergraduate Calendar.

First Year Courses

The first year courses for this program include:

• Introduction to Computer Science/Designing Functional Programs (CS 115, CS 135, or CS 145)
• Elementary Algorithm Design and Data Abstraction (CS 136 or CS 146)
• Calculus 1 (MATH 127, MATH 137, or MATH 147)
• Calculus 2 (MATH 128, MATH 138, or MATH 148)
• Algebra (MATH 135 or MATH 145)
• Linear Algebra (MATH 136 or MATH 146)
• Business (BUS 111 and BUS 121)

Course descriptions are available in the Undergraduate Calendar.

Graduate Studies

Following their undergraduate degree, students can continue their studies through the graduate studies program or pursue their Chartered Professional Accounting designation. At the University of Waterloo, students can pursue a Master of Mathematics (MMath) with a specialization in Computer Science and fast track their degree with the accelerated master's program. An Undergraduate Research Assistantship (URA) will allow students to try their hand at research before applying.

Additional courses through Wilfrid Laurier can provide students with the tools to be successful in the world of accounting by earning their Chartered Professional Accounting designation (CPA).