Program Overview
Computer Science Degree
The Computer Science degree at the University of Waterloo is a comprehensive program that offers students a broad understanding of systems, networks, algorithms, and programming. With over 70 courses available, students can tailor their degree to their specific interests and skills.
Program Overview
The program combines theory and hands-on practice, allowing students to discover the mathematics that build the framework for emerging technologies from AI to machine learning. After the second year, students can apply to a major in Data Science.
First-Year Courses
In the first year, students may select advanced-stream courses for algebra, calculus, and computer science if they meet the requirements. The first-year courses include:
- CS 135 – Designing Functional Programs
- MATH 135 – Algebra for Honours Mathematics
- MATH 137 – Calculus 1 for Honours Mathematics
- One communication skills course
- One elective
In the second term, students will take:
- CS 136 – Elementary Algorithm Design and Data Abstraction
- CS 136L – Tools and Techniques for Software Development
- MATH 136 – Linear Algebra 1 for Honours Mathematics
- MATH 138 – Calculus 2 for Honours Mathematics
- Two electives
After First Year
The majority of the required courses will be Computer Science courses, with additional courses in the Faculty of Mathematics. With their remaining classes, students can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo.
Sample Upper-Year Courses
Some sample upper-year courses include:
- CS 341 – Algorithms
- CS 449 – Human-Computer Interaction
- CS 459 – Privacy, Cryptography, Network and Data Security
- CS 492 – The Social Implications of Computing
- CS 486 – Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Customizing Your Degree
Students can add additional areas of expertise by including specializations within the program, such as:
- Artificial Intelligence Specialization
- Bioinformatics Specialization
- Business Specialization
- Computational Fine Art Specialization
- Digital Hardware Specialization
- Game Design Specialization
- Human-Computer Interaction Specialization
- Software Engineering Specialization
Faculty and Degree
The program is offered by the Faculty of Mathematics, and students can earn a Bachelor of Computer Science or Bachelor of Mathematics in Computer Science. The program is available as a co-op program and a regular program.
Co-op Program
The co-op program provides students with relevant paid work experience, allowing them to explore potential careers, learn to interview for jobs, and graduate with up to two years of valuable experience. Sample co-op job titles include:
- Full stack developer
- Game programmer
- DevOps engineer
- Technical systems analyst
- Research assistant
- Software developer
Co-op Work-Study Sequence
The co-op work-study sequence typically starts in the second year, with students alternating between school and work every four months. The sequence may vary, but a typical example is:
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Co-op |
| Second | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Third | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fourth | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Fifth | Co-op | Study | - |
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Computer Science program typically pursue careers in technology, such as software development and game development. Recent graduates have worked at companies like Bloomberg, Pinterest, Facebook, Google, and Dropbox.
Student Life
The University of Waterloo offers a range of student life activities, including clubs, services, and social and academic events. The Math Society (MathSoc) and Women in Computer Science (WiCS) are two examples of student organizations that provide support and community for students.
Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for the Computer Science program include:
- Six Grade 12 U and/or M courses, including Advanced Functions, Calculus and Vectors, and any Grade 12 U English
- Recommended: Grade 11 U Introduction to Computer Science
- Admission average: Individual selection from the low to mid-90s
How to Apply
Students can apply directly to the program on their application, and supplementary information forms, including the Admission Information Form, are required for admission. The university will email detailed instructions once the application is received.
Math and Computing Contests
The university strongly encourages students to participate in math and computing contests, such as the Canadian Computing Competition, Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest (CSMC), and Euclid Mathematics Contest, to enhance their admissions status.