Computer Science (BA)

Solve problems, innovate and make life better through technology. Computer Science at Laurier includes the fundamentals of programming, algorithm design and computation. You’ll also study applications – everything from internet computing and writing mobile apps to applied cryptography and quantum computing. This program provides the opportunity for double majoring, allowing you to leverage your technical training to solve problems in diverse fields if you choose to pursue it. Computer Science is also offered as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree.

Program Details

Degree Highlights

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Career Ready Curriculum: Your Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Computer Science will give you an edge in career markets where employers often seek people who can analyze and communicate effectively as well as code. 
  • Start with a Solid Foundation: Your first-year courses in Computer Science and Math will give you a solid understanding of the basic principles of computer science while your Arts courses will let you explore your complementary interests. 
  • Personalize Your Degree: Our Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Computer Science lets you combine technical training with learning in another area, typically from the Faculty of Arts.

 

Top Experiences

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for even more!):

  • Co-op: If you choose to combine your Computer Science program with a program that offers co-op, you can apply for a co-op at the end of your first year.  
  • Hands-on Learning Opportunities: Early-year courses have a laboratory component where you’ll apply concepts learned in the lectures. 
  • Professional Experience Program: You can apply for the Professional Experience Program, which consists of a 12- to 16-month work term between your third and fourth years.  
  • Research Opportunities: Partner with your professors in research projects, or team up with local organizations to support the development of your local community. 

Courses, Options and Pathways

Courses

Program Options

Admissions

  • Format: full time or part time
  • Duration: four years
  • Start: September (fall term) or January (winter term)

Your Career Awaits

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

Here are just some examples of our graduates' destinations. What’s yours?

Sample Career Options

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

  • business systems analyst
  • chief information officer
  • computer security specialist
  • database administrator
  • information systems manager
  • software developer
  • systems engineer
  • video game developer

Explore more careers.

Support After Graduation

Alumni for life means that you have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

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Tuition and Scholarships

Getting a university education is an investment in your future.

At Laurier, we take financial health seriously by providing a wide variety of funding opportunities for you throughout your degree, such as scholarships and bursaries, and by equipping you with the skills to manage your finances effectively in the years to come.

 

Laurier is among the top 6 percent in the Global 2000 World University Ranking

 

Laurier students engaged in hands-on learning in 2023

 

Laurier graduates employed or in post-graduate studies in 2023

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

Chat with Current Students

Want to know what it’s really like to be in this program? U Community is our Discord server where future Golden Hawks like you can connect with current students to get their first-hand stories and tips on living and learning at Laurier.

Connect with Us

Questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548.889.8888 or see all contact information.


You Belong Here

Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?