The Bachelor of Computing and Financial Management (BCFM) is a specialized degree that represents major comprehension in computer science as well as finance, complemented by real-world work experience through co-op. This degree is challenging to achieve and is completed by a select number of students.
To achieve this degree, you will need to:
- complete a structured set of 40 courses as outlined in the relevant Undergraduate Calendar,
- maintain co-op eligibility with an overall average of 60%+,
- complete co-op requirements including five to six work terms and five professional development courses,
- and be in “Good” or “Excellent” academic standing
These rules and regulations are outlined in the Undergraduate Studies Academic Calendar. Know that the Undergraduate Studies Academic Calendar is updated in most years, which can affect CFM course and co-op requirements going forward, as curriculum and course descriptions and codes are updated. You are expected to follow one calendar so that your degree requirements stay the same for the entirety of your studies and so that you can refer to that one calendar for your degree requirements.
Understanding your undergraduate studies academic calendar
What is the Undergraduate Studies Academic Calendar?
The undergraduate calendar is the University's official rule book. It details academic policies, degree/program requirements, course descriptions, pre-requisites, and important dates (like deadlines and holidays) for you and other students. It is your guide to successfully navigating your degree for graduation. The undergraduate studies academic calendar is your official contract with the University, and it includes all relevant policies and regulations and your academic obligations.
Which undergraduate studies academic calendar is relevant to me?
The relevant Undergraduate Calendar that applies to you and your studies is normally the calendar that was in effect when you began your first year in the Computing and Financial Management (CFM) program. For example, if you began your studies in 2025, refer to the 2025-2026 calendar for your degree requirements. However, it is possible to follow another academic calendar, following any year when you began your studies.
In choosing a different calendar to follow, it is important to note that...
- You may choose to follow any undergraduate calendar issued during your studies starting from the year that you began at UWaterloo.
- You are required to meet ALL the conditions and requirements of ONE calendar, including any new academic policies. You may not pick and choose requirements from different calendars.
- The calendar changes each year and defaults to the newest version of the calendar. Make sure to navigate to your calendar in the Undergraduate Studies Academic Calendar under "Archives" (at the top of the page).
When you search for the Undergraduate Studies Academic Calendar, it defaults to the most recent year of degree requirements, so make sure to follow your specific calendar. It is recommended that you bookmark your calendar in your browser from the "Archives".
Summary of degree requirements
In addition to satisfying your course requirements and maintaining co-op eligibility, you must complete the following to graduate with a Bachelor of Computing and Financial Management:
| Requirements | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Minimum course units [excluding Professional Development (PD) courses] | 20.0 units |
| Minimum co-op work-term units | 2.5 units |
| Minimum PD course units | 2.5 units |
| Minimum work reports | 2.0 units |
| Minimum Cumulative Average (CAV) — be in “good” or “excellent” academic standing | 60% |
| Minimum Major Average (MAV) | 60% |
| Minimum Special Major Average (SMAV) | 70% |
| Maximum excluded/failed course units (excluding PD courses and co-op work term reports) | 2.0 units |
| Maximum allowed units of course attempts (excluding PD courses and co-op work term reports) | 25.0 units |
| Minimum number of full-time terms | 8 full-time terms |
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Resources
Find out more about academic standing and how it is evaluated each term and discover how to plan out your courses to satisfy your requirements.
Questions?
If you have any questions about your academics or degree requirements, reach out to the Program Manager for academic advising and support. They can assist you with your course planning and help you navigate your requirements for graduation.