Get a degree that computes
At one of the world’s best schools for computer science, you'll develop a broad understanding in areas such as systems and networks, algorithms, and programming.
After first year, you can choose a major in Data Science. You can also gain two years of paid work experience through our co-op program, the largest of its kind in North America, or fast track your degree by choosing the regular system of study.
Your degree is your ticket to career success. Our graduates go on to work in leading technology companies and at top universities around the world. Meanwhile, Waterloo professors and graduates have created more than 800 spin-off companies, including leaders like OpenText, Canada’s largest software company.
Program highlights
- Social and academic support. Through Waterloo’s Computer Science Club, get access to high-powered software or get social with your fellow students.
- Study your interests. With 70+ computer science courses, plus no end of options and electives, you can create a degree tailored to your specific interests.
- Available as a regular or co-op program
- Graduate with a Bachelor of Computer Science or a Bachelor of Mathematics in Computer Science
- Offered by the Faculty of Mathematics
The David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science is largest academic computer science research centre in Canada, ranking 10th in North America and 31st in the world.
What will you learn?
First-year courses
You'll primarily take Mathematics and Computer Science courses to give you the foundations for your upper-year classes, along with a few electives. After first year, the majority of your required courses will be Computer Science.
Learn about courses you'll take for your Computer Science degree.
Customize your degree
You can add additional areas of expertise by including specializations such as artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, or bioinformatics.
Once you're a student, advisors can help you explore which minors or specializations may fit into your plans.
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Monthly topics include how to choose a program, what it's like to be a Waterloo student, the differences between high school and university, and more.
Questions? Ask a student!
Contact a Faculty of Mathematics student ambassador to learn about their experience in the program.
Ask them questions such as why they chose their program, what the classes are like, and how you can get involved on campus.
"I value being able to learn and grow alongside others who share your passion and understand your experience. It's hard work, but also so rewarding. I've grown so much both as a student and as a person in my time here at Waterloo."Stefanie, third-year Computer Science student
"Co-op was the reason I chose Waterloo. No other school was able to offer me six four-month internships. I've explored many different software roles, including systems engineering and test automation as well as full-stack software engineering."Stephanie, Computer Science student
"Being in co-op not only allows you to practise balancing time between job interviews, school, and a social life, but also helps you find your career goals and shapes you into a better leader in the workplace by taking the best from each co-op." Renee, fourth-year Computer Science studentComputer Science admission requirements
Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including
- Advanced Functions
- Calculus and Vectors
- Any Grade 12 U English
- One other 4U course
Recommended: Grade 11 U Introduction to Computer Science
Admission average: Individual selection from the low to mid-90s
Not an Ontario high school student? Search our admission requirements.
How to apply?
Apply directly to this program on your application. Once you've applied, you'll need to complete the Admission Information Form as part of the application process.
We strongly encourage you to participate in the Canadian Computing Competition, Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest (CSMC), and/or the Euclid Mathematics Contest to enhance your admissions status. To be considered for entrance scholarships in the Faculty of Mathematics, you must write the CSMC or the Euclid. If you complete both contests, we'll use the results of the contest in which you performed best.
Connect with us
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Contact Laura Jane Watkins, our Mathematics recruitment coordinator, who can answer any questions you have.
