What is Computer Science?
Computer science encompasses topics related to computers, software, and their application to today's most challenging problems. At the internationally renowned David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science, you'll study computer algorithms and programming, and explore exciting areas such as artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, networks, databases, quantum computing, graphics, scientific computing, security, and software engineering.
Meet Jonathan
If you've been on a Faculty tour, or attended an event, you've probably met Jonathan. Not only is he welcoming guests to campus as a Math Ambassador, he also helps to train new tour guides. He's also leading the charge during Orientation, donning his pink tie and guiding a team through the welcome process.
A previous finance director for MathSoc, Jonathan is also involved with CS4U Day, an annual event held by the School of Computer Science, involving hundreds of high school students, teachers, and families who come to campus for an exciting day of speakers and hands-on activities.
Back home in Toronto, he volunteers with elderly, low-income Holocaust survivors, providing friendship and delivering meals. And in his spare time, you can find him at his computer, coding for his side projects.
"I'm proud to be a mathie because of the people and the community. The people in the math faculty at Waterloo are really amazing, and I've made some really great friends during my time here."
Specializations
You can explore additional areas of interest with your Computer Science studies by adding a specialization in your second year to customize your degree.
- Artificial intelligence
- Bioinformatics
- Business
- Computational fine arts
- Digital hardware
- Human-computer interaction
- Software engineering
Your first year
All first-year students take a common selection of math courses called core courses. Normally in the fall term, students take:
- Classical Algebra (MATH 135 or MATH 145),
- Calculus 1 (MATH 137 or MATH 147), and
- Computer Science (CS) (one of CS 115, CS 135, or CS 145).
- A communications course
- One non-math elective*
*Note: Please visit the first-year course selection website for information about recommended electives and additional details.
Potential co-op and career opportunities
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Contact the computer science advisors for more information
