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Computer Science (BCS)

Develop advanced computing skills for the digital age.

Program Type
Bachelor
Faculty
Locations
Program Start
September and January
Program Options
Honours
Minor

Why choose this program?

Whether or not you have programming experience, this program will help you become a creator of new technologies and gain a deep understanding of the theory, design and application of computer science by exploring a wide range of areas including software development, algorithms, networking and graphics. You’ll not only become a strong programmer but will master the skills needed to shape how we'll use computers and interact with each other in the future.

Admission requirements

Minimum admission requirements

To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:

  1. Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
  2. Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
  3. Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).

Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

Program-specific admission requirements

We're looking for:

  • Pre-calculus math

  • Grade 12 English

  • 3 additional acceptable university-prep courses 

Minimum final grades

  • Pre-calculus math: 75%

  • English: 65%

  • Other subjects: 60% 

  • Overall average: 70%

Financial information

A university education is a significant financial investment. Every student is unique, and so are their financial circumstances. We offer competitive tuition, a robust scholarship and bursary program, and resources and support to help you explore financial options and develop a plan that works for you. 

Program options

Dal’s Computer Science program offers the opportunity to apply classroom theory through career-focused work experience and by using emerging technologies in our innovation playground.  

You can customize your degree by earning certificates and minors, or by jump-starting your graduate degree through the Bachelor of Science Honours program. If you thrive in a smaller campus environment, consider doing the first year in the Truro Start Program.  

If you’re studying in another program, consider minoring in Computer Science. You’ll gain a foundational understanding of computer science which will complement your primary degree.

Enhance your studies with career-focused work experience. Co-op allows you to apply classroom theory, explore career options and build your resume through paid work experience. Pursue an international exchange placement or a certificate. The possibilities are endless!


The following Computer Science program options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Faculty of Computer Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:  

  • Bachelor of Computer Science 

  • Bachelor of Computer Science with Honours

  • Bachelor of Computer Science with Co-op  

  • Minor in Computer Science

  • Certificates including Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Systems, Communication Technologies and Cyber Security, Data Science, Graphics, Gaming, and Media, User Experience Design and Evaluation, Web & Mobile Development

What you will learn

In this program, you’ll gain the foundational knowledge to create new and innovative technologies. Courses in software development, algorithms, networking, cloud and web computing, databases, graphics, machine learning and user interface design allow students to develop areas of specialized expertise.

Sample courses may include:

  • Society and Technology before the Age of Automation

  • Introduction to Web Design and Development

  • Calculus in Computer Science

  • Introduction to Computer Systems 

  • Theory of Computer Science

  • Software Development

  • Workplace Communications for Computer Science

  • Introduction to Probability and Statistics I 

  • Algorithm Analysis I

  • Programming Languages

  • Network Computing

  • Social, Ethical and Professional Issues in Computer Science 

  • Software Engineering

  • Foundations of Data Science

  • Designing User Interfaces

  • Network Computing 

By the end of your degree, you will have developed the knowledge and skills to build, influence and evaluate the technology of the future.

Careers

Choosing Computer Science at Dalhousie opens you up to a world of opportunity. Computer science impacts almost everything in our lives, from business and science to entertainment and medicine, and farming and agriculture. With the rise of emerging technologies such as AI, it is becoming increasingly important to get ahead and develop the skills needed to build our future. Careers in technology also have one of the highest paying salaries for undergrads with our new graduates earning an average starting salary of $80,000+..

Computer Science at Dalhousie University gives you access to education from some of the leading faculty and industry professionals in one of the fastest growing tech hubs in the country.

Future studies could include programs at the graduate level in computer science, electronic commerce, or health informatics.