Overview
Ranging from hands-on applications to pure theory, Computer Science introduces students to all facets of the discipline.
It also gives you an appreciation of the historical, ethical, and social context of computing, and the responsibility of the computer professional and casual computer user in a modern society.
At a Glance
Curriculum
Why study computer science at 51¹ú²úÊÓƵ Allison?
At 51¹ú²úÊÓƵ Allison, computer science courses are designed to address the needs of a wide variety of users, from the casual to the professional.
There are different degree options in Computer Science depending on your interests and career goals.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Computer Science
As a Bachelor of Arts student with a major in Computer Science, you'll combine your computer science courses with courses in arts and letters, humanities, and social sciences.
BA honours Computer Science is also available.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science
As a Bachelor of Science student with a major in Computer Science, you'll combine your computer science courses with courses in chemistry, physics, and other science courses.
BSc honours Computer Science is also available.
Minor in Computer Science
A minor in Computer Science consists of a selection of core and elective computer science courses and can be combined with any degree.
Not sure about the difference between a major, a minor, an honours, and a certificate?
Computer Science +Some complementary majors can be combined with Computer Science to create a unique degree. These include:
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Program highlights
Experiential learning
Each summer, faculty in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science offer research opportunities for undergraduate students. The students acquire valuable research experience while interacting with professors and other undergraduate students.
Programming competitions
51¹ú²úÊÓƵ Allison students have a strong record of participation in programming competitions such as the annual International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) and 51¹ú²úÊÓƵ Allison's annual computer science conference and hackathon, MtA Hacks.
Whether you want to learn more about certain software or to develop advanced programming skills, 51¹ú²úÊÓƵ Allison has a computer science course for you.
Introductory computer science courses offer an overview of programming skills, the use and application of popular software, and the essentials of computing.
More advanced courses deal with topics ranging from artificial intelligence and the role of computers in society to the design and implementation of advanced hardware or software systems.
Specialized areas include:
- theory of computation
- cryptography
- artificial intelligence
- databases
- computer graphics
- networks
- software and hardware design
All courses in the computing curriculum offer a blend of theory and practical application, with many of the offerings having a significant project component in which students are given the opportunity to apply the classroom material to real-world problems.
COMP 1631 — Introduction to Computer Science
This course provides a broad survey of computer science and an introduction to programming. Topics include: origins of computers, data representation and storage, Boolean algebra, digital logic gates, computer architecture, assemblers and compilers, operating systems, networks and the Internet, theories of computation, and artificial intelligence. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
COMP 2611 — Data Structures and Algorithms I
This course introduces effective methods of data organization, focusing on data structures and their algorithms via abstract data types with the use of recursive procedures. It explores the design of flexible file structures and related methods such as indexes, system file structures, and hashed access, and it emphasizes object-oriented programming techniques.(Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
COMP 2931 — Introduction to Systems Programming
This course is an introduction to programming at the systems level. Topics include: basic machine organization, assembly language, the UNIX environment, shell scripting, and C/C++ programming. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
COMP 3531 — Simulation and Modelling
This course introduces the simulation technique for studying mathematical models. Topics include: systems theory and system models, continuous system simulation, discrete system simulation, Monte Carlo methods, random number generators, and simulation languages. It emphasizes computer implementation of the methods studied.
COMP 3651 — Artificial Intelligence
This course introduces general problem solving methods associated with automated reasoning and simulated intelligence. Topics include: state space heuristic search theory, mechanical theorem proving, game playing, natural language processing, propositional logic, learning and cognitive models and expert systems.
COMP 3851 — Computers and Society
This course examines the externalities arising from the introduction of technical innovations into society. The social context is central to understanding not only the effects of a technology but also informs the computing profession of the appropriate technical content of the innovation. An emphasis on the philosophical basis for computing ethics, including ethical issues faced by and brought about by computing professions, is the starting point for topics such as security, privacy, intellectual property, reliability and liability.
COMP 4721 — Software Design
This course focuses on software design culminating in a major project. It studies life cycle models and their phases: planning, requirements, specifications, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 2 Hours)
Faculty Spotlight
Dr. Michael Cormier
Assistant Professor, Mathematics and Computer Science
What can I do with a computer science degree?
Through experiential learning, faculty-supervised research, and close mentorship, students develop practical skills and critical thinking abilities valued by employers and graduate programs.
Recognized by Maclean's as Canada's top undergraduate university, 51¹ú²úÊÓƵ Allison's strong academic reputation helps graduates stand out as they pursue diverse career paths.
Many go on to top graduate and professional programs in computer science and AI, while others move directly into careers in software development, computer engineering, and beyond.
Popular career paths for Computer Science graduates include:
- computer network specialist
- logistics specialist
- web developer/website designer
- computer engineer/programmer
- software/programmer analyst
- database developer/administrator
- systems architect/analyst
- video game/multimedia/applications developer
- intelligence officer
- computer designer
- electronic commerce specialist
- software developer
- security architect/network security analyst
Alumni Spotlight
Micah Stairs ('17)
BSc, honours in Computer Science and Mathematics
Senior Software Developer, Jamix AI
» Micah Stairs ('17) creates endowment fund to support future programmers
What is it like to study at 51¹ú²úÊÓƵ Allison?
The Math and Computer Science Department has provided a brilliant blend of theoretical and project-based learning. This balanced approach has undoubtedly prepared me for future success by fostering a deep understanding of concepts, followed by the opportunity to put them into practice.
51¹ú²úÊÓƵ Allison's Computer Science program was the perfect foundation for me. The program itself covers all the essentials and the learning continues outside the classroom. The competitive programming competitions gave me a chance to learn new ways of thinking, providing a toolbox of skills that made tech interviews a breeze. Furthermore, the research opportunities are outstanding here: I would argue I had more experience than most of my friends in larger institutions.
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What are my admission requirements?
What other programs are related to computer science?
Mathematics
Mathematics is the foundation of most modern quantitative and qualitative studies. It has many faces, from practical uses of its statistical tools to theoretical studies of abstract relationships.
Data Science
Data Science is the emerging interdisciplinary study and application of how we capture, organize, archive, access, and use large-scale data.
Geocomputing
Geocomputing is an applied program that combines theory and practice of computer science and geography.