Almost any endeavour - whether business, industry or science - needs computer support if it hopes to stay competitive. In fact, many endeavours in these areas are fundamentally if not entirely computer science. No wonder those who design, implement and maintain computer systems are in demand. From solving end-user problems to developing new strategies for increasing the capacity of a system to studying the nature of intelligence or vision, they have the skills the world depends on.

The successful completion of this four-year program leads to a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. Graduates of this program are highly effective and independent computing professionals, capable of working in a wide variety of technical and managerial roles immediately upon graduation. Alternatively, many of our graduates have gone on to complete higher-level degrees at universities in Canada and abroad. The program's careful mix of theory and practice provides our students with a solid background in the core areas of computer science including networking, software engineering, and robotics. This program produces effective computer science professionals who are qualified and in demand.

First-Year Studies
(approximately 20 hours per week): Computer Science I & II, Introduction to C & UNIX, Calculus I & II, Discrete Mathematics I & II, Physics, Liberal Studies (two selections).

In years one and two, you will learn the basics of programming, software engineering, data structures, operating systems and computer architecture. At the same time you will build a firm foundation for problem solving by taking courses in calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, probability, physics, communication, management and liberal studies.

In years three and four, you will study database systems, data communications, artificial intelligence, parsing, algorithms, computer security, and comparison of programming languages. You will also choose from a wide range of computer science electives in areas such as operating systems, software engineering, networks, compiler design, graphics, human-computer interaction, web applications, artificial intelligence, robotics and research (thesis). Your communication skills and background knowledge will be enhanced by four upper-level liberal studies courses and one or two selections from engineering, business or science. You will further your mathematical development with one to three courses from a broad list including statistics, number theory, graph theory, geometry and computability. You may also choose to minor in mathematics.

Throughout their coursework, Ryerson Computer Science students are required to write many practical applications in their assignments. Some courses require the students to do requirements engineering and design and implementation of a large information systems project. The optional thesis course typically requires planning and implementing a significant software system. Many courses have associated labs where students work on practical problems under the supervision of teaching assistants and/or instructors. The computer labs contain about 300 computers and are available 24-7 with Ryerson One-card access.

You'll have the opportunity to apply your newfound expertise to real-life problems in an optional co-op program where you gain valuable work experience and earn a salary. Consisting of five co-op terms integrated into the regular curriculum, the co-op program adds one year to the length of the program.

As a graduate, you'll have the professional flexibility to work in a wide range of computing environments. You may work for the civil service, manufacturers, banks, utilities, computer service and insurance companies, and consulting firms. Some typical starting positions include applications programmer, support programmer/ analyst, and database administrator. You may choose to enter graduate school or start your own consulting business.