Our world is becoming increasingly technological and complex. Every day, we learn about the creation of new technology, so it's no wonder that computer programming careers are becoming increasingly popular and in high demand in today's landscape.
If you are considering becoming a computer programmer in Canada, you have come to the right place. Here, you'll find the best computer science degrees and some tips to start your coding journey on the right foot—read on to learn more!
Eight Best Universities for Computer Science in Canada
- University of Toronto
- University of Waterloo
- McGill University
- Université de Montréal
- Concordia University
- University of British Columbia
- University of Alberta
- University of Windsor

1. University of Toronto
- Degree: Honours Bachelor of Science
- Program: Computer Science (Major, Minor, Specialist)
Computer science students will gain experience in designing computer programs, creating computer applications such as databases, and exploring mathematical issues. They will acquire scientific knowledge and innovative skills to thrive in this field. In addition, they will also have the opportunity to work closely with a professor on a research or development project.
Admission requirements
- Calculus & Vectors: Advanced Functions (MHF4U) and Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) are essential.
- English Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you may need to provide proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS).
- Supplemental Application Required: Many universities require a supplementary application where you can showcase your skills and interests.
Factors affecting acceptance
- High academic achievement: Strong grades in relevant courses.
- Competitive applicant pool: There is high competition due to many qualified applicants.
Tuition fees
- Domestic Students - Ontario Residents: 6,100 CAD (one term).
- Domestic Students - Outside of Ontario: 6,910 CAD (one term).
- International Students: 61,720 CAD (one term).
University of Toronto's Computer Science program's tuition fees vary depending on your residency status and the campus you attend (St. George, Mississauga, and Scarborough).
Address
The University of Toronto - Faculty of Arts and Science: Department of Computer Science; 100 St George St, Toronto, ON M5S 3G3, Canada.
Other computer programming courses in Toronto
- Juno: Live Online instruction or in-person courses for professionals acquiring more tech skills.
- Real Programming 4 Kids: Place for kids to learn computer programming through personalized instruction.
- General Assembly: They offer training in Tech, Data, Design, and Business for beginners.
- Geekedu: Computer Science and Mathematics courses regardless of the student's background.
- BrainStation: They offer courses for becoming a Web Developer, a UX Designer, a Data Scientist, a Digital Marketer, and a Data Analyst.
Do you want to learn more about computer programming and coding courses in Toronto, Ontario? Find out more with Superprof.
2. University of Waterloo
- Degree: Bachelor of Computer Science or a Bachelor of Mathematics in Computer Science.
- Program: Computer Science (major in Data Science; available as co-op program).
Through the Computer Science program at the University of Waterloo, you will develop extensive knowledge in systems and networks, algorithms, and programming. You'll primarily take Mathematics and Computer Science courses. After your first year, you can specialize in Data Science and gain two years of paid work experience through their co-op program. You can also specialize in artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, or bioinformatics.
Admission requirements
- Six Grade 12 U and M courses: Advanced Functions and Calculus and Vectors.
- English: If English is not your first language, you may need to provide proof of English proficiency (any Grade 12 U English).
Factors affecting acceptance
The university will select students based on their overall academic performance. Most accepted students have an average grade in the low to mid-90s range.
Tuition fees
- Domestic Students - Ontario Residents: 17,000 CAD (two terms).
- Domestic Students - Outside of Ontario: 18,000 CAD (two terms).
- International Students: 73,000 CAD (two terms).
Address
University of Waterloo - Faculty of Mathematics; 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, Ontario N2L, Canada.

3. McGill University
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- Program: Computer Science
This McGill University program will teach you about software engineering, programming languages, robotics, compilers, databases, game design and development, operating systems, artificial intelligence, computational biology, computer vision, and algorithm analysis. As a Computer Science student, you can take programming fundamentals, software design, discrete structures, and algorithm design courses.
Admission requirements
- Domestic Students - Ontario Residents: 4U English or French; 4U Calculus and Vectors; Two of 4U Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
- Domestic Students - Outside of Ontario: Grade 12 English or French; Grade 12 math (precalculus or calculus); two Grade 12 Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
- International Students: The university's admission criteria vary depending on your international background.
Factors affecting acceptance
The university will select students based on their overall academic performance. Most accepted students have an average grade in the low to mid-90s range.
Tuition fees
- Domestic Students - Quebec Residents: 5,450.19 CAD (one year).
- Domestic Students - Outside of Quebec: 11,842.89 CAD (one year).
- International Students: 64,401.69 CAD (one year).
Address
McGill University - Faculty of Science; Dawson Hall, 853 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G5.
4. Université de Montréal
- Degree: Bachelor of Science
- Program: Computer Science (Baccalauréat en informatique)
The bachelor's degree in computer science focuses on the fundamental aspects of computer science. It is based on a common core of theoretical foundations, programming, and maths applied to computer science and optimization. The program addresses the teaching of software engineering, artificial intelligence, computer graphics, theoretical and quantum computer science, and computational biology.
Admission requirements
- GPA required: 3.0 on a 4.3 scale (82%).
- French language proficiency: B2 or 605 on/DALF/TEF. 605/990 on TFI.
- Proof of PR or Canadian citizenship if applicable.
- Letter of recommendation if applicable.
Factors affecting acceptance
A specific degree does not guarantee admission, as admission requirements depend on each program's description and the student's background. Some programs may require more training than indicated.
Tuition fees
- Domestic Students - Quebec Residents: 2,000 CAD (one year).
- Domestic Students - Outside of Quebec: 7,500 CAD (one year).
- International Students: 33,012 CAD (one year).
Address
Faculty of Arts and Science - Department of Computer Science and Operations Research; Pavillon André-Aisenstadt, 2920, Chemin de la Tour, Montréal QC, H3T 1J4.
5. Concordia University
- Degree: Bachelor of Computer Science (BCompSc)
- Program: Computer Science
The program provides a foundation of theoretical fundamentals and practical experience through labs, lectures, and projects. You can design and create new software, develop new algorithms, or improve existing ones. Prospective students can apply for admission to the Honors program. The university's Co-op program offers paid internships lasting 12 to 16 weeks.
Admission requirements
- Quebec CEGEP: 28 overall, 26 Math CRC: Calculus 1, Calculus 2, and Linear Algebra.
- High School: Pre-Calculus, Calculus, or equivalent. Verify accepted qualifications for international students.
- International Baccalaureate (IB): 33 overall, 5 HL or 6 SL math; Accepted math: Applications and Interpretations HL, Analysis and Approaches SL or HL.
- Baccalaureate français: 15 overall, 15 math; Required courses (Spécialité mathématiques).
- British system of education (GCE): A-level exams AB, A in math or 4 AS-level exams; BTEC Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma.
- Language requirements: English proficiency is required for your application.
- Supporting documents: Submit unofficial copies of transcripts.
Factors affecting acceptance
The minimum admission requirements depend on your academic background: Quebec CEGEP, Canadian high school, International high school, Home-schooled, Mature student, or University or college transfer. Also, some programs require you to provide additional supporting documents to the department you are applying to.
Tuition fees:
- Quebec residents (2023-24 rates): 4,622 CAD
- Out-of-province Canadians and residents (Fall 2024): 13,741 CAD
- French and Francophone Belgian citizens: 10,712 CAD
- US and international students: 35,611 CAD
Address
Concordia University - Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering - Sir George Williams (SGW) campus; 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. West Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3G 1M8.
Other computer programming courses in Montreal
If you want to check out more computer programming courses in Montreal, Quebec, read on:
- Computer Science Technology at LaSalle College (DEC): You will develop programming skills and product development methodology.
- Computer Science Technician LEA at the Montreal College of Information Technology: The program aims to prepare students for software development, network/systems design, and coding.
- The Computer Science Technology Program at Dawson College teaches students software systems and web, mobile, and cloud-based applications.

6. University of British Columbia
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- Program: Computer Science
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) at UBC offers a study of Computer Science with additional options in maths courses, computer software design, and a wide selection of other computer science studies. You'll also find Majors as Software Engineering option; and combined Majors: Combined Major Specializations (BSc); Honors and Combined Honors Programs; and Minors.
Admissions requirements:
- General admission: Minimum of 70% in Grade 11 or Grade 12 English and at least six academic/non-academic Grade 12 courses.
- Language proficiency: IELTS 6.5, no part less than 6.0; PTE or PTE online Academic: Overall: 65 and TOEFL or TOEFL IBT: 90.
- Science degree-specific requirements: English Studies 12 or English First Peoples 12; Pre-Calculus 12; Anatomy and Physiology 12, Chemistry 12, or Physics 12.
Factors affecting acceptance
Admission to UBC is competitive, and several factors influence the decision-making process, such as academic performance, participation in extracurricular activities, and specific program requirements. Go to the UBC admissions page and verify eligibility according to your background.
Tuition fees
- Domestic student tuition: 5,960 CAD
- International student tuition: 48,610 CAD
Address
UBC Department of Computer Science; 2366 Main Mall #201, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada.
Other computer programming courses in Vancouver
If you are interested in finding programming courses in Vancouver, here are some options that could be precisely what you need:
- Computer Science program at Vancouver Island University (VIU): The program emphasizes programming skills, design and database and systems analysis skills.
- Computer Systems Technology Diploma at Vancouver Community College: The diploma will help you build skills in programming, design, mobile apps, and security.
- Computer Science Diploma at Douglas College: This program emphasizes computer programming and programming languages.
- Diploma in Computer Science at Langara College: The college offers a Diploma in Computer Studies with a foundation in computer science and information systems education.
- Computer Systems Technology at BCIT: This two-year diploma program combines theory with practical experience in software development.
7. University of Alberta
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (BSc), Specialization, (BSc) Honors and (BSc) General.
- Program: Computer Science.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is an open program for students who wish to pursue a focused study or combine the study of computer science with 21 other available options. The program features a wide range of programming, algorithms, hardware, software design, user interfaces, and project management courses for students interested in building software.
Admissions requirements
- General admission: Completion of five specific Grade 12 subjects.
- English Language Proficiency: You will need a total score of 9 on the TOEFL Internet-Based Test or 6.5 on the IELTS Academic.
- Provincial course equivalents: Admission to U of A requires that you meet specific high school requirements, whether you come directly from high school or another post-secondary institution.
- Competitive average: To be considered for admission, you need to present a competitive average for your faculty or program of choice. For science, the average should be in the mid-80s to low 90s.
- Payment of application fee: You must submit an application fee of 125 CAD.
- International Admission Requirements: Admission is based on your academic history, completion of required subjects, English proficiency, and grades. Visit the international curricula admission for more information.
Factors affecting acceptance
You must submit a competitive GPA for your faculty/program of choice to be considered for admission. The competitive average for each faculty/program may change throughout the year, depending on the competitiveness of the applicant pool.
Tuition fees
- Canadian students: 7,000 CAD (one year).
- International students: 7,000 CAD (one year).
Address
University of Alberta - Department of Computing Science; 2-21 Athabasca Hall, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E8.
Other computer programming courses in Edmonton
If you want to learn computer programming in Edmonton, check these out:
- Computer Engineering Technology at NAIT: This two-year diploma program involves designing, building, and programming computers, as well as extensive hands-on training.
- MacEwan University programs: These programs aim to develop creative and analytical thinking, research, and information.
- Computing Science Diploma at King's University: Through this diploma, you will learn current programming languages, database design, software engineering, and modeling.

8. University of Windsor
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- Program: Computer Science
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is a four-year honors program designed for students seeking for a career in Software Engineering. Therefore, you will have an introduction to Algorithms and Programming, Systems Programming, and Computer Architecture. You will also find a Co-op Program, Applied Computing, Computer Information Systems BSc, Software Engineering Specialization BSc, and Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT).
Admission requirements
- Course Requirements: Advanced Functions, English, Calculus, and Vectors.
- Minimum Average: 70% average of math courses.
- Minimum Average (Co-op): 75% (Co-op Programs: 75% + 70% average in all math courses.
- Mean Average: 82%
- International Admission Requirements: Academic history, required subjects, English proficiency, and grades are mandatory for international students. Visit the international admission for more information based on your case.
Factors affecting acceptance
Academic performance is one of the most crucial factors that could affect your admission, and some programs may have additional requirements such as portfolio or audition requirements.
Tuition fees
- Domestic Students - Ontario Residents: 7,000 - 8,000 CAD (per year).
- Domestic Students - Outside of Ontario: 10,000 - 12,000 CAD (per year).
- International Students: 28,000 - 32,000 CAD per year.
Address
University of Windsor Campus; Lambton Tower, Sunset Ave Room 2100, Windsor, ON N9B 3P4, Canada.
Other computer programming courses in Windsor
Check out more options to learn coding in Windsor, Ontario, that can help you achieve your goals:
- Computer Science Program at Algoma University: Algoma University offers a Computer Science program in Sault Ste. Marie and Brampton.
- Computer Systems Technology Program at St Clair's College: The program focuses on advanced computer network administration and security.
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