Computer Science Major

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Program Overview

Computer Science is a fast paced and exciting field. After a short 2 or 3 decades, computer science now pervades in virtually every other academic discipline. In the Computer Science program, students will have the chance to prepare for graduate studies and professional work in any field of application for Information Technology. Students will explore a wide range of subjects and problem areas by looking at theoretical computer science, numerical analysis, data management systems, computer graphics and artificial intelligence, systems, and software engineering. This program provides fundamental knowledge of the foundations of computer science: modern computer software and hardware, theoretical aspects of computer science, and relevant areas of mathematics and statistics. This program is intended to be combined with other programs.

Complementary Programs: Mathematics, Statistics, Applied Statistics, Management & Finance, Geographic Information Systems, Biology (esp. Bioinformatics), Physics, Chemistry and a cornucopia of others.

Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:

1. Competencies & Skills

Computational thinking and problem solving.
Solid understanding of algorithms, data structures, and software design principles.
Ability to identify computational problems, select appropriate tools for solving them, and build a solution that is technically sound and effectively solves the problem.

2. Careers for Graduates

Software Engineer in any field of application of computer science
Information Technology consultant
Systems Designer
Data modelling and visualization
Mobile App Developer
Entrepreneurship and high-tech innovation
Computer security

3. Further Education

Computer Science
Computer Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Bioinformatics
Financial Engineering
Business Administration
Project Management
Knowledge/Skills Certifications

Program Pathway

Year 1
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY	3.0 core credits as follows: CSCA08H3, CSCA48H3, CSCA67H3, MATA22H3, MATA31H3, MATA37H3. 2.0 elective credits: Explore courses in other disciplines; this will also help to fulfill degree-level breadth requirements. Use Degree Explorer to plan your courses and program of interest.
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS	Attend CTL’s Facilitated Study Groups to help you understand the course content. Get writing support at CTL’s Writing Centre. Schedule an appointment with your Program Librarian for in-depth research assistance with your assignments.
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE	Attend the UTSC Faculty Mix & Mingle Fair to connect with professors and learn more about their specialties. Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learning and Work-Integrated Learning opportunities on CLNx.
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)	Join the Association of Mathematics and Computer Science Students (AMACSS) and get involved in their events. Volunteer in DSL’s Alternative Reading Week to gain experience and knowledge about social change and community development.
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER	Volunteer with organizations to explore your interests; check listings on CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment). Attend the Get Experience Fair in September and register with SCSU’s Volunteer Network Program to explore opportunities.
Year 2
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY	3.0 core credits as follows: CSCB07H3, CSCB09H3, CSCB36H3, CSCB58H3, CSCB63H3, and 0.5 credit from: MATB24H3, STAB52H3. Students are urged to take a writing course in first or second year (see list of courses in the Calendar). Meet with the Department Academic Advisor or CS Program Supervisor to ensure you are on track with your degree.
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS	Further develop your general academic skills by attending workshops offered by the Academic Advising & Career Centre (AA&CC) and Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Visit CTL’s Math & Statistics Learning Centre for tutoring services.
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE	Get involved in relevant opportunities on and/or off campus; apply to Work Study, or other part-time and summer jobs on CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment).
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)	Check CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment) for Work Study or volunteer positions on campus to gain experience and to get involved.
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER	Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment). Speak to professors and program advisors so you know what to keep in mind for grad school. Explore careers through AA&CC’s Job Shadowing and In The Field programs. Apply for DSL’s All-In Leadership program. et Considering grad school? Speak to professors and advisors early so you are on track. Explore careers through the AA&CC’s Job Shadowing and In The Field programs.
Year 3
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY	1.0 core credit in numerical computation and theory of computing: CSCC37H3, and 0.5 credit from: CSCC63H3, CSCC73H3. 1.0 CSC elective credit: choose any two C- or D-level CSC courses other than CSCD03H3 (Year 3 or 4). Use Degree Explorer to ensure you are on track with your degree.
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS	Consider competing for the UTSC Library Undergraduate Research Prize or Poster Forum. Check the department website for summer research and scholarship opportunities.
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE	Build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, student groups, DSL and the AA&CC.
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)	Run for an elected position in AMACSS or another student group or club. Look into volunteering or working overseas to expand your network through International Student Centre’s (ISC) Global Learning programs.
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER	Plan a career path with a staff member at the AA&CC. Check CLNx for networking events and employer information sessions to attend. Attend the Graduate & Professional School Fair in September.
Year 4 or Final Year
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY	Ensure you have fulfilled your degree-level breadth requirements. Use Degree Explorer to ensure you are on track to graduate. Register your “Intent to Graduate” on ACORN by the deadline.
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS	Apply for an Academic Travel Fund through Department of Student Life (DSL) to research, present at a conference, or engage with the international academic community.
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE	Attend the Summer & Full-time Job Fair in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for summer and full-time positions relevant to your field.
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)	Participate in the AA&CC’s Partners in Leadership program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning to work or further education.
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER	Attend the AA&CC’s Get Hired job search conference in April/May. Attend a Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search “crash course” and for access to full-time job listings. Get your personal statement reviewed in the AA&CC.

Contacts

Departmental Contact: Susan Calanza, susan.calanza@utoronto.ca, 647-601-4645
Computer Science Librarian: Mariana Jardim, mariana.jardim@utoronto.ca, 416-208-2987
Academic Advising & Career Centre: Room AC213, 416-287-7561
Department of Student Life: Room SL157, 416-208-4760
Association of Mathematical and Computer Science Students (AMACSS)

Did You Know

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, by 2020 there will be 1.4 million new computer science jobs.