Best Universities in Canada to Study Computer Science

It is not possible to think of the modern world without computers. Almost all technologies we come across today are computerised. Given the high scope of the computer field, a computer science career is what every student wishes to pursue. Suppose you love to study computer science and make a career in that field. In that case, Canada will be an ideal destination for you. Canada has some of the best universities in the world that provide a variety of courses in computer science. Besides the country's and universities' cosmopolitan outlook, career prospects in computer science lure thousands of international students to Canada each year. The cost of studying computer science in some of the best universities in Canada is affordable compared to other developed countries. 

List of Universities in Canada for Computer Science

International students benefit a lot from pursuing computer science courses in Canada. Home to some of the oldest and world-renowned institutes, Canada welcomes students from all countries to study computer science across various levels. Given below are some of the best universities in Canada for computer science. These universities have the quality infrastructure, world-leading research capabilities, welcoming environment, and excellent job prospects for computer science students.

1. University of Toronto

Established in 1827, the University of Toronto is one of Canada's oldest and most prestigious universities. The University of Toronto is well-known for its academic excellence and world-class research facilities. The university has three campuses in and around Toronto – St. George, Scarborough, and Mississauga. Hundreds of international students from more than 160 countries study at the University of Toronto.

There are many computer science courses to choose from at the University of Toronto, spread across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. Computer science subjects include programming languages and methodology, numerical analysis and scientific computing, software engineering, computational linguistics, data structures, artificial intelligence, interactive computing, animation, computational complexity, etc.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants must hold a 10+2 or senior school certificate from an accredited government-recognised educational body.
• Minimum IELTS score of 6.5, with no band below 6.0
• Minimum TOEFL-iBT score of 100
• High school subjects – Mathematics (including Calculus) and Physics

2. University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia is a public institute that opened in 1915. Its two campuses are located in Vancouver and Kelowna. The university is known for its excellence in teaching and research. More than 68,000 students from more than 140 countries study at the university across many disciplines. The University of British Columbia believes in inclusion, diversity, and equity to strengthen its quality, community, the impact of its research, and relevance.

The computer science department of the University of British Columbia is consistently ranked within the top 25 of its kind in the world. Within Canada, the department is ranked within the top 3. The key areas the university has been focused on in recent years include machine learning, artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, the explosion of data science, etc.

Entry Requirements

• Graduation from a university-preparatory program at a senior secondary school
• Demonstrate English-language competency before admission – A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 with no part less than 6.0, CAEL (Overall 70), PTE (Academic) Overall 65, TOEFL Overall 90

3. University of Waterloo

It came into existence in 1957; the University of Waterloo has its main campus located in Waterloo, Ontario. The university's other campuses are in Cambridge, Stratford, and Kitchener. The University of Waterloo has always been known for its innovation. Its campuses provide more than 100 programs to students across various disciplines, like science, math, business, the arts, health, environment, etc. Its 50,000+ strong student community is an active one.

The computer science department of the University of Waterloo teaches students different aspects of computers, communications, networks, software, etc. The department also offers students an opportunity to have 2 years of paid work experience. Students graduating from computer science programs at the University of Waterloo often become IT specialists, hardware engineers, software developers, systems engineers, etc.

Entry Requirements

• Should have outstanding grades in computer science and mathematics
• An AIF (Admission Information Form) needs to be provided by students at the time of admission
• TOEFL iBT – 90 overall, 25 writing, 25 speaking
• IELTS Academic – 6.5 Overall, 6.5 writing, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening, 6.5 speaking
• CAEL – 70 overall, 60 per band, 70 writing, 70 speaking
• PTE Academic – 63 overall, 65 writing, 65 speaking

4. McGill University 

One of the prestigious universities in Canada, McGill consistently attracts thousands of students from different countries each year. The quality of education is so good that the university has the highest percentage of PhD students enrolled on its courses than any other university in Canada. With more than 400 programs on offer here and an alumni network of more than 250,000 people, McGill University is among Canada's most sought-after institutes.

The computer science department at McGill University endeavours to create a supportive and healthy atmosphere. The aim is to encourage, create, and support students' professional, social, and academic opportunities in the computer science field. Some of the subjects covered are theory of computation, programming languages and methodology, computer architecture, robotics, etc.

Entry Requirements

• An undergraduate degree with a GPA of 3.0 on 4.0 or above
• Personal Statement and Updated Resume
• TOEFL – 80-100 (Depends on the program)
• IELTS – 6.0
• PTE - 65

5. University of Montreal

The University of Montreal is one of the foremost research universities in Canada. Attracting more than $500 million in research funding every year, the University of Montreal is one of the major research hubs in Canada. Across its affiliated schools and 13 faculties, the University of Montreal houses more than 70,000 students, 2,600 lecturers, and 2,300 researchers and professors. As such, the university is multicultural and welcoming.

The computer science programs at the University of Montreal are designed to produce world-class computer scientists. Students enrolled in these programs are provided with problem-solving, technical, interpersonal, and mathematical skills needed to succeed internationally. The department offers students an exciting and engaging environment for honing their computer skills.

Entry Requirements

• Online application transcripts
• Identity documents
• Documents supporting the admission application
• Letter of Recommendation
• Minimum IELTS score of 6.5
• Minimum TOEFL score of 86

6. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta is Canada's leading public research-centric institution. Its reputation is built across different disciplines, like science, humanities, engineering, creative arts, health sciences, etc. The university consistently attracts thousands of the best minds from across the world. It is home to more than 40,000 students from over 150 countries.

The computer science programs at the University of Alberta are designed to let students take advantage of exciting areas within the field of computers, like machine learning, artificial intelligence, software and database systems, multimedia and computer games, robotics, bioinformatics, etc.

Entry Requirements

• Need to have studied English (Literature and Composition) as one of the subjects in the previous year of study
• Two of the following courses – Chemistry, Biology, Calculus, and Physics
• A score of at least 90 on the TOEFL iBT with no less than 21 on each band
• A score of at least 70 on the CAEL with no band less than 60
• A score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS Academic with no band less than 6.0

7. Simon Fraser University

Established in 1965, Simon Fraser University has been rated by Mclean's magazine as Canada's best comprehensive university for the years between 2015 and 2019. More than 30,000 students study at the university across three main campuses. Simon Fraser University focuses on integrating far-reaching community engagement, cutting-edge research, and innovative education.

The computer science department at Simon Fraser University matches the university's tradition of excellence in research and teaching. Students who enrol in computer science programs at the university graduate with profound knowledge in telecommunications, healthcare, multimedia, networks, etc.

Entry Requirements

• A minimum grade of 60% or C in an approved grade 11 or grade 12 math course
• Submit a transcript that has the details of all the courses completed
• An overall IELTS score of 6.5 with no part less than 6.0.
• An overall TOEFL iBT score of 88 with a minimum score of 20 in all the components
• An overall CAEL score of 70 with no part having a score less than 60

8. Queen's University at Kingston

Located in Kingston, Queen's University is a prominent academic research hub and one of Canada's oldest institutions that supports students from different backgrounds and countries. The atmosphere at the Queen's is supportive, safe, and vibrant. The university provides faculty and students with many research collaboration and learning opportunities.

Computer science subjects at Queen's help students explore several underlying computing principles. The subjects train students to focus on important areas of computer science like programming languages, artificial intelligence, computing theory, and human-computer interaction.

Entry Requirements

• Must have passed 10+2 with a minimum average as prescribed by the university
• Overall IELTS score of 6.5 out of 9, with no band below 6.0
• Overall PTE score of 60 out of 90
• Overall TOEFL score of 88 out of 120

9. University of Calgary

The University of Calgary consistently ranks among Canada's top 10 research universities. The university is home to more than 30,000 students who thrive in courses made rich through hands-on experiences and research. The university offers over 200 professional, graduate, and undergraduate degree programs.

Computer science programs at the University of Calgary strengthen students in various areas, including logic and communication, creativity with mathematics, and practical and theoretical problem-solving. The programs enable students to prepare for system building and problem-solving without continual training.

Entry Requirements

• Students must have completed 2 years of formal full-time study at an English post-secondary school or 3 years of formal full-time study at a secondary school with proof of education in English.
• Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 out of 9
• Minimum PTE score of 60 out of 90
• Minimum TOEFL score of 86 out of 120

10. University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa has always been known for providing a superior educational experience to students. A vibrant, engaged, and vital institute for human advancement and understanding, the University of Ottawa is gaining recognition for its academic excellence and research capabilities.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants must hold a 10+2 or senior school certificate from an accredited government-recognised educational body.
• Minimum TOEFL score of 88 out of 120
• Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 out of 9 with no less than 6.0 in each of the components

Studying computer science in Canada is a dream for many international students. At AECC Global, we make sure the dreams are fulfilled. Our expert and experienced counsellors are always available to help you on all matters surrounding your study abroad program. AECC Global has been at the forefront and will continue to provide reliable, efficient, and hassle-free study abroad counselling services to students. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help you make your goal of studying computer science in Canada come true!

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Conclusion

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