Faculty of Arts & Science
Computer Science
Decode your passion
Do you enjoy finding intricate solutions to complex problems? Are you technically minded? Do you like to figure out how things work? Do you want to make a difference? ulethbridge.ca/future-student
Computer science is the study of algorithms and data structures and their applications in designing new and efficient solutions to industrial, technological, environmental or social problems.
As a computer science student, you will learn to tackle challen ging problems using a variety of high-tech tools and approaches. You ’ll also learn to effectively communicate your expertise to others by co upling your technical learning with a solid grounding in liberal education.
The program is designed to enable you to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, including access to state-of-the-art hardware and software in our three computer labs whenever you need to us e them.
Student Clubs & Activities. You can participate in the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM), an international scientific and educational society dedicated to advancing computing as a scientific endeavour and a profession. The department also participates in the annual ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest for the Rocky Mountain Region — an excellent opportunity for you to show off your programming skills.
Computer Science & Geographical Information Science. This multidisciplinary major is offered jointly by the Departments of Geography & Environment and Mathematics & Computer Science. It combines the technical and practical methodologies of GIS with the systems analysis and design skills from computer science to provide a strong foundation in this growing field.
Computer Science Degrees. You can complete a BSc in computer science in one of two ways: by direct enrolment in the program at the University of Lethbridge, or as a Post-Diploma BSc after completing an approved college diploma. By participating in either of these programs, you will gain a broad range of knowledge and experience in the field.
• Bachelor of Science: The Department of Mathematics & Computer Science offers a major in computer science for the 40-course Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc) degree programs. You can also select a general major in the sciences and choose computer science as one of the three streams, or opt for a BSc in computer science & geographical information systems (GIS) in the direct enrollment BSc. Alternatively, you can declare computer science as your BSc major for the Combined BSc/BMgt program.
• Post-Diploma Bachelor of Science: This two-year program’s primary focus is to enhance your previous training with a solid theoretical foundation in computing. This combination of technical and academic studies will give you a unique competitive advantage when launching your career or pursuing graduate studies in computer science.
Computer Science Courses. Course selections for the program will vary depending on your degree, but may include:
• Advanced Programming Techniques
• Compiler Construction
• Computer Architecture
• Data Structures & Algorithms
• Data Communications & Networking
• Internetworking
• Artificial Intelligence
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Programming Languages
• Computer Graphics
• Software Engineering
• Database Systems
• Operations Research
• Bioinformatics
• Data Mining
• Image Processing
Minors. Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Minors are not available in all programs.
The minor in computer science is available as an add on to all majors in the BA, BSc and BASc except the major in computer science, computer science & GIS and the general major in the sciences if computer science is chosen as one of the three streams. Learn more at go.uleth.ca/minors.
Our Faculty & Their Research
Faculty members in the department often involve undergraduate students in their research projects, using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Many have independent research programs supported by agencies such as NSERC or IBM Canada. Many projects are conducted in collaboration with other departments, community members and employers — giving you the opportunity to get additional hands-on experience while you earn your degree.
Current Research & Areas of Interest:
• High-performance Computing
• Artificial Intelligence
• Scheduling & Planning
• Computational Differentiation
• Natural Language Processing
• Design & Analysis of Algorithms
• Computational Geometry
• Graph Drawing & Visibility
• Circuit Design
• Knowledge-Based Systems
• Parallel & Distributed Computing
• Language Technology &
Engineering
• Optimization
• Availability Enhancing Middleware
• VLSI Design
• Information & Network Security
• Switching Functions
• Reconfigurable Hardware
• Image Processing
• Computer Algebra
• Data Management
• Software Engineering
Your Future Prospects
Skills Acquired. In addition to developing exceptional communication skills, you will acquire critical and analytical problem-solving skills, research and information management skills and improve your attention to detail. You will leave the program with strong abilities to organize information, design innovativ e software solutions, strong system analysis skills as well as in-depth kn owledge of issues central to automatic data and information processing.
Related Fields. Here are just a few of the options open to you once you’ve earned your degree:
• Games Programming
• Digital Forensics
• Computational Linguistics
• Robotics
• Multimedia
• Mobile App Design
• Computer Music
• Software Development
• Systems Analysis
• Database Management
• Telecommunications
• Web Services Development
• Information Systems Management
• Embedded Systems Design
• Quality Control Engineering
• Computer-Aided Manufacturing
• IT Training & Education
• Environmental Engineering
• Health & Bioinformatics
Graduate Studies. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers graduate programs at the Master and Doctoral levels, spanning over 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at ULethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.
Decode your passion in Computer Science.
“Computer science at the U of L is a great place to network, make friends and expand your knowledge. It is a fantastic choice for advancement in the world’s need for technology. Get into co-op! Study hard and don’t be discouraged by failure — it’s a stepping stone to success.”
- Prosper, Computer Science (Co-op)
Put Your Knowledge to Work
Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects or by testing your knowledge in a real-life setting, we can help. Combined with your required coursework, the opportunities outlined below will provide you with a solid foundation for further studies and an excellent framework for a challenging and rewarding career — whatever direction you decide to go.
Applied Studies
Earn course credit for career-related paid, volunteer or community service work experience. This program is specially designed to allow you to integrate principles learned in the classroom in a practical work setting.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies
Academic Advising
Co-operative Education (Co-op)
ULethbridge is proud to offer you the chance to participate in co-op. Co-op allows you to gain work experience directly related to your studies and make invaluable contacts in the workforce, all while earning a competitive salary. Completion of the program allows you to receive a co-op designation on your degree and, most importantly, a kick-start to your career the minute you graduate.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/coop
Participate in Research
In addition to your regular courses, you can contribute to departmental research activities. For example, you can complete an independent study course or gain employment as a research assistant. If your GPA is high enough, you can also enrol in undergraduate thesis-based courses where research is a component of your studies.
Contact your department to learn more!
Your decision to explore a university education is the first step toward a great future — now let us help you navigate your degree options at ULethbridge and set you on the road to success. Do you have questions about what field of study best suits you? Would you like help with program and registration planning and just can’t find the answers? If so, you should speak to an academic advisor today — advisors have the answers to these questions and many more.
To learn more about the support services available to you through our academic advisors, visit: ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising
For more information, scan QR code. Questions? Contact Student Recruitment and Enrolment Services at 403-320-5700 or inquiries@uleth.ca
