Computer Science, B.Sc.

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General Information

The Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Computer Science allows students to pursue a concentrated study of computer science, along with another discipline (the “Computing and X” model). Students will study the foundations of computing, including mathematics, programming, computing theory, operating systems and networking. These foundations are complemented by the knowledge accumulated in other disciplines such as biology, geographic information systems, physics, mathematics, or chemistry. The result is a unique degree featuring strength in computing, breadth in general education, and a focus on a particular discipline of interest.

Furthermore, Computer science is the intellectual heart of all the computing disciplines and it intersects with many other disciplines, such as mathematics, logic, linguistics and the natural sciences. For this reason, Computer Science remains the discipline of choice for pursuing postgraduate study. Building on a theoretical foundation in computer science, the curriculum will prepare graduates for a successful career by combining technical and professional requirements with general education. Students will develop skills and competencies in demand by the labour market: they will be communicative, creative, critical, and collaborative. High demand for students with these skills has been created by the technological changes that are rapidly transforming our economy.

The program has been developed by following well-recognized international curriculum standards from the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) as well as through continuous consultation with senior computer scientists from Calgary businesses. The end result is a niche degree that meets the needs of graduates who must adapt to change in the future.

Continuance in the Program

Students accepted into the B.Sc. in Computer Science degree program must comply with all University policies and regulations relating to baccalaureate degrees and continuance.

Work Term

A co-operative education option is available to the students.

General Admission Requirements

All students must meet the general admission requirements for Mount Royal University programs, as indicated in the Admission section of this calendar.

Additional Admission Requirements

In addition to meeting the general admission requirements indicated in the Admission section of this calendar, applicants must also satisfy the following criteria.

Academic Course Requirements

The following specific courses (or equivalencies) with the specified minimum grades are required for admission into the Bachelor of Science - Computer Science program:

English Language Arts 30-1 - 60%
Mathematics 30-1 - 65%

Although Conditional Admission may be granted in advance of receipt of final/official transcripts, confirmation of the achievement of specified minimum grades will take place after all final/official transcripts have been received by the University. Applicants who do not meet these minimum grade requirements will be denied admission.

Curriculum

The foundation of the B.Sc. Computer Science includes 16 required core courses, 6 approved (senior) option courses, 10 General Education courses, 4 electives, and 4 cognate courses in their selected cognate, for a total of 40 courses over 4 years.

Required core courses

The 16 required core courses in the BSc Computer Science consist of the following:

Approved options

Students must take three of the following courses as Approved Options.

Approved senior options

Students must take three of the following courses as Approved Senior Option.

Electives

Students must complete four elective courses.

General Education

Ten courses must be completed to meet the General Education requirements to graduate with a B.Sc. in Computer Science.

Four courses will be taken at the foundational level: one from each of the thematic clusters.
Three courses will be taken at the second tier: no more than one from each of the three thematics clusters: Values, Beliefs and Identity, Community and Society, and Communication.
Three courses must be taken at the third tier, selected from at least two of the thematic clusters.

Cognate courses

Cognate courses are courses from outside a defined discipline that complements and enhances the breadth of knowledge and skills found in the area of study. Students are required to choose one cognate section and complete the 4 required courses.

Astronomy Cognate

Required Astronomy cognate courses:

Biology Cognate

Required Biology cognate courses:

Chemistry Cognate

Required Chemistry cognate courses:

Geographic Information Systems Cognate

Required Geographic Information System courses:

Geology Cognate

Required Geology cognate courses:

Mathematics Cognate

Four of the following Mathematics cognate courses:

Physics Cognate

Required Physics cognate courses:

Graduation Requirements

For graduation purposes, all degree candidates in the B.Sc. in Computer Science must complete all core courses in the program, with a final grade of C- or higher. Students are permitted one grade lower than C- in their core.