Top Computer Science Colleges in Canada

Last Updated : 15 Mar, 2024

Canada stands out as the best destination for international students seeking a world-class education in computer science. This nation has universities offering the best CS programs that open doors to thriving tech careers. Choosing the right college can feel overwhelming among the many excellent options. That’s why this guide aims to simplify the process by mentioning the top computer science colleges across Canada. Perhaps a focus on theoretical concepts or applied learning better aligns with one’s goals. Or maybe factors like campus culture, networking opportunities, and post-grad job prospects take precedence.

Why Study Computer Science in Canada?

Pursuing a computer science degree in Canada is a wise choice for anyone looking to future-proof their career. This always-evolving field offers endless opportunities that span virtually every industry. But why choose the great white north to study this in-demand subject?

Renowned Universities: You’ll find some of the world’s top-ranked universities for computer science right here in Canada. These elite institutions attract brilliant minds from across the globe and have produced numerous tech titans and innovators.

Vast Curriculum: Canadian universities stay ahead of the curve, ensuring their comp science programs cover the latest advances in AI, cybersecurity, data analytics and more. You’ll gain skills that’ll keep you highly employable for decades.

Major Industry Presence: Cities like Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal are booming tech capitals, home to the Canadian offices of giants like Amazon, Google and Microsoft. Countless startups and homegrown successes also call these cities home.

Co-op Opportunities: Many Canadian computer science programs include mandatory co-op placements, letting you gain invaluable paid work experience at leading tech companies before even graduating.

Course Curriculum For Computer Science in Canada

Courses usually included in a bachelor of computer science degree:

Basics Curriculum:

Computer programming
Programming paradigms
Algorithms
Data structures
Logic & Computation
Computer architecture

Mathematical Curriculum :

Linear algebra
Calculus
Probability theory and statistics
Combinatorics and discrete mathematics
Differential calculus and mathematics

Additional Curriculum :

Theory of computation
Operating systems
Numerical computation
Compilers, compiler design
Real-time computing
Distributed systems
Computer networking
Data communication
Computer graphics
Artificial intelligence
Human-computer interaction
Information theory
Software testing
Information assurance

Top Colleges in Canada For Computer Science

There are many universities in Canada for pursuing computer science. However, these are the top picked universities which provides quality education, campus life, and helps in advancing tech career:

Rankings	College Name	Courses Offered	Fees	City Name
1	University of Toronto	Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Computer Engineering Data Sciences	CAD $62,580/ INR 38L	Toronto, Ontario, Canada
2	University of British Columbia	Computer Science Computer Engineering Integrated Computer Science Business and Computer Science Data Sciences	CAD $9,690.18/ INR 5.8L	Kelowna, Canada
3	University of Waterloo	Business Administration and Computer Science double degree Computational Mathematics Computer Engineering Computer Science Computing and Financial Management Information Technology Management	CAD $70,000/ INR 42L	Waterloo, Canada
4	McGill University	Computer Engineering Computer Science and Biology Computer Science and Physics Computer Science	CAD$10,633.93/ INR 6.5L	Montreal, Quebec, Canada
5	Universite de Montreal	Mathematical and Computational Finance Information Sciences Information Technology Law Video game studies Applied Computing	CAD $10,858.2/ INR 6.6L	Montreal, Quebec, Canada
6	University of Alberta	Computer Engineering Business Technology Management Computing Science and Mathematics	CAD $33,968.40/ INR 20L	Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
7	Simon Fraser University	Information Systems in Business Administration and Computing Science Computer and Electronics design Computer Engineering Computing Science Computing Science and Linguistics	CAD $50,000/ INR 30L	Burnaby, Canada
8	University of Calgary	Computer Science Bioinformatics Business Technology Management	CAD $21,802.51/ INR 13L	Calgary, Canada
9	University of Ottawa	Computer Engineering Computer Science Data Science	CAD $17,329.05 / INR 10L	Ottawa, Canada
10	Carleton University	Computational and Applied Mathematics and Statistics Computer and Internet Security Computer game development	CAD $28,707.62/ INR 17L	Ottawa

1. University Of Toronto

The University of Toronto is an excellent pick for studying computer science. This public university in Toronto started way back in 1827, making it one of Canada’s oldest schools for higher learning. It ranks among the world’s top public universities. You can select from numerous undergrad and graduate programs in computer science. The diverse course offerings let you customize your degree exactly how you wish to specialize. Plus, the school’s inclusive environment helps all students feel comfortable. With its reputation and resources, the university prepares you well for a tech career.

Eligibility Criteria	Details
Eligibility	High school completion (Grade 12) Specific criteria based on board (CBSE/ICSE/IB/State) Math required up to Grade 12 for computer science courses English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) required
Scholarships	Entrance Scholarships In-Course Scholarship

2. University of British Columbia

UBC is the best choice for studying computer science. This public university is located in the beautiful province of British Columbia. It has two big campuses – one in Vancouver and another in Kelowna. UBC is one of Canada’s biggest and most respected universities. It ranks among the top three in the country thanks to its excellent professors, innovative teaching methods, diversity, and focus on research. With its great reputation and resources, UBC sets you up nicely for a career in the tech field after graduating.

Category	Details
Eligibility	Completed Grade 12 Minimum 85% in board exams Math and physics knowledge up to Grade 12 IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 90
Scholarships	International Major Entrance Scholarships Donald A. Macdonald Scholarships

3. University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo is an excellent university for studying computer science. As a public research university, Waterloo places a big focus on hands-on learning and the real-world impact of research. This university is especially great for international students. It works hard to build a strong community and professional networks that extend beyond graduation. The emphasis on experiential learning perfectly prepares you for a future career in computer science and tech.

Category	Details
Eligibility	Grade 12 completion Math: ≥ 90%, Other subjects: ≥ 85% English in grades 11th and 12th Optional: IELTS/TOEFL
Scholarships	David Johnson Scholarships President’s Scholarships

4. McGill University

McGill really shines for its innovative Computer Science courses. They equip students with practical skills and resources to excel in tech careers. The university puts big emphasis on hands-on learning through research projects and real-world experience. As one of Canada’s elite universities, McGill attracts top students nationwide. Their CS program is competitively selective yet culturally diverse. McGill has a reputation for rigor and prestige, ranking among the country’s finest schools year after year.

Category	Details
Eligibility	Grade 12 completion Percentage: 75% – 85% consistently Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
Scholarships	Entrance Scholarships Alexander Mackenzie Scholarships

5. Universite De Montreal

The University of Montreal specializes in research projects that let students get hands-on experience. This university stands out as one of the top places to study in Quebec. Since it’s a French-speaking school, Montreal University gives students the chance to learn in French. That’s super helpful for anyone hoping to live and work in French communities after graduating. The campus itself has a nice vibe with lots of resources for students. One can access to their latest tech labs and research projects is a huge perk.

Category	Details
Eligibility	Bachelor’s degree completion Master’s degree for Ph.D. program GPA requirement: 3 out of 4.3 Language proficiency: French & English
Scholarships	UdeM exemption scholarship

6. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta ranks high for teaching and research. It gives students lots of chances to grow in their fields. Plus, it helps them get a well-rounded education for life after college. Founded in 1908, it’s seen as a top academic and research university. Basically, it offers many professional and academic programs focused on great academics and research. This makes it a popular pick, especially for those wanting careers in academia, research, or both. Its rigorous coursework and research opportunities are big draws for tech-minded students.

Category	Details
Eligibility	Completion of Grade 12 with Math An overall average of 75% marks IELTS score: minimum 6.5 TOEFL score: minimum 90
Scholarships	Faculty of Science Entrance Scholarships Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (VCGS)

7. Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University puts a big focus on research, gaining new knowledge, and finding new ways to do things. It wants to make real changes in the world and inspire students to help make communities better socially, financially, and culturally all over the globe.

Simon Fraser is a public university for research located in British Columbia with three main campuses. Simon Fraser is known for research and having many centers for it. It’s also known for making sure students see how important sports are and being part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, which is the biggest sports group in the world.

Category	Details
Eligibility	Completed grade 12 with Math Scored at least 50% in Math IELTS score: minimum 6.5 TOEFL score: minimum 88 OR CGPA of at least 2.5 for SFIC pathway Minimum age: 17 for SFIC pathway
Scholarships	SFU McCall MacBain Scholarships

8. University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is an excellent choice for computer science students. The university builds a sense of community and bonding that values being pioneers, innovators, and making the world better. It is one of the top research universities in Canada, with $380.4 million in sponsored research money. As a computer science student, you’ll find the resources and opportunities here are the best. The faculty encourage curiosity, creativity and pushing boundaries in computing and technology fields.

Category	Details
Eligibility	Completed Grade 12 with English and Math. Plus two subjects from Biology, Calculus, Physics, or Chemistry IELTS score: minimum 6.5 TOEFL score: minimum 86

9. University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa provide students with valuable research opportunities and cultivate a strong sense of community on campus. It offers plenty of amenities that make it very appealing for those studying abroad. The city consistently ranks near the top for student quality of life in Canada. The university campus is also impressive, with great facilities for research across a wide range of undergraduate and graduate program options. For computer science students seeking a well-rounded educational experience, the University of Ottawa is the best.

Category	Details
Eligibility	Completed high school (grade 12) Subjects: Math (preferably calculus), Physics, Chemistry, and English Combined average: minimum 75% English medium schooling for at least 3 years (grades 10, 11, and 12)
Scholarships	Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship University of Ottawa Admission Scholarship

10. Carleton University

Carleton University provides an excellent path for those keen on computer science. This university, located in Ottawa, offers superb programs that truly immerse you in coding, algorithms, and the world of technology. Knowledgeable professors guide your learning and give you a window into pioneering research projects. Many graduates secure roles at prestigious firms like IBM, Apple, and Amazon.

Category	Details
Eligibility	Completed high school Subjects: Math and English Overall grade: 67% to 85%
Scholarships	Faculty of Engineering and Design Scholarships Page Program Entrance Scholarships Carleton Capital Scholarship

Documents Required For Computer Science in Canada

Here are the required documents for international students to get admitted into a bachelor’s degree in computer science program in Canada:

Online application/form
A statement of purpose
A statement of intent
Resume/CV
Official transcripts of academic documents
Letters of recommendation
Financial documentation
ELP scores

Admission Process For Computer Science in Canada

Here are the key facts about the admission process for Computer Science programs in Canada:

Research Universities – Top schools like University of Toronto, UBC, and McGill are highly competitive. You’ll need excellent grades, strong test scores, relevant experience.
Language Tests – International students must prove English/French proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL or DELF. Minimum scores vary by university.
Transcripts – Official transcripts from all previous schools attended are required, along with course descriptions/syllabi.
Statement of Purpose – A well-written personal statement explaining your academic interests, goals, and fit for the program carries weight.
Letters of Recommendation – Typically 2-3 strong recommendation letters, usually from professors who can attest to your abilities.
Portfolios/Experience – Some schools require samples of coding projects, internships or relevant work showcasing your CS skills.
Apply Early – With high demand for top CS programs in Canada, it’s crucial to get your application materials in early for the best consideration.

Scope of Studying Computer Science in Canada

Computer science graduates in Canada get to choose from many cool job options. Here are a few options:

Software Developer/Engineer
Data Scientist/Analyst
Cybersecurity Analyst
Systems Analyst
Network Engineer/Administrator
Database Administrator
Cloud Engineer/Architect
Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer
Game Developer
IT Project Manager
IT Consultant
Research Scientist

Conclusion

Canada has many universities which might suit your preference to study computer science. However, the ones mentioned above are the best in the entire country. If you want to possess an international computer degree, these universities are the best picks. These universities have qualified professors, advanced teaching techniques, and internships that will help to start your tech career.