The Best Canadian Universities for Computer Science
This article series provides a comprehensive overview of the best computer science programs in Canada.
Maybe you are one who spends a good deal of your life in front of the computer. If you can tinker with it with your
eyes closed, and if know your computer like it was the back of your hand, then you can make the most out of your techie talent by delving in a career in CS.
Like most fields, competition for a coveted slot for CompSci majors can be strict because of the high demand among several industries. So if you want to outrun and outgun the rest, then you need to develop your foundations and improve your skills with the help of the best Canadian University that specializes in Computer Science.
What is Computer Science?
Computer Science deals with computation and its varied applications. A professional who specializes in this field – also known as a Computer Scientist – works by applying the theories to its designs and concepts.
About the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science
University of Waterloo’s distinguished School of Computer Science was established in 1967. From then on, it has become the largest academic research center for CS in the entire country. The school currently plays home to 1700 motivated undergraduate students.
The School, which is named after alumnus David R. Cheriton Ph.D., employs more than 75 distinguished faculty members, most of which are members of the Royal Society of Canada, Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, to name a few.
Why go for Waterloo?
There are hundreds of universities in Canada, and most of them offer a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. While a lot of them claim to be the ‘best,’ Waterloo’s CS program proves to be the gold standard as to where most Canadian universities are measured. Here are several reasons why Waterloo should be your top choice for University education:
1) Reputation and Prestige AKA Bragging Rights
As per the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) in Engineering/Technology and Computer Science, the University of Waterloo ranks second amongst Canadian universities (after U. of Toronto), landing on the
43rd slot of the prestigious global survey.
As for the specific listing for CS institutions, Waterloo is included in ARWU’s top 100 list, specifically the 76-100 bracket. It is ranked the seventh best Canadian university in the list. In summation, studying at Waterloo gives you the reputation, prestige and the bragging rights of being one of the country’s top students.
2) Distinguished Faculty Members
You get to be the best by being taught by the best!
At the University of Waterloo, you will receive instruction from high-ranking professors who are leaders in their own respective fields. To date, the school features an officer from the Order of Canada, a fellow of the AAAI, two fellows from the ACM, three members of the Royal Society of Canada, and four chairpersons for Canada Research.
3) Co-op program = Real World Experience
At Waterloo, you can broaden your horizons because you get to choose amongst its exciting degree offers. The Regular track is a good option, but if you want to immerse your senses in real-world learning, then you can do so by signing up for a co-op track. This gives you 2 years of work experience while you are still in school! With this under your belt, you will have a head start over your contemporaries.
4) Integrated Minors and Double-degree Courses
By taking the Bachelor of Computer Science, you can solidify your understanding of CS and incorporate a specific area of interest along the way. You can simply combine this degree with a minor in Business, Bioinformatics, Health Informatics, Teaching or Digital Hardware.
If you are hungry for additional knowledge, you can opt for the school’s double degrees, such as Mathematics – Computer Science and Business Administration – Computer Science. If you do not mind the additional workload and the additional student funding you have to sign up for, then these double degrees are healthy choices for a fun and challenging career in CompSci.
5) Strong Research Programs
Technologies evolve rapidly everyday, that is why there is a strong need for new researches and studies about these modernizations. Waterloo recognizes this demand by conducting studies involving the different branches of CompSci through its renowned Institute of Computer Research.
The school’s commitment to progressive and excellent research is undoubtedly famous throughout the country. According to Science Watch, Waterloo’s CS researches have made the most impact out of 46 other Canadian CS labs.
The school’s notable researches include the development of the Maple symbolic computation system, the digitization of the Oxford English Dictionary, and the creation of WATFOR and WATFIV compilers.
6) Wide Base of Resources
From the name itself, Computer Science deals with the use of computing technologies. To make sure that its graduates are well-versed with these systems, the University offers a Computer Science Computing Facility, also known as the school’s service provider. It offers assistance to students and faculty members, as well as how-to guides on the usage of software, programs, operating systems, etc.
7) Numerous Enrichment Opportunities = Experience!
In the world of CS, as with other careers, experience is essential. Waterloo can give you just that with the enrichment opportunities that the university brings to the table. For one, you can apply for part-time research opportunities that can immerse you with the educational branch of CompSci. Internship programs are also offered during the summer, in order for the students to be able to apply their skills in an industrial set-up.
8) Financial Assistance through Scholarships and Bursaries
Lack of funds is one of the biggest problems that plague incoming University students. If this is your predicament, you do not have to worry! Waterloo offers scholarships and bursaries to its deserving students. Highly-qualified students stand a chance to win a scholarship grant given by the Faculty of Mathematics and other entities/individuals, while those in dire need can apply for a bursary.
Pros and Cons of Enrolling in U. of Waterloo
Still confused as to what University to enroll in this coming semester? Here are some advantages – as well as some disadvantages – to being a Warrior.
YES to Waterloo!
- Bragging Rights – Prestige and Reputation!
- Excellent Faculty Members
- Double-Degree Courses
- Research-Oriented Education
- Rich Resources
- Helpful Enrichment Opportunities
- Access to Financial Grants, Aids, Scholarships and Bursaries
Why NOT?
There is no reason why not! If you would like to have world-class Computer Science education, then UW is your best choice.
The IT industry is at its peak – more and more companies are looking for well-suited individuals who can take on the challenge of computing and data analysis. With a good education that Waterloo can provide, you can be the topnotch applicant that most companies are looking for.
