Computer Science

For decades, computer science was considered the ultimate future-proof degree. In 2026, the value of a computer-related education is more complicated to discern, as artificial intelligence is reshaping entry-level work. AI hasn’t replaced aspiring programmers—at least not yet—but it has changed what employers expect, and how universities prepare students for the job market.

Across Canada, computer science programs are evolving quickly. Many universities have added specializations in data science, cybersecurity or artificial intelligence, shaped by feedback from industry partners and reflecting the demand for deeper technical expertise. Co-op education has also become a major selling point, with some students completing as many as five or six paid work terms during their degree. These placements let students sample different fields—software, data, security, product design—before committing to one.

That flexibility matters, because today’s tech careers are far more diverse than that of the stereotypical “lone coder.” Now, computer science students graduate into a range of fresh and exciting roles. They might become computer-vision specialists, who train computers to analyze images and videos and are crucial in multiple fields, such as medical-imaging engineering, augmented reality development and quality control for iPhones, autonomous vehicles and everything in between. Others might get hired as cloud engineers, architects for Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud or as AI security specialists, safeguarding machine-learning systems from hackers. Quantum software testing and digital-twin simulation—which involve virtual models of complex systems, like cities or factories—are emerging fields that allow us to predict how complicated systems, like a mass construction project or a human heart, could malfunction over time. There are creative paths too. Students can pursue digital forensics—helping law enforcement recover data from devices—or combine technical skills with design in user-experience (UX) or video-game development.

The biggest challenge for new graduates is competition. Canada now has fewer traditional entry-level software and web-developer roles than it did a few years ago. AI tools can handle many routine coding tasks that once belonged to junior engineers, while companies often prefer to hire fewer, more experienced staff. 

Even before vying for a coveted entry-level role, students must contend with a highly competitive admissions process. At top programs, like those at the University of Waterloo and the University of Toronto, successful applicants typically have averages in the low- to mid-90s. Learning doesn’t stop at convocation. Many universities now offer continuing-education courses in fast-moving fields like cybersecurity and machine learning to help alumni stay up-to-date with current needs. Students who succeed in today’s market tend to be strategic. They build portfolios on GitHub, enter coding competitions and pursue internships or co-ops aligned with their interests. 

The reward for top expertise? Handsome salaries. Entry-level wages for computer engineers and software developers range from $65,000 to $145,000, and then increase rapidly with promotions.

So, is a CS degree still worth it? In many cases, yes. While no longer a guaranteed ticket to a job, it’s still one of the most flexible and powerful credentials available-—especially as an understanding of intelligent systems becomes valuable. For those up for that challenge, the future looks promising.

Standout Computer Science Programs

Our standout programs are based on research by our team of journalists who speak to industry experts, educational consultants and others to develop a selection of programs worth considering. This is not a ranked list.

University of Waterloo

Degree: Bachelor of computer science, bachelor of mathematics in computer science
Co-op: Yes

The University of Waterloo—home to many founders and tech giants—has several unique research areas, with professors who are among the best in the world in their fields. Students can specialize in one of eight areas, including bioinformatics, human computer interaction, artificial intelligence and computational fine arts. Those who enjoy especially challenging technical problems may opt for the bachelor of software engineering, which is a rigorous program focused on building hardware and software. It offers co-op placements and an emphasis on teamwork.

University of British Columbia

Degree: Bachelor of science, bachelor of arts
Co-op: Yes

UBC computer science students have plenty of options, including a B.A. stream for those more interested in arts than science. Students in the B.Sc. stream have the option to apply for a limited number of spots in the software engineering program. For those interested in research, the school’s cognitive systems program blends courses from computer science, linguistics, philosophy and psychology.

University of Toronto

Degree: Bachelor of science
Co-op: Yes, at Scarborough campus

Gaining entry to the University of Toronto’s computer science program opens up a wide array of specialities, including a data science specialization that combines computer science and statistics to help people get insights from data. Students can also take advantage of entrepreneurship support and access to an innovation lab.  

University of Alberta

Degree: Bachelor of science
Co-op: No

Established in 1964, the computing science department at the University of Alberta is one of the largest and oldest in Canada. Students can pursue an honours degree, which includes a thesis component, or combine their degree with one of 21 other specializations, such as gaming, medicine or literature. Students who wish to combine computer science with business can choose the business minor specialization, while the software practice stream dives deep into programming, algorithms, hardware, software design and user interfaces. Students can gain work experience by taking part in the faculty of science internship program. 

Simon Fraser University

Degree: Bachelor of science
Co-op: Yes

Students at SFU gain broad knowledge across six concentrations: artificial intelligence, information systems, computing systems, theoretical computer science, computer graphics and multimedia, and programming languages and software. Those who want to focus on developing software can choose the software systems program, located at the Surrey campus. In their final year, student teams work with a faculty member to implement a software system, as part of a mandatory capstone project.