Computer Science | University of Lethbridge

Faculty of Arts & Science

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?

Decode your passion in Computer Science.

Faculty of Arts & ScienceComputer Science

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 difficult problems using a variety of high-tech tools and approaches. You’ll also learn to effectively communicate your expertise to others by coupling your technical learning with a solid grounding in Liberal Education.

The program is designed to enable you 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 use them.

Computer Science and Geographical Information Science This multidisciplinary major is offered jointly by the Departments of Geography 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. See the GIS brochure or speak to an Academic Advisor for more information.

Student Clubs & ActivitiesYou can participate in the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM), an international scientific and educational society dedicated to advancing computing as a scientific endeavor 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 ProgramsYou can complete a BSc in Computer Science in one of two ways: by direct enrollment in the program at the UofL, 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 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 and 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 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.

See uleth.ca/postdiploma for more information on approved Computer Science Diploma programs.

Computer Science CoursesCourse selections for the program will vary depending on your degree, but may include:

For more information, see your Program Planning Guide or speak to an Academic Advisor.

What is Computer Science?

“I had an interest in games forever. It started with Atari 2600 when I was a kid. I’ve always been a gamer so to be able to develop games now as a character animator is amazing!

Brad Kinley (UofL Alumnus, one of the lead designers of Mass Effect 2)

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• 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

Skills AcquiredIn 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 innovative software solutions, strong system analysis skills as well as an in-depth knowledge of issues central to automatic data and information processing.

Graduate StudiesResearch in Computer Science is traditionally undertaken by individuals holding a Master’s Degree (MSc) or Doctorate (PhD). Your degree will prepare you for post-graduate studies, whether you choose to do your graduate degree here at the University of Lethbridge or at another institution.

Professional DisciplinesYour Bachelor of Science in Computer Science provides an excellent foundation for Law, Business Management or Education.

Related FieldsHere are just a few of the options open to you once you’ve earned your degree:

What Are Your Future Prospects?

Our Faculty Members & Their ResearchFaculty members in the Department often involve undergraduate students in their research projects, using state-of-the-art facilities and equipments. 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:

• 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

• High-performance Computing• Artificial Intelligence• Scheduling & Planning• Computational Differentiation• Natural Language Processing• Design & Analysis of Algorithms• Computational Geometry• Graph Drawing & Visibility• Circuit Design• Databases• 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

ulethbridge.ca @ulethbridge.caJoin us online!

University of Lethbridge4401 University DriveLethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 403 329 [email protected]/computerscience

*This brochure should be used in conjunction with the University of Lethbridge calendar, which is the final authority regarding program requirements and academic regulations.

Put Your Knowledge to WorkWhether 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 programs 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.

Research & Independent StudiesIn addition to your regular courses, you have the opportunity to participate in Independent Studies. You’re able to contribute to departmental activities by volunteering on research projects or through 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. There are field school opportunities available in some disciplines, as well as many opportunities to study abroad.

For current Research or Independent Studies opportunities, contact the Department directly.

Applied StudiesApplied Studies is another special opportunity offered to all Arts & Science students as a way to 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 on Applied Studies, visit:ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies

Co-operative Education & InternshipsThe Faculty of Arts & Science is proud to offer you the chance to participate in our award-winning Co-op Program—the only one of its kind in Alberta. 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 yourdegree and, most importantly, a kick-start to your career the minute you graduate.

For more information on Co-operative Education & Internships, visit:ulethbridge.ca/coop/artsci

Academic AdvisingSU060Students’ Union Building403 329 [email protected]/artsci/advising