Computer Science

Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Build a broad foundation in computing, software development, data and AI. Apply computer science to real-world problems across many fields and careers.

Computer Science student and Faculty in conversation

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Degree

Bachelor

Length

4 years

Faculty/School

Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science

Why study Computer Science at UBC Okanagan?

Computer science gives you the skills to understand, design and build the technologies shaping our world. At UBC Okanagan, students develop a strong foundation in computing, software, data, systems and AI while learning how to apply these skills across many fields.

What sets our program apart is the quality of teaching and the integration of AI into modern computing practice. Students learn from award-winning instructors while exploring areas such as artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, software engineering, cybersecurity, systems and data-driven technologies.

Degree Options

At UBC Okanagan, students can study Computer Science through either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc), with major and honours options available in both degrees. Students in both programs build a strong foundation in computer science and choose from a flexible range of computing and AI courses.

The main difference between the BA and BSc is the set of degree requirements outside of Computer Science. The BA allows students to combine CS with Arts-based studies, while the BSc combines CS with Science-based requirements. A minor in Computer Science is also available to students majoring in another BSc discipline.

Bachelor of Arts

The BA in Computer Science is a good option for students who want to study computing while also pursuing interests in areas such as the humanities, social sciences, creative fields, communication or interdisciplinary studies.

Bachelor of Science

The BSc in Computer Science is a good option for students who want to study computing while also completing Science-based degree requirements in areas such as mathematics, statistics and the natural sciences.

Sample Courses

COSC 101 – Digital Citizenship
COSC 111 – Computer Programming I
COSC 121 – Computer Programming II
COSC 122 – AI and Computer Fluency
COSC 123 – Computer Creativity

COSC 210 – Software Construction
COSC 211 – Machine Architecture
COSC 221 – Discrete Structures in Computing
COSC 222 – Data Structures
COSC 270 – Fundamentals of Privacy and Security

COSC 301 – Introduction to Data Analytics
COSC 304 – Introduction to Database
COSC 305 – Project Management
COSC 310 – Software Engineering
COSC 322 – Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
COSC 328 – Introduction to Networks
COSC 341 – Human Computer Interaction
COSC 344 – Image Processing and Applications
COSC 360 – Web Programming

COSC 407 – Introduction to Parallel Computing
COSC 412 – Mining Software Repositories
COSC 413 – AI for Software Engineering
COSC 414 – Computer Graphics
COSC 416 – Deep Learning
COSC 421 – Network Science
COSC 441 – Advanced Human Computer Interaction
COSC 442 – Educational Game Development
COSC 444 – Computer Vision
COSC 490 – Student-Directed Seminar
COSC 499 – Capstone Software Engineering Project

Plan your academic journey by exploring the first-year planning guides designed for Bachelor of Sciences students.

Explore customized Program Plans designed to support your journey to graduation and beyond.

Careers and Outcomes

UBC degrees are respected by employers around the globe. Program graduates will have the skills to pursue a career in a variety of fields like,

  • Software developer or software engineer
  • AI or machine learning specialist
  • Data analyst, data scientist, or data engineer
  • Cybersecurity analyst or security engineer
  • Web, mobile, or full-stack developer
  • Cloud, systems, or network engineer
  • Database analyst or database administrator
  • User experience, HCI, or interface designer
  • Game, graphics, or interactive media developer
  • Technology consultant, product specialist, or graduate researcher

A Computer Science degree from UBC Okanagan prepares students for careers across technology, research, business, health, education, government, the environment and beyond. As AI changes how work is done, CS graduates are well positioned to understand, evaluate, build and apply AI-powered tools across many fields.

Admission, Fees, Applying

You could soon be studying at one of the world’s top universities. Be sure to review the content below to prepare for attending UBC Okanagan.

Experiential Learning

Expand your horizons while studying abroad, conducting meaningful research, or working in the community with your UBC colleagues.

Learn more about Co-op, Go Global, Undergraduate Research Awards and other opportunities at Experiential Education.

Computer Science students at UBC Okanagan have many opportunities to apply their skills beyond the classroom. Through co-op, course projects, undergraduate research, directed studies, honours projects and community or industry partnerships, students gain practical experience while exploring how computing can solve real-world problems.

Access to Professors

UBC Okanagan offers students the opportunity to connect directly with faculty for course advice, career mentorship and research guidance. Many undergraduate students work one-on-one with professors through directed studies, honours projects and research assistant opportunities. Students who conduct research have published research papers and secure employment with top computing companies.

Research and Career Preparation

Experiential learning helps students build confidence, develop professional skills, and explore future career or graduate study pathways. Whether through co-op, research awards, or faculty-supervised projects, students can graduate with meaningful experience applying computer science in practice.

Global and Close-Knit

At UBC Okanagan, you gain all the benefits of attending a globally ranked, top 3% university while studying in a close-knit learning community.

Discover the Okanagan

A diverse natural region with sandy beaches, beautiful lakes, vineyards, orchards and snow-capped mountains, the Okanagan is an inspirational landscape perfect for those seeking leisure or outdoor adventure.

UBC's Okanagan campus borders the dynamic city of Kelowna, a hub of economic development with a population of more than 150,000 people— the fourth fastest-growing population in Canada.