Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

Computer science is a stimulating, broad field of study that encompasses everything from theory to application. You can study diverse topics like software engineering, programming languages, robotics, compilers, databases, game design and development, operating systems, artificial intelligence, computational biology, computer vision, and the analysis of algorithms.

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in Computer Science will strengthen your analytical thinking and creative problem solving skills. You can explore subjects with a wide range of applications from medicine to business and beyond.

Computer science is a field teeming with innovation. It plays a pivotal role in our economy, culture and personal lives. Did you know that the first internet search engine was created at McGill's School of Computer Science in 1987 by Alan Emtage, a McGill alumnus?

• Canadian citizenship or Canadian permanent residency
• 23 years of age or older by the start of classes (21 years of age for the Faculties of Management and Music)
• No high school, college or university level studies within the last five years that would constitute a basis for admission
• Two letters of reference
• Mature Student Statements:
  • Letter of Intent, including description of all educational experiences
  • Complete resume of employment and other activities, highlighting points relevant to the application
• In some cases, an interview may be required
• Demonstrate academic potential by successfully completing a minimum number of specific courses (see 'Minimum grades & prerequisites' below) within the three-year period prior to admission and no later than May 15th of the year of application for the intended program (May 1 for some programs). These courses, which may be completed at CEGEP or university, will also fulfill prerequisites for the intended program. 

An undergraduate degree in Computer Science holds excellent job prospects. Computers and specialized software play a crucial role in business, science, and our personal lives. Many graduates choose to work in software development, consulting, research, and project management. Computer scientists are in demand across a wide range of fields, including business, engineering and medicine.

You can become a professional:

• Software developer
• Web developer
• Game developer
• Texture artist
• AI developer
• User experience designer

1. Know your deadlines.

   Mark your calendar with these important dates regarding your application. 

2. Decide what to study.

   Use the program finder tool to explore over 300 undergraduate programs and find your best match. 

3. Make sure you're eligible.

   Admission to most programs is based on grades only. In this step, you'll find:
   • How your academic record is reviewed
   • The grades that gained entrance to your program in previous years
   • The prerequisites for your program

4. Get ready to apply.

   As of October 1, you can apply. Complete each step of the pre-application to-do list, including:

   • Understand the deadlines that apply to you
   • Prepare your academic documents
   • Identify supporting documents you'll need to provide

5. Submit your application.

   Review our tips on how to apply and see what the application fees will be. Remember that you can apply to two programs.

6. Apply for an entrance scholarship.

   Look into entrance scholarships early! The deadline is usually a week after your application deadline. This page provides information about entrance scholarships, bursaries, and other funding opportunities.

7. Submit documents and keep in touch.

   We'll connect with you by email to let you know when to upload supporting documents, if required. In this step, you'll see:
   • How to follow your applications status
   • Supporting documents you may need to prepare
   • How to submit supporting documents, including self-reporting your grades