Software Engineering (Faculty of Arts)

Software engineers design, develop and test the software programs that apply computer technology to everyday processes. Things as fundamental to our daily lives as downloading e-mails or scanning barcodes at the grocery store would not be possible without software engineers. The needs and opportunities are endless.   

This program offers foundational knowledge in computer and electrical engineering. You will develop the skills needed to design, create and troubleshoot complex software systems. Our programs allow you to round out your education with complementary courses in the social sciences, management, humanities and law.  

The Bachelor of Software Engineering in the Faculty of Arts will teach you the principles, techniques and methodology of software engineering as you explore a range of other subjects. Please note, however, that this program does not lead to certification as a professional engineer. 

This program is offered through the Faculty of Engineering and the School of Computer Science.  

• 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. 

Though the BA in Software Engineering does not lead to certification as a professional engineer, you will graduate with many marketable skills for careers in areas like programing, web and game development, and technology administration. You may also wish to pursue graduate studies.  

You could become a professional: 

• Database administrator 
• Software tester 
• Web developer 
• Game developer 
• Multimedia programmer 

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