Computer Science

Join the Co-op program to jump-start your career by gaining valuable experience in the growing Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) sector with focus on the software and computer services industries. Our students get to work in some of the hottest areas such as data sciences, enterprise software development, mobile applications, telecommunications, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, video gaming, consumer devices, project management, business analysis, and academic research to name a few. While a majority of our employers are from the Lower Mainland we have been able to create opportunities and place students in other parts of Canada, the U.S.A., Asia, and Europe.

Application Deadlines

There are several entry points for admission to the Computer Science Co-op Program. All options will provide you with a similar Co-op experience. Since Co-op placements are competitive, good academic grades and personal projects play an important role in securing a Co-op placement. Therefore, if you are not ready to take CPSC 210 in first year, then take this course either in the summer after your first year or in your second year.

1. First year students – apply in Term 2 (early March) - Your first work term will start in year 2, term 2.

2. Second year or Transfer students – apply either in Term 1 (early October) OR in Term 2 (early March)

Students who take CPSC 121 and/or 210 in the summer after their first year can apply in their second year, term 1. The difference in applying in term 1 or term 2 means a different start time for your first work term. Students typically start their first work term one year after their application term. If you apply in term 1, then your first work term will start in September the following year. If you apply in term 2, then your first work term will start in January the following year.

Computer Science (BSc)

Computer Science (BA and BCom)

BA and BCom students should work with their Co-op Coordinator after admission to develop their Co-op schedule. Students typically start their first work term one year after their application term.

Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS)

BCS students start their first work term one year after their application term.

Application Requirements

When applying, the Computer Science Co-op applicant must:

• Have and maintain a minimum average of 68% or B-
• Be a full time student, majoring in Computer Science
  • Be in the process of applying to Computer Science as your major, if you currently do not have a declared major
  • Students who currently have a declared major should apply to the Co-op program of their current major. If you have been accepted by the Co-op program of your current major and later transfer your major to Computer Science, then we will work with your former Co-op Coordinator to transfer you to Computer Science Co-op
• Have a minimum of 30 credits remaining in your degree, excluding the current term (at the time of application)
• Have completed CPSC 110 and are in the process of completing CPSC 121 and CPSC 210 (or have completed transfer equivalents)
• BCS (second bachelor’s degree) applicants should be in the process of completing CPSC 110
• Demonstrate maturity as well as strong communication, self-motivation, time management and teamwork skills
• Be flexible and willing to relocate outside of Vancouver 

Co-op Overview PDF

Work-Term Schedules

Schedule A for BSc Students - Spring Application

Schedule B for BSc Students - Fall Application

Schedule for BCS Students- Fall Application

Schedule for BA or BCom Students- Spring Application

Schedule for BA or BCom Students - Fall Application

The above schedules are highly recommended by the Co-op Program in order for students to complete their program within the shortest time frame. Alternate scheduling is available in consultation with your Co-op Coordinator.  

Sample Jobs and Companies