A global perspective in computer science can be valuable in the international technology workforce. Studying in Quebec gives students access to universities with computer science programs taught primarily in English or French.
Quebec’s universities offer computer science studies at the undergraduate and graduate levels, with opportunities to explore areas such as artificial intelligence, software engineering, data science, robotics, and bioinformatics. Read on to learn more about five universities that offer computer science programs in Quebec.
Top Schools Offering Computer Science in Quebec
1. McGill University
McGill University offers computer science through its School of Computer Science. Undergraduate students can pursue computer science through Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, and joint Bachelor of Arts and Science pathways, depending on the specific program. Graduate offerings include master’s and Ph.D. programs.
The School of Computer Science introduces students to both the theoretical and practical aspects of the field. Its teaching and research cover areas such as artificial intelligence, algorithms, bioinformatics, computer graphics, computer vision, data science, machine learning, and robotics.
Computer science graduates may pursue careers in areas such as software development, research, consulting, data analysis, and technology entrepreneurship. The range of undergraduate programs also allows students to combine computer science with subjects in the arts, sciences, and other disciplines.
At the master’s level, McGill offers thesis and non-thesis options. The non-thesis program replaces the research thesis with a project and additional coursework.
2. Universite de Montreal
Université de Montréal offers computer science programs through its Department of Computer Science and Operations Research, commonly known by its French abbreviation, DIRO. The department offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies in computer science.
DIRO’s teaching and research encompass areas such as artificial intelligence, computer vision, deep learning, machine learning, natural language processing, neural networks, and operations research. Its computer science programs emphasize theoretical foundations while also introducing students to programming and emerging technologies.
Graduates can apply their skills in software development, artificial intelligence, data science, cloud computing, research, operations research, and other technology-related fields.
In addition to its bachelor’s degree in computer science, the department offers interdisciplinary undergraduate programs in bioinformatics, mathematics and computer science, and physics and computer science.
3. Concordia University
Concordia University is an English-language university in Montreal. Its Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering is part of the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science and offers undergraduate and graduate programs in computer science.
The department offers separate programs in computer science and software engineering. The Bachelor of Computer Science curriculum covers areas such as computer science theory, mathematical foundations, programming methodology, computer architecture, data structures, operating systems, and software engineering.
At the graduate level, Concordia offers a thesis-based Master of Computer Science and a course-based Master of Applied Computer Science. The university also offers a research- and thesis-based Ph.D. in Computer Science.
4. Universite du Quebec
The Université du Québec is a province-wide university network. However, the study-program link above leads specifically to the Department of Computer Science at the Université du Québec à Montréal, or UQAM. Therefore, the program information in this section refers to UQAM rather than every institution in the Université du Québec network.
UQAM’s Department of Computer Science offers programs at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Its current offerings include a bachelor’s degree in computer science and software engineering, a research-based master’s degree in computer science, and a Ph.D. in Computer Science.
The master’s program offers concentrations in systems electronics, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence. The doctoral program covers fundamental and applied fields such as artificial intelligence, computer systems, software engineering, systems electronics, theoretical computer science, and telecommunications computing.
Applicants to UQAM’s bachelor’s program in computer science and software engineering must demonstrate the required level of French proficiency. Prospective students should review the language requirements listed on the official program page before applying.
5. Universite Laval
Concluding our list is Université Laval, the oldest French-language university in North America. Its Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering offers computer science studies at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.
The bachelor’s program combines theoretical and practical study in areas such as algorithms, data structures, operating systems, programming languages, and computer systems. Graduate students can choose from course-based, internship-based, and research-focused master’s programs, depending on the option selected.
Université Laval also offers a 90-credit Ph.D. in Computer Science that is normally completed through full-time study. Research areas include artificial intelligence, combinatorial optimization, complexity theory, cybersecurity, robotics, and wireless networks.
Most courses at Université Laval are taught in French. Students should consult the official requirements for their chosen program because expectations regarding French and English proficiency may vary by program and level of study.
These Quebec universities provide a range of computer science pathways, from multidisciplinary undergraduate degrees to specialized graduate research. Prospective students should compare each program’s curriculum, teaching language, admission requirements, and available study options before applying.
We hope this article on the Best Universities for Computer Science in Quebec was helpful. Also, check out the Study in Canada and Available Courses for International Students!
