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featuredUniversity of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF)
Master of Computer Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence
Online
Sep 1 - Mar 1, 2028
Tuition
$22,500
Scholarships available
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featuredSep 1 - Sep 1, 2030
Tuition
$25,416
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featuredTuition
$26,025
Scholarships available
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featuredOnline
Sep 1 - Sep 1, 2030
Tuition
$28,586
Scholarships available
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featuredTuition
$31,200
- featured
Tuition
$47,883
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- featured
Tuition
$63,844
Scholarships available
About
How many businesses can thrive today without at least some digital operations? Canadian organizations have a consistent, growing need for computer science professionals – those with expert technical knowledge who can design and develop computer software, creating and maintaining digital solutions for their employers.
Computer scientist roles are hugely varied; where one professional might provide technical support for office-based corporations, another might maintain government websites, while yet another creates animated movies or video games. Skilled professionals trained in computer science will find plenty of employment opportunities throughout the country in every sector.
Canadian institutions offer many programs for those who are interested in developing computer science skills. For the most part, students will earn a comp sci degree at a college or university, such as the programs offered at the best computer science universities in Canada.
Computer science degrees tend to be four-year full-time programs, such as the Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Conestoga College, whereas focused courses and certifications can be as short as five weeks, like the online Python programming course at BrainStation. However, there are a growing number of online computer science degree programs that offer the benefits of online asynchronous learning while earning a full bachelor\’s degree.
That said, to keep up with the rapid pace of technological change, computer science professionals will likely find themselves taking skill-developing courses and certifications in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, data science, software engineering, and more. Prospective computer scientists can gain crucial skills in their chosen field, which will usually include at least partial proficiency in one or more programming languages, practice in data analysis, problem solving, and more.
Computer science continues to evolve rapidly, with pathways to become software engineers, computer technicians, web developers, AI consultants, information technology (IT) specialists, and more. While earnings vary based on role and seniority, computer science is a well-compensated field, with average salaries regularly above $100,000 even for mid-level workers, and experience senior talent earning much more.
FAQ
What is the difference between a computer scientist and a computer programmer?
Where computer programmers focus on building and maintaining existing software by writing and testing computer code, computer scientists leverage algorithms, mathematics, and network design to research and test new technology – such as AI and machine learning – to create cutting-edge software. While a computer scientist may also write code, their main focus is to use theoretical knowledge and mathematical models to develop new technology systems.
Computer science graduates may go on to hold roles as software engineers, AI consultants, network architects, and more.
Compare computer science degrees vs coding bootcamps to see which path is right for you.
Can computer science be replaced by AI?
Despite shifts in the tech industry and the increasing sophistication of AI programs such as ChatGPT (which are capable of solving programming problems and creating code in languages and scripts like Python and Java), computer science remains an extremely relevant, in-demand field. In fact, because of the increasing prevalence of AI, there is a growing need for professionals who are trained in its use and who are able to properly use it as a tool. The rapid pace of change in tech makes a computer science degree more valuable and useful, not less.
Computer science programs cover all sorts of facets of tech and computing, including cloud computing, the Internet of Things, big data analysis, and cybersecurity, among others. From fluency in various coding languages to the ability to design, test, and manage computing systems, the learning outcomes of these courses can also be extremely beneficial for other roles in the tech industry, such as product management or user experience (UX) design.
Which computer scientists jobs are in demand?
The more cutting-edge the technology is, the more in-demand computer scientists with the requisite proficiencies tend to be. This includes AI engineers, cloud computing specialists, data engineers, and software engineers. Technology is constantly improving, meaning computer scientists must continuously educate themselves on the latest trends in order to keep pace with the industry.
Is a computer science degree required to get a job in the field?
Typically, to work as a computer science specialist — in roles such as a software engineer, AI engineer, or a network architect — a degree is required, like those offered at the top computer science universities in Canada, or as well as online computer science degree programs. Many of the best engineering schools in Canada have top tier software engineering programs.
However, not all jobs in the computer science industry require a full degree; for roles like cybersecurity analysts, web developers, data analysts or computer programmers, among others, a certificate or diploma may be sufficient.
This article details the different prospective career outcomes for bootcamp certificates compared to computer science bachelor’s degrees.
How much does a computer scientist earn in Canada?
As there are many fields within the category of computer science, it’s difficult to predict how much someone with a comp sci degree will earn. While earnings vary based on role and seniority, computer science is a well-compensated field, with average salaries regularly above $100,000 even for mid-level talent. For example, according to Talent.com, network architects — a technical role that manages communication networks for a company — can expect to earn $104,990 at the start of their career, with more seasoned professionals making up to $153,615 per year.
Certification
Many of the computer science jobs in Canada require a degree in computer science from an accredited academic institution; these can include software engineers, network architects, and AI consultants.
For those looking to work in a management of expert-level role, such as an information systems manager, a Master’s degree might be preferred. Other roles, like a computer programmer, may not require a degree at all, with a certificate or diploma being sufficient.
That said, beyond the minimum requirement threshold for a role, all those in the computer science field should regularly undergo training to stay on top of evolving technology while cultivating new, applicable skills. Job seekers looking to stand out may choose to obtain one or more comp sci certificates, to signal to potential employers that they have the experience, training, and skills required to fulfill their role.
For example, Canada’s Association of Information Technology Professionals (CIPS) offers three professional IT designations:
- Associate Information Technology Professional (AITP), which is tailored for recent university or college graduates with a degree in a relevant field — from comp sci to software engineering — ahead of taking the ISP (below), which requires between two to seven years of IT professional work experience.
- Information Systems Professional (ISP) is Canada’ only lawfully-recognized IT designation, confirming a professional’s technical expertise. ISP currently provides designations in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
- Information Technology Certified Professional (ICTP): This is the highest level of certificate offered by CIPS, for senior IT professionals to showcase not just their technical expertise, but also how they can apply that expertise towards organizational excellence.
There are also globally-recognized certifications such as the Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP), which offers four different certification levels, ranging from ‘associate’ — requiring six months to five years of industry experience — all the way to ‘fellow’, requiring a minimum of 25 years of experience.
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is another globally-recognized certificate, showing a professional’s expertise in the design, management and securing of data. Eligible candidates must have at least five years of work experience; three of those years must be in information security, and one year must be in one or more of the CCSP’s current exam outline, including cloud security operations, legal, risk and compliance, and more.
Students in the University of Fredericton’s (UFred’s) Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS) program gain a comprehensive understanding of computing theory and develop practical, real-world skills to meet the demands of today’s digital workforce. The BCS includes a structured mix of … Continue reading
Tuition
$31,200
Tuition
$31,200
The Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) degree is a four-year program, including three paid co-op work terms, which will prepare graduates for a number of progressive job opportunities as high quality software developers. Building upon the recognized foundations of computer … Continue reading
The Honours Bachelor of Information Technology (Computer and Communications Networks) program at Centennial College offers an in-depth education in the design, implementation, and management of IT systems and networks. As technology continues to be integral to business, communication, and innovation, … Continue reading
Humber’s Bachelor of Engineering program begins with a foundational first year that provides students with essential engineering knowledge and skills. After the first year, the curriculum branches into three distinct discipline areas: Information Systems Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, and Sustainable Building … Continue reading
The University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive Computer Science program that balances theoretical foundations with practical applications. Students gain a strong mathematical framework supporting emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, with the option to apply for a … Continue reading
Tuition
$72,000
Mohawk College’s Computer Engineering Technology – Mechatronic Systems program offers students a dynamic and comprehensive education, equipping them with the skills needed to work in modern, automated industrial environments. With a focus on integrating automation, robotics, networking, and data handling, … Continue reading
Tuition
$8,124
Tuition
$8,124
Tuition & Completion Data
Domestic
Last updated: November 26, 2025
International
See below for the latest data on international student tuition across Canada, excluding housing costs and ancillary fees.
Source: Statistics Canada 2023
Careers
The Government of Canada’s Canadian Occupational Projection System predicts that there will be a balanced job market for the computer science industry over the next 10 years, as the industry adjusts alongside the evolution of new technology.
Below are some of the types of jobs that computer scientists can pursue, with salary ranges reflecting the difference in salaries for entry-level employees starting out and more senior workers with significant experience under their belts. What’s more, with the rapid pace of industry development, the next few years will likely bring about new additional roles and responsibilities that aren’t even defined yet.
Computer Technician – $35,000 – $54,000Â
When computer users need assistance with their device’s hardware or software, they call upon computer technicians. These professionals are employed by retailers, software development companies, and call centres to help their clients troubleshoot technical problems as needed.
Computer Programmer – $49,000 – $85,000
Programmers write the computer code required to build a product – whether that is a website, application, or another system. These professionals often follow the existing coding frameworks created by software engineers.
Web Developer – $60,000 – $85,000
A web developer uses various programming languages (especially JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and Python) to design, create, and maintain websites. They may operate independently, or for software development firms, IT consulting firms, and advertising agencies.
IT Specialist – $67,000 – $110,000
IT specialists test, assess, and analyze computer system requirements, provide advice on issues in information systems, and implement various policies and procedures. Whether they work independently, for a consulting firm, or directly for a company in both the public and private sectors, IT specialists require excellent communications skills, regularly communicating with both tech and non-tech teams.
Data Analyst – $70,000 – $110,000Â
Leveraging strong critical-thinking skills, proficiency with data visualization tools, and knowledge of coding languages, data analysts interpret a company’s data, identifying trends and creating predictive models that can improve a business’ operations. Data analysts can be found across industries, from the government to banking to manufacturing and beyond.
Software Engineer – $85,000 – $132,000
A software engineer creates programs or systems according to the needs of their clients or users, using languages such as Python, Java, and C++. They often interact with their clients throughout the process, and may work independently or for other IT firms.
Cybersecurity Specialist – $90,000 – $144,000
Cybersecurity specialists work to protect computer systems and networks from theft and damage by putting security measures in place, and ensuring workplace compliance with those security measures. Should a system be compromised, cyber security specialists respond and resolve threats.
Information Systems Manager – $93,000 – $148,000
With an expert-level background in IT and database management, an information systems manager oversees an organization’s IT infrastructure, supporting strategic planning for IT systems, while maintaining internal networks to ensure smooth operations for staff.
AI Engineer – $88,000 – $155,000
AI Engineers are typically data scientists who use machine learning and predictive modeling to develop artificial intelligence for private companies, universities, banks, and other organizations. They are responsible for creating or evolving AI algorithms and models, and implementing them to serve the needs of their employers.
Network Architect – $104,000 – $153,000
Highly-skilled technical professionals, network architects are hired to design, implement and manage communication infrastructures for organizations ranging from the government to telecoms, corporate companies, and more. These networks must be secure, complying with cybersecurity regulations, while also being scalable, to meet the growing needs of the organization – whether that’s for two offices in two different buildings, or a Cloud infrastructure serving thousands of clients.
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) – $150,000 – $200,000
A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is a senior-level executive who oversees a company’s information, cyber and technology security. The role also requires developing, implementing, and enforcing security policies.
Learn more about what careers you can get with a computer science degree.
Salaries
The average salary for an entry-level computer science role in Canada typically ranges between $60,000 – $65,000, depending on the specialization, according to data collected from Talent.com, Indeed, Glassdoor and Canada’s Job Bank.
Mid to more senior roles regularly average annual salaries upwards of $100,000, particularly in roles that involve specialized training and certifications.
Here is a closer look at salary ranges based on job type and seniority:
| Role | Average Salary in Canada |
|---|---|
| Computer Technician | $43,339 |
| Computer Programmer | $59,905 |
| Web Developer | $70,367 |
| IT Specialist | $73,942 |
| Data Analyst | $91,948 |
| Software Engineer | $101,650 |
| Cybersecurity Specialist | $105,168 |
| Information Systems Manager | $109,955 |
| AI Engineer | $113,597 |
| Network Architect | $116,798 |
| Chief Information Security Officer | $179,557 |