Athabasca University, established in 1970, is Canada’s foremost institution dedicated to online distance education. As one of Alberta’s four comprehensive academic and research universities, Athabasca has pioneered flexible, accessible learning opportunities for students across Canada and beyond for more than 50 years.

The Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Systems is a fully online program designed to provide students with the skills needed to develop and manage computer-based systems in various sectors, including business and education. The program offers a blend of computer science and information systems courses, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

Athabasca University reports a 91 percent employment rate among graduates of this program, with a median income of $89,000. The program’s flexibility and comprehensive curriculum make it an attractive option for those seeking to advance their careers in the IT industry.

Established in 1970, Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops, British Columbia is well known for its commitment to accessible education. Through its Open Learning division, TRU offers a range of distance education programs, including the Bachelor of Computing Science, catering to students across Canada and worldwide.

Students who enter the Bachelor of Computing Science program are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of computing principles and practices. Coursework covers areas such as programming, data structures, algorithms, software engineering, and computer systems. The program’s structure allows for flexibility, accommodating full-time students and working professionals.

TRU’s Open Learning model emphasizes self-paced study, enabling students to progress through courses at their own speed. This approach is particularly beneficial for those balancing education with other commitments. The university supports students through various resources, including academic advising and access to online learning tools. With an employment rate of 87 percent among TRU’s computing science graduates based on BC Student Outcomes data from 2022-24, with a satisfaction rate of 85 percent and a median annual salary of $68,645.

For those seeking a full French-language program in computer science delivered entirely online, Université TÉLUQ offers one of the most flexible and accessible options in Canada. A member of the Université du Québec network, TÉLUQ specializes in distance education and serves more than 20,000 learners annually across its 140+ online programs.

The Bachelor of Computer Science program provides a broad foundation in areas such as software engineering, artificial intelligence, data science, and network security. Students work through the curriculum at their own pace, making the program especially appealing to those balancing academic goals with work or family responsibilities.

TÉLUQ’s fully online model has been developed and refined over decades making high-quality, French-language computer science education accessible from anywhere. Each student is assigned a personal advisor (conseiller aux études) to support them throughout their academic path.

Building on 20+ years of pioneering online business education, the New Brunswick-based University of Fredericton (UFred) has expanded its offerings to include a new Bachelor of Computer Science as of 2025. Much like its acclaimed BBA, MBA, and EMBA programs, this online comp sci degree has no on-campus requirements.

The program uses 8‑week course blocks and rolling admissions, so students can start any time and progress at their own pace. Curriculum development involved close industry consultation to prioritize hands-on, project-based learning. Students gain practical experience in coding, data analysis, cybersecurity, systems administration, and more, and apply their skills through real-world scenarios.

UFred’s model is built from the ground up for online delivery, offering weekly virtual classes, flexible deadlines, and ongoing support from student services and academic advisors.

Algoma University, with campuses in Sault Ste. Marie and Brampton, offers an accelerated Bachelor of Computer Science for students who already hold a degree in another field. The program is available both online and on campus and can be completed in just 12 months.

Courses are delivered in compressed 4- to 6-week blocks and cover core topics including Java and C++ programming, data structures, databases (SQL, Oracle), assembly language, operating systems (Windows and Unix), scripting, and introductory mobile development. While the accelerated stream leads to a three-year Bachelor of Computer Science, students can opt to continue into a fourth year and earn an Honours Bachelor of Science. (This path requires early planning with an advisor.)

Online students benefit from small class sizes (typically 20 to 25), close faculty interaction, and structured academic support. With roughly 18 hours of class time and 36 hours of independent study per week, the workload is intensive and generally not suited to those working full-time. An important note: The co-op option is only available in person at the Brampton campus and has limited space.

Algoma also offers a Collaborative Online Bridging Program for students with computer science-related college diplomas. This pathway allows eligible applicants to complete a Bachelor of Computer Science (General) in roughly one year, starting online in the spring and summer, then transitioning to in-person classes in the fall.

Founded in 1967, Conestoga College has grown from a small regional school into one of Ontario’s leading institutions. With a strong reputation for applied education and industry collaboration, it has consistently delivered programs that reflect real-world workforce needs—particularly in skilled trades, engineering, and IT.

The Honours Bachelor of Computer Science is a hybrid four-year degree that combines academic rigour with practical depth. Designed in consultation with employers, it focuses on building robust, secure, and scalable software systems—an area often underemphasized in more theory-heavy CS programs. Core topics include software quality assurance, cybersecurity, project management, cloud computing, and big data.

One of the program’s standout features is its built-in three paid co-op terms, giving students over a year of full-time, resume-worthy industry experience. This experiential model is key to Conestoga’s strong graduate outcomes: in 2023, the college reported a school-wide 90 percent graduate employment rate within six months, and an employer satisfaction rate exceeding 92 percent.

Seneca Polytechnic in Toronto is one of Canada’s largest public colleges, offering a range of programs that emphasize practical, career-focused education. Established in 1967, Seneca has evolved to provide hybrid learning options, combining online and in-person instruction to accommodate diverse student needs.

The Bachelor of Computer Science program at Seneca is a three-year degree designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in computing. The curriculum covers areas such as software development, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and human-centered design. A mandatory co-op work term, requiring a minimum of 420 hours, allows students to apply their learning in real-world settings, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

79.1 percent of all Seneca grads are employed within six months of graduating and have an employer satisfaction rating of 88.9 percent, reflecting the program’s emphasis on producing job-ready professionals equipped to meet industry demands.

Founded in 1966 as Ontario’s first public college, Centennial has always prioritized practical, career-focused education. Its strong roots in applied learning and its deep ties to Toronto’s tech sector have made it a go-to institution for students who want more than lectures—they want real experience, real tools, and real results.

The Bachelor of Information Technology (Computer and Communication Networks) reflects that ethos. It’s the only four-year degree in Ontario built specifically around IT infrastructure, networking, and communications systems. Delivered in a hybrid format, the program blends the hands-on value of in-person labs with the flexibility of online coursework, ideal for students balancing school with work or commuting demands.

Students use industry-standard equipment, build practical skills in everything from cloud systems to wireless architecture, and complete a mandatory co-op placement to apply it all in the field. With consistent graduate employment rates above 85 percent across Centennial’s degree programs, and 80 percent school-wide, Centennial graduates regularly see success in the post-grad workplace.