| UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO ADMISSIONS 2020

DAVID R. CHERITON

SCHOOL OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

#BEYONDIDEAS

COMPUTER SCIENCE | 1

BEYOND BINARY

cs.uwaterloo.ca

Join a program with an international reputation.The David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science is the

largest academic computer science research centre in Canada.

With 16 research areas and deep connections to Canada’s

growing tech sector, you’ll have the chance to help uncover

the newest research, and experience your own entrepreneurial

adventure, while working alongside leading experts.

#22 in the world (2019 QS World University Rankings)

27 years as Canada’s most innovative university (Maclean’s 2019 reputational survey)

99.2% of graduates employed within 2 years

KAYLA

HONOURS COMPUTER SCIENCE, CO-OP

COMPUTING FOR A CAUSEDrawn to the idea of utilizing interdisciplinary thinking to solve global challenges, Kayla is using computer science to make a positive impact on our environment.

Since representing the University at the 2016 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Morocco, Kayla has gone on to work with the government to explore the potential of blockchain in the renewable energy sector. On campus, she’s a founding member of the Impact Alliance, a central network of student leaders working to create a more sustainable future.

#SUSTAINABLESTUDIES#ENERGYEDUCATION

2 | UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO

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COMPUTER SCIENCE | 3

CODE TO SUCCESSWhat captures your imagination? At the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science, you’ll choose from a wide

variety of courses, combined programs, and options to broaden your understanding

of the science of computing. It’s not just theory and practice – here you’ll learn how to

apply computer science to help solve today’s pervasive problems and change the world!

TAILORED FOR YOU Waterloo is leading the way in

key research areas, bringing you

opportunities to pursue your

interests. With 70+ courses, and

tons of options and electives, you

can create a degree tailored to

your specific interests. Upper-

year classes are offered in

artificial intelligence, quantum

computing, bioinformatics,

cybersecurity and privacy, and 13

other in-demand research areas.

STUDENT SUPPORT We know that your first year of

university brings a lot of change,

and that can be challenging. We

are here to help you thrive and

succeed. Academic support is

available through the Mathematics

Tutorial Centre, academic advisors,

and the Student Success Office. In

addition, on-campus counselling

and peer support options can

support your mental health

and well-being.

COMMUNICATION COUNTS Employers are looking for more

than just technical skills – strong

communication skills are a top

priority. You’ll complete two

communications courses that

will expand your current skill

set and prepare you for academic

and professional success.

uwaterloo.ca/math/communication-counts

16 unique research areas

Algorithms and complexity

Artificial intelligence

Bioinformatics

Computer algebra and symbolic computation

Computer graphics

Cryptography, security, privacy

Data systems

Formal methods

Health informatics

Human-computer interaction

Machine learning

Programming languages

Quantum computing

Scientific computing

Software engineering

Systems and networking

Boot up your application. Interested in applying to a computer science

program at Waterloo? Here are some tips

and suggestions to start preparing.

PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!Did you know? Waterloo offers free, open courseware that can

teach you new skills or supplement your programming knowledge.

You have access to lessons designed by world-class instructors,

interactive worksheets, and unlimited opportunity for practice!

uwaterloo.ca/mathematics-online-learning

COME CHECK US OUT

Waterloo hosts two Open Houses each year, giving you the

opportunity to meet professors and students, ask your admissions

questions, and even sit in on a sample first-year lecture! Can’t make

it? Check out our website for information on in-person and virtual

tours, or to see if we’re planning a visit to your school.

CONSIDER A CONTESTTest your abilities and have

fun doing it! Participation in

mathematics contests is not

mandatory, but it is recommended:

it will enhance your application,

and it’s required to be considered

for scholarships. You’ll find more

information and contest dates

on page 13.

4 | UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO COMPUTER SCIENCE | 5

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COMPUTER SCIENCEApplications. Solutions. Innovations. From machine learning to big data, you’ll explore the

many ways that computer science is changing our world.

Using a combination of theory, practice, and application, you’ll

develop a broad understanding of computer science in areas

including systems and networks, algorithms, and software

engineering, with the opportunity to explore more in-depth

areas of study. Learn how to solve real-world problems by

applying mathematical and computer science skills. After

graduation, you’ll be able to apply your broad and deep

knowledge to provide solutions in a wide variety of fields.

Co-op or regular

Earn your Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS) degree,

accredited by the Computer Science Accreditation Council

of the Canadian Information Processing Society

BEYOND BASICS Pursue your passion with our interdisciplinary specializations:

Bioinformatics

Business

Computational Fine Arts

Digital Hardware

Artificial Intelligence

Human-Computer Interaction

Software Engineering

CAREER POSSIBILITIES

Software architect or developer Business or risk modelling analyst

It’s really special to be a part

of a group of people who are

like me and are passionate

about math and computer

science in the same way

I am. To be surrounded by

knowledgeable, bright peers

in this environment is an

experience like no other.

JONATHAN

COMPUTER SCIENCE, CO-OP

DATA SCIENCE Dive into data and predict the future. Every day, huge amounts of data are generated by business, scientific, and

social activity taking place all around us. With data coming from sensors, digital

images, streaming video, satellite and medical imagery, and from interactions

with cloud computing, data-driven approaches to decision making are being

applied in areas as diverse as medicine, business, advertising, and entertainment.

To make sense of it all, you’ll take courses in computer science and statistics,

and learn the methods used to analyze large data sets in order to predict

and improve business strategy, products and services, marketing campaigns,

medicine, public health, and safety.

Apply to Computer Science (BCS) or Mathematics (BMath)

Co-op or regular

#1“Sexiest job of

the 21st century”

HARVARD

BUSINESS REVIEW

SOFTWARE

ENGINEERINGHelp build a smart world.Apply computer science and engineering principles and practices to design, create,

and maintain computer software. In a world where new technologies are developed

every minute, software engineers are in demand for their ability to make software

more affordable, faster to build, and easier to maintain. You’ll instantly experience

the benefits of Waterloo’s Software Engineering program, which combines our

strengths in computer science and computer engineering. Through project-intensive

classes and co-op, you’ll learn to develop complex software systems that ensure the

reliability, performance, and usability demanded by today’s industrial and business

applications. You’ll gain skills in communication, business, and reasoning, and

benefit from our focus on teamwork and collaboration.

Co-op only

Earn your Bachelor of Software Engineering (BSE)

1,000+ technology companies in the Waterloo Region, providing co-op and employment opportunities.

6 | UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO COMPUTER SCIENCE | 7

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KATHRINE

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

AND COMPUTER SCIENCE, DOUBLE DEGREE

Kathrine chose Waterloo for our culture of innovation, and for the

invaluable experience she’s gained during her co-op terms.

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND COMPUTER SCIENCE DOUBLE DEGREECombine the worlds of bytes and business. Combine the society-changing power of computer science with the world

of business in this co-op only program. In just five years you will earn two

degrees – a full honours computer science degree from the University of

Waterloo and a full honours business administration degree from nearby

Wilfrid Laurier University. Learn about software, algorithms, programming,

and the limits of computation, while also studying brand communication,

accounting, human resources, marketing, and finance.

Co-op only

Earn two degrees: your Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS) from Waterloo,

and your Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Laurier.

2 FULL DEGREES

in five years

CAREER POSSIBILITIES

Business intelligence systems analyst

Chartered Professional Accountant

Chartered Financial Analyst

COMPUTING AND

FINANCIAL MANAGEM

ENT

One degree. Twice the expertise.Financial technology is a growing trillion-dollar industry that needs professionals

who understand complicated financial concepts, and who have the technical

skills to create the software tools needed to solve complex problems.

If you want a career in computer science, finance, or a combination of both

– financial technology – the CFM program can help you stand out in the

marketplace. Earn a specialized degree that includes majors in computer science

and financial management, and up to six co-op terms to grow your experience.

A career in financial technology, computer science, or finance is waiting for you!

Co-op only

Earn a Bachelor of Computing and Financial Management degree

Become a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). With the financial expertise

you’ll develop, you can write the Level 1 CFA exam as early as your fourth year.

CAREER POSSIBILITIES

Equities or quantitative analyst

Financial engineer

BOARDROOM BOUND?

See our Math, Business, and Accounting brochure for additional programs.

MUSIC AND MARKETSNot only is Julia finding harmony between computer science and finance, she’s also making music as a cellist with the UWaterloo orchestra. And the two can go hand in hand.

“The crossover between technology and the fine arts isn’t as drastic as people might think. Technology is becoming more integrated, and the lines are being blurred.”

#CELLOCFM#FINEARTSTECH

JULIA

CFM, CO-OP

COMPUTER SCIENCE | 98 | UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO

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CO-OP: EARN AS YOU LEARNGet ahead of the competition with up to two years of work

experience. You can explore potential careers, build your

network, master new skills, and help pay for tuition, books,

housing, or anything else you need.

HOW CO-OP WORKSYou’ll alternate study terms and work terms.

Computer Science has multiple study/work

sequences available, which you will request

when making your course selection.

You’re not alone in the process. The Centre for Career Action is here

to help all students polish their résumés, develop interview skills, and

navigate their career paths.

uwaterloo.ca/co-operative-education

EXPERIENCE MATTERSWaterloo is a global leader in co-operative education. Typical positions include:

Web developer/architect

Mobile/cloud developer

Bioinformatics database developer

Data management officer

Software engineer

Software designer

Software development

BIG DATA, BIG PROBLEMS, BIG FUNGet your hands dirty solving real-world problems. Whether you’re diving deep into data, pushing your programming skills to the limit, or hacking to help the world, Waterloo has an event for you. Form a squad and dig in!

#HANDSONHACKING#DOMINATEDATA#TEAMWORKTAKEOVER

98.7% co-op employment rate

$8,400-$20,190student reported earnings per term (Canada only)

BRING YOUR LESSONS TO LIFEGo beyond the classroom

with experiential learning.

Our students are applying their

understanding of the power of computing

and their technical skills at events across

campus and around the world! We’re the

home of Hack the North, StarterHacks,

Equithon, the Data Open, Datafest,

programming contests, iGEM, and more.

7,000+ employers across the globe

#1 in Canada for experiential learning (Maclean’s Student Satisfaction Ranking)

IDEAS GROW HEREWaterloo is home to a thriving entrepreneurial community. If you have a brilliant idea that you want to develop, we’ll give you the resources and support you need to turn it into a reality.

COMPUTER SCIENCE | 1110 | UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO

GEAR UP PI DAY

SOC IT TO ME

VIRTUAL REALITY

SHARE YOUR PRIDE

CE

LEB

RATE

EQ

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GE

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TIVE

CO

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UTS

TEA

M U

P GEAR UP Calculator? Check. Laptop? Check. Grab water and snacks, and get to class!

CELEBRATE EQUITY No matter how you identify, celebrate diversity at events thrown by Women

in Computer Science (WiCS), HeForShe, Women in Math (WiM), and others. PI DAY Whether you’re

eating pie or throwing it, circle March 14 on your calendar. We give out more than 1,300 free slices

of pie every year at 1:59 p.m. GET ACTIVE Varsity, intramurals, or just a game of pickup – no

matter your skill level, you can always find ways to break a sweat. VIRTUAL REALITY Access to the

latest tech, research positions and connections to industry and entrepreneurship opportunities

open doors for you to put your creativity and talent to the test. TEAM UP Flex your creative

muscles too – there are plenty of opportunities to take part in hackathons, datathons, and more.

(You could even earn some cash!) SOC IT TO ME The Mathematics Society (MathSoc) provides

services to make your life easier, and events to help you unwind – like a huge library of board

games. COFFEE AND DONUTS Mmmm ... donuts. You won’t have to go far to find the best coffee,

snacks, and lunch on campus! Run by MathSoc, there’s something for everyone at the Math C&D.

SHARE YOUR PRIDE Get involved and share your Waterloo spirit. Volunteer as an Orientation guide

or a faculty ambassador to spotlight what you love about campus and encourage future students.

BITS AND BYTES

SEE MORE OF LIFE ON CAMPUS! FOLLOW US @WATERLOOMATH

Life’s about balance.

We want you to play as hard

as you work. With more

than 200 clubs and student

groups on campus, there’s

something for everyone.

12 | UNIVERSIT COMPUTER SCIENCE | 13COMPUTER SCIENCE | 1312 | UNIVERSITY OF WY OF WAATERLTERLOOOO

ADMISSIONSHOW TO APPLY1. Apply online and pay fees through the

Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).

2. Watch for an acknowledgement email with your next steps and Waterloo ID number.

3. Submit any additional required documents, including your AIF, on time.

4. Accept your Offer of Admission through OUAC, and submit your Residence Community Ranking Form and deposit.

For detailed info:

uwaterloo.ca/math/future-undergraduates

AN ADMISSION INFORMATION FORM (AIF)IS REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION!Your AIF is submitted through Quest after you complete your OUAC application. It includes questions about your extracurriculars and work experience. It’s your opportunity to tell us what makes you a unique and well-rounded student, and will help us make admissions decisions.

2020 REQUIREMENTSPROGRAM (apply to)/ System of Study

REQUIRED COURSES Grade 12 U unless otherwise specified. Minimum requirements: 6 Grade 12 U or M courses, including all required courses

ADMISSION AVERAGE (includes required courses)

Business Administration (Laurier) and Computer Science (Waterloo) Double Degree Co-op Advanced Functions, Calculus and Vectors,

any 12 U English, one other Grade 12 U course, Admission Information Form

Individual selection* from the mid 90s

Computer ScienceCo-op or regular

Individual selection* from the low-to-mid 90s

Computing and Financial Management Co-op

Advanced Functions, Calculus and Vectors, any 12 U English (min 75%), one other Grade 12 U course, Admission Information Form

Individual selection* from the low-to-mid 90s

Software Engineering Co-op

Advanced Functions (min 70%), Calculus and Vectors (min 70%), Chemistry (min 70%), English (min 70%), Physics (min 70%), Admission Information FormExperience in developing well-structured modular programs is also required

Individual selection* from the low-to-mid 90s

*Individual selection speaks to content submitted on the Admission Information Form. Admission decisions are strongly based on academic performance, but extracurricular activities and extenuating circumstances are also taken into consideration.

IT’S WORTH THE WAIT!In an effort to base our decisions on the most relevant grades possible, most admissions offers are made in mid-May. We base our final decisions on your interim or final grades in required courses, your AIF, and your Euclid, Canadian Computing Competition (CCC), or Canadian Senior Math Contest (CSMC) score (if applicable) from the year you apply.

TIPSShow us how you’re involved in activities outside of the classroom and in the world around you.

Demonstrate your ability to manage multiple activities and priorities while performing at a high level.

Use the “Additional Information” fields to highlight what’s special or different about your extracurriculars, awards, and/or employment.

Even if you haven’t already been participating in computing and mathematics contests, strongly consider writing the Euclid, CCC, or CSMC.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTSIf English is not your first language and your four most recent years of full-time education have not been taught in English, you’ll be required to submit one of these English language test scores.

INTERNET-BASED TOEFL IELTS MELAB CAEL PTE (academic)

90 overall;25 writing;25 speaking

6.5 overall;6.5 writing; 6.5 speaking; 6.0 reading; and 6.0 listening

85 overall;80 per section;for co-op programs, 3 speaking

70 overall; 60 per band; 70 writing; 70 speaking

63 overall; 65 writing; 65 speaking

If you’re applying to the Faculty of Mathematics and achieve an overall IELTS score of 7.0 (with no band score below 6.0), you meet the requirements needed for admission. Get deadlines and other details:

uwaterloo.ca/future/elr

MATH/ENGLISH LANGUAGE

FOR ACADEMIC STUDIES (MATH/ELAS)

Strong applicants who need

additional training to meet our

English language requirements may

receive an alternative offer of admission

to Math/ELAS, instead of a direct offer

of admission to the program they

applied to. Find out more:

uwaterloo.ca/math/elas

CONTESTSGet contest preparation resources, registration details, and deadlines:

cemc.uwaterloo.ca

EUCLID MATHEMATICS CONTEST

While the Euclid Mathematics Contest is not required for admission, your participation is strongly encouraged, and is an asset to your application. You must participate in the Euclid Contest or CSMC to be considered for a Math Entrance Scholarship. The contest will be written in your high school on April 7 or 8, 2020.

CANADIAN SENIOR MATHCONTEST (CSMC)

While the CSMC is not required for admission, your participation is strongly encouraged, and is an asset to your application. You must participate in the CSMC or Euclid Contest to be considered for a Math Entrance Scholarship. The contest will be written in your high school on November 20 or 21, 2019.

CANADIAN COMPUTINGCOMPETITION (CCC)

The CCC is not required for admission, but a high score may be an asset for admission to David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science programs. The CCC will be written on February 12 or 13, 2020.

FINANCING YOUR EDUCATIONWhen thinking about university, it’s important to prepare a realistic budget for your first eight months (two terms).

List your financial needs: tuition and other student fees, residence fees, books, supplies, and living expenses. uwaterloo.ca/future/financing

List the financial resources available to fund your education: savings, RESP, and co-op earnings (if applicable).

If you’re eligible, augment your resources with scholarships, provincial financial aid (such as the Ontario Student Assistance Program), and a Waterloo Entrance Bursary.

You only pay four months (one term) at a time.

Participate in contests and apply for entrance scholarships.

ENTRANCE SCHOLARSHIPS PRESIDENT’S AND MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS No application

FACULTY OF MATHEMATICS SCHOLARSHIPS APPLICATION REQUIRED uwaterloo.ca/math/entrance-scholarships

FACULTY OF MATHEMATICS ENTRANCE SCHOLARSHIPS No application; must write Euclid Contest and/or CSMC

Scholarships ranging in value from $1,000 to $5,000 – awarded to all students who meet marks criteria

Scholarships ranging in value from $12,000 to full cost

150 scholarships ranging in value from $2,000 to $15,000

Based on marks:85-89.9% – $1,000;90-94.9% – $2,000;≥95% – $2,000+ (up to $5,000)

Based on application, high academic performance, and outstanding extracurricular achievements

Based on marks, AIF, Euclid Contest, and/or CSMC score

uwaterloo.ca/future/scholarships

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COME VISIT US!FALL OPEN HOUSE

NOVEMBER 2, 2019

MARCH BREAK OPEN HOUSE

MARCH 21, 2020

DAVID R. CHERITON SCHOOL OF COMPUTER SCIENCE 519-888-4567, EXT. 38616

future-ugrad@cs.uwaterloo.ca

cs.uwaterloo.ca

COMPUTING AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS

519-888-4567, EXT. 37033

bcfm@uwaterloo.ca

uwaterloo.ca/cfm

waterloo.math WaterlooMath WaterlooMath

UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO 200 UNIVERSITY AVE. W., WATERLOO, ON, CANADA N2L 3G1

uwaterloo.ca/future-students

DESIGN CREATIVE SERVICES, UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO EDITORIAL A. BEARD, A. KENNEDY PLEASE RECYCLE C016722