Difference Between Options and Specializations
The School of Computing offers a number of programs spanning multiple disciplines; there's certain to be one that engages you and your interests. There are two main configurations:
- a Computing Major or Computer Science Specialization with a choice of Options; or
- another Specialization.
| Computing Major | Computer Science Specialization | Other Specializations | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can be combined with a Minor | Yes | No | No |
| Option appears on diploma | No | No | - |
| Specialization appears on diploma | - | Yes | Yes |
| CIPS accredited | No | Yes | Software Design only |
| Results in Bachelor of Computing | Yes | Yes | Yes, except for Computing and the Creative Arts |
Computing Major With Option
Artificial Intelligence
Learn how the human mind works and develop computational algorithms to create machine intelligence
Biomedical Computation
Combine the problem-solving capabilities of computer science with the most advanced techniques of the life sciences
Data Analytics
Understand complex systems by building computational models that are consistent with observed data
Fundamental Computation
Explore the science and the principles that underlie all of computing
Game Development
Contribute to entertainment, social interaction, education, and artistic expression
Security
Protect computers and the information they contain from major disruption or theft
Specializations
Biomedical Computing
Prepare for careers in medicine and medical research with courses such as Computer-Integrated Surgery, Computational Biology, Biochemistry and Physiology
Cognitive Science
Draw from the principles of psychology, philosophy, linguistics, neuroscience and computing to explore the science of the mind and thought
Computer Science
Develop skills for careers in the technology industry and beyond, from software developer to information architect to database administrator
Computing and the Creative Arts
Work in the entertainment industry, in multimedia design and in developing the next generation of software for the Arts
Computing, Mathematics and Analytics
Apply this potent combination in areas that require mathematical expertise, such as communications and security
Software Design
Become a software architect, developer and entrepreneur who drives the software revolution
Certificates
Certificates are mini-credentials that appear on your official transcript.
- Certificates offered by the School of Computing are meant for non-Computing students.
- They are not a degree. Students looking for a Computing degree must still enrol in either the Computing Major or a Specialization.
- They typically consist of about 5 courses.
- Two of these electives/option courses (i.e., 6.0 units) can be used towards your degree requirements.
- They are a great way to set you apart from your competition when it comes to applying for jobs.
A complete list of certificates offered by the University can be found in the Certificates section of the Academic Calendar.
Data Analytics
Play a positive role in shaping the way people make important decisions based on the presentation of data
Minor Programs
Knowledge of computing provides a distinct advantage in any career. The Minor programs in Arts and Science allow students to obtain a personalized degree. You can combine a Computing - Minor (Science) or a Computing - Minor (Arts) with a Major in any other subject in the Arts or the Sciences.