Computer Science Department

Welcome to Computer Science at StFX, where students undertake studies that offer a well-rounded education in the science of computing. Computer Science (CS) spans a broad range from theory to practice to cutting- edge inventions. CS makes graduates aware of new technologies and new ideas and is a foundation for many different computing careers. There are many sub areas (e.g., artificial intelligence, databases, game development, graphics, high-performance computing, networking, programming languages, robotics, security, etc.) within the broader discipline of CS, with new areas being created as the discipline evolves. 

Computer Science jobs are among the highest paid and have the highest job satisfaction. CS is very often associated with innovation, and developments in computing tend to drive it. Most analysts predict that the number of people trained for jobs in the computing industry will fall far short of the employment demand. As a result of this shortfall, job prospects for graduates in CS are expected to remain excellent. View our Computer Science Postcard.

Undergraduate students can pursue a Major, Advanced Major or Honours degree in CS. Our undergraduate curriculum aligns with the current guidelines of the ACM and IEEE, which are major international professional organizations that provide curriculum guidelines for computing programs. Our curriculum prepares students by giving them both the underlying knowledge (theoretical foundations of computing), which is essential to adapt to rapidly evolving technology, and knowledge on new areas and technologies. Our core courses provide a strong computing foundation and our elective courses keep up with emerging areas and the latest industry demands. Through the Computer Science Co-op program students have the opportunity to complete 12-16 months of work experience. 

Graduate students can pursue both a research-based Master's of Science (MSc) in Computer Science  and a course-based Master's of Applied Computer Science (MACS). We also offer a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Artificial Intelligence. MACS students have the opportunity to complete 8 months of work experience through the MACS Co-op program. 

There are many opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate student involvement in faculty research projects. Our department provides a research-intensive environment where students collaborate with faculty and work alongside undergraduate and graduate students. There are many funding opportunities, scholarships, summer internships. The very generous Dr. H. Stanley and Doreen Alley Heaps Computing Science endowment is an important source of funding for CS students at StFX. 

Our faculty members are very active in research. Together, they provide an education in Computer Science that rivals all other Canadian universities—one that produces high-achievers who are well-suited to graduate studies and industry.  

Please take a look at our website and reach out to us if you have any questions. 

Iker Gondra
Chair and Professor