Software Development (BCS)
Basic coding is yesterday. Master the system architecture that keeps global platforms from crashing.
Why choose this program?
Design, build, and maintain the software that powers today’s digital world. Develop the programming, problem-solving and collaboration skills needed to create innovative applications for business, communities, and emerging technologies.
Software powers nearly every industry, creating strong demand for developers who can build reliable, scalable solutions. Through project-based learning and collaboration, you’ll strengthen then technical and professional skills employers value most, including software engineering, teamwork and problem solving. Graduates are prepared to contribute across industries or pursue entrepreneurial ventures, equipped with the adaptability needed for a rapidly changing technology landscape.
Careers
Software developers build the tools that power modern life. From startups to global organizations, graduates are prepared to create innovative applications, solve real-world problems and contribute to technology-driven teams across every sector.
Software drives innovation across every industry, creating ongoing demand for professionals who can design, build and improve digital solutions. You'll graduate having developed versatile skills that open doors to careers in organizations of every size.
What you will learn
Build the skills to design, develop and maintain the software that powers today’s digital world. You’ll learn programming, software engineering, system design, testing and collaborative development practices while gaining the technical foundation to create reliable solutions for real-world challenges.
Sample courses
- Communicating with AI
- Introduction to Computer Systems
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Software Development
- Foundations of Artificial Intelligence
- Introduction to Interface Design & User Experience
- Introduction to Software Engineering
- Introduction to Software Processes
- Building Interactive Systems
- Advanced Software Engineering
- Machine Learning for Software Engineering
Co-op
Turn your knowledge into experience through paid co-op work terms, where you can complete 1–3 four-month placements with industry partners during your degree. Through ShiftKey Labs, you’ll also access workshops, mentorship, entrepreneurial resources and opportunities to create personal projects—helping you build your skills, network, and confidence as a future technology leader.
Customize your degree
Your major is one way to personalize your Bachelor of Computer Science degree.
You can further customize your studies by combining two Computer Science majors, adding a minor from another discipline, or exploring subjects across Dalhousie through open electives.
Our academic advisors are here to help you plan a degree path that aligns with your interests, goals and career aspirations.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
- Grade 12 Academic Math (Pre-calculus math recommended)
- Grade 12 Academic English
- 3 additional acceptable university-prep courses
Minimum final grades
- Pre-calculus math: 65%
- Math: 70%
- English: 65%
- Other subjects: 60%
- Overall average: 70%
Need Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, or another admission requirement? Our online, self-paced UPrep courses can help you earn the prerequisite you need, upgrade your marks, and build confidence before starting your degree at Dal. Explore UPrep courses.
