Applied Computer Science (BACS)
Bridge the gap between technology and business by combining hands-on software development with project management, communication, and leadership skills to solve real-world organizational challenges.Ìý
Why choose this program?
Organizations need leaders who can build and apply technology to solve real-world challenges. Applied Computer Science combines hands-on software development with the project management, leadership, and communication skills needed to collaborate with teams, clients, and stakeholders in the modern digital workplace.
The Bachelor of Applied Computer Science (BACS) prepares you to become a technology leader who can connect innovation with real-world impact. Combining computer science foundations with management, hands-on coding, and software implementation, this program develops the technical, communication, and leadership skills employers need in today’s digital economy.
Through hands-on experience, industry connections, and opportunities to build and apply software solutions to organizational settings, you’ll graduate ready to help businesses, government, and communities solve challenges through technology. Designed for students who want to lead, innovate, and drive change, this degree opens pathways across industries where technology and strategy come together.Ìý
Careers
Technology impacts every industry, requiring professionals who bridge innovation and implementation. HÂþ»'s Bachelor of Applied Computer Science equips graduates to develop hands-on technical solutions, lead digital transformation, and guide technology initiatives that help businesses and communities thrive.
BACS graduates enjoy high employability. Technology impacts every industry creating demand for professionals who connect technology with business strategy. Across software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis, our alumni advance in their careers from entry-level positions into six-figure leadership roles.Ìý
What you will learn
Develop core programming and software development skills, and master technical problem-solving through a unique multi-year sequence of project courses. Blending technical execution with strategic leadership, project management and innovation, this program prepares you to create real-world solutions and drive digital change across industries and communities.Ìý
Sample courses
- Introduction to ProgrammingÌý
- Introduction to Web Design and DevelopmentÌý
- Communicating with AIÌý
- Interdisciplinary Management IÌý
- Data Structures and AlgorithmsÌý
- Software DevelopmentÌý
- Information SecurityÌý
- Micro-Organizational BehaviourÌý
- Introduction to Cloud ComputingÌý
- Foundations of Data Science using RÌý
- Law for Computer ScientistsÌý
- Designing User InterfacesÌý
- Cyber Security and DefenseÌý
- Information RetrievalÌý
- Mobile ComputingÌý
- Advanced Project
Real world experience
BACS guarantees real-world experience. Through our unique Introductory, Intermediate, and Advanced Project courses, you build a professional portfolio solving real problems for community partners. Working in teams, you advance from junior developer to project manager, mastering the technical, leadership, and collaboration skills required for the modern workplace. Accelerate your path with optional paid co-op and free access to hackathons, mentorship, and upskilling through .Ìý
Co-op
You’ll have the opportunity to gain work experience through co-op placements with companies like Microsoft, CGI, IBM, the Government of Canada and Ubisoft and earn up to $10,000 per work term. 
Customize your degree
Shape your degree around your interests and career goals by choosing from a range of flexible options, including co-op work terms, certificates in emerging technology areas, and minors from across HÂþ».ÌýÌý
Combine your passion for technology with another field by adding a minor to your degree. BACS students can choose from dozens of subjects across arts, science, business, and sustainability, helping you build a unique, multidisciplinary skill set that stands out to employers.
- Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent SystemsÌý
- Communication Technologies and Cyber SecurityÌý
- Data ScienceÌý
- Graphics, Gaming, and MediaÌý
- User Experience Design and EvaluationÌý
- Web & Mobile DevelopmentÌý
Develop the technical expertise, leadership skills, and practical experience to solve complex challenges, create meaningful solutions, and shape our digital future. The Bachelor of Applied Computer Science prepares you to lead innovation.  
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 HÂþ» programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
To secure your place in the Bachelor of Applied Computer Science, you must meet our specific program thresholds:Ìý
- Overall Average: Minimum final average of 70% across your courses.Ìý
- Academic Math: Minimum final grade of 65%.Ìý
- Grade 12 English: Minimum final grade of 65%.Ìý
- University-Prep Courses: 3 additional acceptable university-prep courses with a minimum final grade of 60%.Ìý
Double-check your transcript against these exact grade requirements before applying to ensure your application moves forward smoothly.Ìý
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.
