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 |
Results in Bachelor of Computing | Yes | Yes | Yes, except for Computing and the Creative Arts |
Computing Major With Option
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Artificial Intelligence
Learn how the human mind works and develop computational algorithms to create machine intelligence
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Biomedical Computation
Combine the problem-solving capabilities of computer science with the most advanced techniques of the life sciences
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Data Analytics
Understand complex systems by building computational models that are consistent with observed data
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Fundamental Computation
Explore the science and the principles that underlie all of computing
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Game Development
Contribute to entertainment, social interaction, education, and artistic expression
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Security
Protect computers and the information they contain from major disruption or theft
Specializations
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Biomedical Computing
Prepare for careers in medicine and medical research with courses such as Computer-Integrated Surgery, Computational Biology, Biochemistry and Physiology
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Cognitive Science
Draw from the principles of psychology, philosophy, linguistics, neuroscience and computing to explore the science of the mind and thought
![](http://www.cs.queensu.ca/images/PixelGraphics/small/CSCI.jpg)
Computer Science
Develop skills for careers in the technology industry and beyond, from software developer to information architect to database administrator
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Computing and the Creative Arts
Work in the entertainment industry, in multimedia design and in developing the next generation of software for the Arts
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Computing, Mathematics and Analytics
Apply this potent combination in areas that require mathematical expertise, such as communications and security
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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.
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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.