COURSE CURRICULUM

The first year of the Computer Science program at Acadia University is structured to give students a solid foundation in programming, mathematics, and problem-solving—core areas essential to success in computing. In the first semester, students begin with Computer Programming 1 (COMP 1113) and its associated lab (COMP 1110L), where they learn fundamental programming concepts, logic, and code structure through hands-on practice. This course is paired with Matrix Algebra (MATH 1323), which introduces linear algebra techniques used widely in computer science fields like graphics and data processing. Students also take Introductory Calculus 1 (MATH 1013), along with an optional lab (MATH 1010L); while required for some degree paths, this course is optional for certain Bachelor of Applied Computer Science (BACS) options. Two elective courses round out the semester, giving students the opportunity to explore interests in areas such as science, arts, business, or a second major. In the second semester, students move into Computer Programming 2 (COMP 1123) and the corresponding lab (COMP 1120L), which builds on their first-semester programming skills and introduces more advanced topics like object-oriented design and data structures. They also take Discrete Mathematics (MATH 1413), a vital course that covers topics like logic, sets, combinatorics, and algorithms—core elements of computer science theory. Introductory Calculus 2 (MATH 1023 and optional lab 1020L) continues the exploration of mathematical concepts, though again this course is optional for some applied streams. Two additional electives allow further academic customization and exploration. This combination of structured computer science learning and flexible electives prepares students for upper-year courses and allows them to begin shaping their degree according to their career interests, whether in software development, game design, data science, or interdisciplinary innovation.