Computing Science (Associate Degree) at Douglas College - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Program overview

Take the first step toward exciting careers in cloud computing, software development, artificial intelligence, game design/development, information science, and more with the Associate of Science Degree in Computing Science. This program offers a comprehensive introduction to programming languages such as Python and C++, along with essential knowledge in software engineering, data structures, algorithms, computer graphics, and user interface design. Completing this degree not only equips you with the skills needed for various tech careers but also prepares you for potential transfer to a four-year university program.

Program structure

The Computing Science (Associate Degree) program is designed to be completed in two years. Here are some key features of the program structure:

60 university transfer credits required for graduation.
General College Admission Requirements must be met for enrollment.
Students can opt for a Co-operative Education Program, which alternates semesters of study with paid, full-time work experience in the field.
Courses are structured to ensure that students can transfer credits to a four-year university program.
Students must complete a minimum of 30 credits at Douglas College.

To graduate, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and complete all required courses, including specific credits in Computing Science and other electives.

Featured Experiences

Co-operative Education Program: This optional program allows students to gain paid, full-time work experience while studying, enhancing their resumes and providing valuable employer references.
Hands-on Learning: Students will engage in practical projects that apply their programming skills in real-world scenarios.
Industry Recognition: The program is recognized by Epic Games as an Unreal Academic Partner, ensuring high-quality educational opportunities in game development.
Access to Experienced Faculty: Students learn from faculty with extensive industry experience, providing insights into current trends and technologies.

Career Options

Graduates of the Computing Science (Associate Degree) program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Computer Network Technician: Responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks, ensuring connectivity and security.
Computer Support Specialist: Provides technical support and troubleshooting assistance to users experiencing hardware or software issues.
Computer Systems Analyst: Analyzes and improves computer systems to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in organizations.
Game/App Developer: Designs and develops video games or mobile applications, focusing on user experience and functionality.
Web Developer: Creates and maintains websites, ensuring they are user-friendly, visually appealing, and functional.
IT Support Assistant: Offers support to IT departments, assisting with various technical tasks and user inquiries.
Software Designer/Developer: Engages in the design and development of software applications, focusing on coding and testing.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Douglas College official website

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Computing Science (Associate Degree) program at Douglas College, applicants must meet the following academic requirements:

General College Admission Requirements include:

Successful completion of 60 university transfer (UT) credits as listed in the program guidelines.
A minimum program GPA of 2.0.
All courses must be university transferable, meaning they transfer to one of the research universities in British Columbia (SFU, UBC, UNBC, or UVic) as per the BC Transfer Guide.
50% (30 credits) of all coursework must be completed at Douglas College.
Time limit to complete program graduation requirements is seven (7) years.

For international students, specific requirements include:

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Additionally, to complete the Associate of Science Degree with a Specialization in Computing Science, students must fulfill the following course requirements:

18 or more credits in Computing Science, with nine of those being second-year courses.
6 credits (2 courses) in first-year English.
6 credits (2 courses) in Math, including 3 credits of Calculus.
18 credits (6 courses) in first-year Science electives, including at least 3 credits in a laboratory science.
18 credits (6 courses) in second-year Science electives across two or more subject areas.
6 credits (2 courses) in Arts electives (other than English).
6 credits (2 courses) of other University Transfer electives.

For any clarification and support regarding these requirements, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

All applicants to the College must demonstrate proficiency in English by providing proof of ONE of the following:

High school grades:
- English Studies 12 - minimum final grade "C", or equivalent
- English First Peoples 12 - minimum final grade "C"
- English 12 - minimum final grade "C"
- Communications 12 - minimum final grade "B"
- AP English Language or Literature - minimum grade 3
- IB English Language (SL or HL) - minimum grade 3
Testing options:
- Douglas College English Assessment
- TOEFL iBT (in-person or online) - minimum score 83
- TOEFL Essentials - minimum score of 9 (no score below 8 on any individual section)
- IELTS - minimum overall band test score 6.5 (academic module only)
- EIKEN Practical English - minimum placement of Grade 1
- CAEL - minimum overall and essay score of 60 (computer or paper based)
- Cambridge English CAE - minimum score 75 or "B"
- Cambridge English CPE - minimum score 60 or "C"
- Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 8 in each of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing
- Duolingo English Test - Minimum overall score of 110. Official test scores must be sent directly to Douglas College.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic - minimum score 56
Other options:
- Currently enrolled or successful completion in a college-level English, Written Communications, Creative Writing or Literature course from an English speaking post-secondary institution. Note: If the course has been completed, a minimum grade of “P” is required.
- Enrolment in the BC Adult Graduation program including English 12 with a minimum grade of C (provincial exam is optional)
- Undergraduate Bachelor degree (or higher-level credential) from an English-speaking post-secondary institution
- GED (Fourth Test Series) Language Arts Writing & Reading - minimum score 450
- ABE English course equivalent to ENGU 0355

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2026-05-04

Program overview