Unique Pathways & Off-campus Education
Dual Credit - Introduction to Computer Science
The University of Calgary course Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies (CPSC217) introduces problem solving, analysis and design of small-scale computational systems. Solutions will be implemented using the procedural programming language of Python. Python is a language popular across both STEM and not-STEM areas. Participation is encouraged for students with interests both in and beyond Computer Science.
See an example of the regular semester
course outline for further information but note that the summer course runs slightly differently and will be discussed at the beginning of the course.
Please note that this is an introductory course for non-computer science majors. Students who have completed Computer Science to the 30 level are not recommended to take this course.
Program Benefits
- Get a jump start on your post-secondary education while still in high school
- Build confidence through developing learning strategies and skills that support your learning transitions
- Learn about on-going opportunities and experience post-secondary learning
- Taught by U of C instructors with experience in student transitions to post-secondary educational experiences and environments
5 Credits, 30 level CTS
and
3 post-secondary credits
Student Eligibility
Open to CBE high school students who:
- Are in grades 11 or 12 as of June (Graduating students are eligible)
- Are a competent computer user, but may or may not have prior programming skills
- Have a strong interest in learning programming and are committed to this rigorous, condensed course format
- Are able to arrange their own transportation to and from the University of Calgary for the duration of the course
- Have
completed the following pre-requisite course:
- Math 20-1 and be able to problem solve, think logically, and enjoy working with problems
- Have access to a laptop or desktop (no Chromebooks or iPads) at home for their independent homework. Windows, Mac, or Linux operation system required.
- Free software will need to be downloaded
Program Delivery and Location
Delivery
This course is offered in person.
Location
In-person at University of Calgary - 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4
Workload
Students can expect a total of 15 synchronous hours per week (in person) and approximately 15 hours of additional independent work per week for a total of 30 hours per week.
Timetable Requirements & Recommendations
Students must have the entire month of July to dedicate to this full-time program. Students can not be enrolled in any other summer school program (work experience is a potential exception) and must not have any travel plans in July in order to accommodate this program.
Program Dates
- Summer | Entire month of July
- Program Times
- Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Lectures will run Mon/Wed/Fri with the UCalgary instructor
- Labs will run Tues/Thurs with the CBE supervising teacher
Considerations
- Students must have space in their summer schedule to accommodate the program delivery, location, and dates. Summer courses move at a fast pace and should be considered a full time job.
- Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the program location. Support may be available – reach out to your Off-campus Coordinator or guidance counsellor or email uniquepathways@cbe.ab.ca if you require support.
- Students are expected to attend every day and meet all safety and behavioural expectations of the program partner site. Failure to do so may result in removal from the program.
- Students must meet all course assignment, quiz and test deadlines.
- Students must submit a personal learning schedule with their application, which outlines when they will work on their Dual Credit course work outside of class time.
- Students will be expected to communicate with both their CBE supervising teacher and course instructor regularly.
How to Apply
- Read through the course(s) and/or program(s) of interest.
- Review program choice with your school Off-campus Coordinator and/or Guidance Counsellor for program readiness and timetabling concerns.
- You are highly encouraged to attend the
Unique Pathways Information Night to ask questions of our program partners and determine if the program is a good fit for you. Connect with your Off-campus Coordinator or Guidance counsellor if you are unable to attend.
- Download and fill in the Dual Credit Application Form Package when available.
- Refer to the application checklist and ensure all items are complete.
- Book an appointment with your Off-campus Coordinator and/or Guidance Counselor before the deadline to complete your application, including signatures from all parties.
- The school will submit the application to Unique Pathways on your behalf.
Career Map
Program Partner
Application Deadline
Applications for Summer and Fall 2025 programs are now closed. Check back again in the spring for 2026.
Information Sessions
Past Information Session information and recordings can be found on our
Information Sessions page.
