Combined Major in Business and Computer Science

Application Process 

1. All new and returning BCom students will be notified in May about the BUCS application which will open on May 1.
2. Complete the BUCS application online before the June 3 deadline. The application includes a short essay question on the subject of, "What specifically attracted you to the BUCS program and how will the program contribute to your career goals?"
3. The UGO will notify applicants of decisions by the second week of June. Successful applicants will be automatically switched to the BUCS program and receive a registration guide soon after. This guide will help new BUCS students navigate the registration process.

If you need to withdraw or cancel your application, please write to bcomquestions@sauder.ubc.ca.  If you would like to submit an appeal for a late application, please submit your appeal to bcomquestions@sauder.ubc.ca to the attention of Jamie Tooze.

Admission Requirements

You must be a current or newly admitted student to the BCom program. Students from any year of the BCom program can apply but, if you are not newly admitted from high school, preference will be given to students who have successfully completed or earned transfer credit for the following courses, CPSC 110, 121, 210, & MATH 101/105 at the time of application.

Admissions to the BUCS program is determined by three factors:

1. Average - For newly admitted students, admissions is based on your admissions average to Commerce.  For returning students, admissions is based on the applicant’s most recent winter sessional average. 
2. Short essay - Applicants must also submit a short essay that will be scored on their reason for wanting to switch to BUCS.
3. Required computer science courses - Preference will be given to students who have completed the required courses.

For more information please contact the Undergraduate Office and be sure to review the program requirements listed on this page.

How is the BUCS program different from the BCom general program?

BUCS students complete the same core Commerce requirements as all BCom students; however, the BUCS program also includes twelve Computer Science course requirements instead of general electives and a specialization in an area of business (for example, Accounting, Real Estate, etc.). The BUCS program requires a total of 128-129 credits; the general program requires 122 credits.

Please note there was a change in the program requirements starting in Winter 2023. Click here to view BUCS program requirements

How is admissions to the BUCS program decided?

Admission for direct entry applicants (high school) and post-secondary transfer applicants is primarily based on an applicant’s admission average. Special consideration is given to students that have completed courses required for the BUCS program in the past. An application essay is also required to ensure applicants have researched the program and have a sincere desire to major in business and computer science. Applicants are encouraged to review our website, explore the courses offered, and read the blogs of past and present students and explore Linked In to discover what the program offers.

Is it possible to also complete a specialization like Finance or Marketing?

Technically yes, but BUCS is an intensive program that requires extensive planning. To complete another specialization, you would be required to take an additional 12-15 credits of coursework in addition to the 128-129 credits already required for BUCS. Additionally, there are no guarantees that you would be able to register in all of the required courses for a particular specialization. In essence, BUCS would be your primary specialization and completing a second specialization, also known as a “double option”, would mean extending your degree.

Is it possible to participate in Co-op?

Yes! You can apply to the Co-op Program through UBC Sauder AND/OR the Department of Computer Science. BUCS students are fortunate to have the opportunity to apply and participate in both programs, alternating work terms between Comp Sci Co-op and BCom Co-op. The Co-op coaches in the Business Career Centre (BCC) can help you navigate this process.

Is it possible to go on exchange?

Yes! Keep in mind that you may need to attend additional terms at UBC to finish your degree because there are more core requirements and fewer electives in BUCS. Your success on an exchange will depend on where you choose to study and how your courses will transfer back to UBC. Planning early is key!

What are possible career paths for students who complete BUCS?

Students who complete BUCS have gone on to careers as product directors, IT managers, user-experience designers, and data analysts, to name a few. Because BUCS includes a solid foundation in business, your potential career paths are not restricted to the technology sector alone.

Where do I apply for the BUCS Program?

Complete the online application by June 3, 2024, and soon after we’ll let you know if you’ve been selected – at which time you will receive additional program information to prepare for your registration date. Applications received after June 3 will be considered on a rolling basis.