Where to go - UBC or UTSC?

[aiel17]

Hey folks,

I need advice on which university is better for computer science programs: UBC or University of Toronto - Scarborough?

I have applied with UBC for Bachelor of Computer Science Integrated Computer Science (BCS-ICS) program and University of Toronto - Scarborough for a BBA Management and Information Technology program. I have previously completed a Bachelor of Commerce major in Accounting outside Canada. So here's the deal:

University of Toronto - Scarborough (UTSC) gave me an offer for the MIT degree provided I do not take any other courses or else, they would withdraw their offer.

UBC has two phases in their application process: 1) interview and assessment from the Computer Science department and 2) evaluation from the Undergraduate Admissions department. I have completed/passed the first phase. However, an offer cannot be made by UBC because I lack the first year English pre-requisite. I have until end of August to complete this. I'm willing to take the English pre-requisite and inquired with UTSC if I can take it, but they said they're not making an exception.

Here are some differences I noted:
1) With UBC, I can complete the BCS ICS program within 2 yrs plus they have a co-op program which I can take for 8 months. To complete UTSC's program, it would take me 2-3 yrs. I also inquired if I can switch to the co-op program instead of the non co-op program. Unfortunately, because I have more than one year worth of transfer credits, I cannot take the co-op option. (Should I take the program with the co-op option? Would it be an advantage if I take a course with a co-op program?)
2) Residence fees with UTSC from what I can remember are higher than UBC. How about the cost of living, is it just the same for both cities?
3) Ranking --- from the three rankings of all universities in the world: UT was ahead of UBC twice (gap is about 5-10 ranks) and the last one I've seen shows UBC ahead of UT by 1 rank.
4) Environment --- which one has a better environment for students? I was under the impression UBC is better. My comment is just general --- I've visited both cities and what I have seen is that Vancouver is a little laid back than Toronto/Scarborough is. Toronto/Scarborough is a very fast-paced city.
5) Which has a better computer science program? UBC or UTSC (I still don't know the answer to this question.)


I would appreciate if you can give me some inputs regarding advantages/disadvantages of these two universities. I'm hoping to make a decision by end of the week to give me ample time to take the English pre-requisite (if I decide to go to UBC). I'm really torn where to go so I would appreciate if you can provide me more information/

Thanks a lot!

[Tony]

aiel17 @ Thu Jun 03, 2010 6:57 am wrote:

which university is better for computer science programs

Between the two majors, perhaps the one with "Computer Science" in its title is a better fit.

Quote:

Would it be an advantage if I take a course with a co-op program?

Typically a co-op program is an excellent way to get yourself started with relevant work experience.

Quote:

from the three rankings of all universities in the world: UT was ahead of UBC

was it UT:SG or UT:SC?