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Computer Studies

  • The Grade 10 Computer Studies course Digital Technology and Innovations in the Changing World (ICD2O) was issued in 2023. This course replaces Introduction to Computer Studies, Grade 10, Open (ICS2O). As of September 2023, the ICS2O course should not be offered, and the associated course code expired at the end of the 2022–23 school year. 
  • The 2008 Computer Studies curriculum remains in effect for Grades 11-12. All secondary Computer Studies courses for Grades 11–12 will continue to be based on that document. All references to Grade 10 that appear in The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 10 to 12: Computer Studies, 2008 have been superseded by Digital Technology and Innovations in the Changing World, 2023.
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Courses

Grade Course Name Course Type Course Code Prerequisite
10 Digital Technology and Innovations in the Changing World Open ICD2O None
11 Introduction to Computer Science University ICS3U None
11 Introduction to Computer Programming College ICS3C None
12 Computer Science University ICS4U Grade 11 Introduction to Computer Science, University
12 Computer Programming College ICS4C Grade 11 Introduction to Computer Programming, College

Note: Each of the courses listed above is worth one credit.

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Prerequisite Chart

This chart maps out all the courses in the discipline and shows the links between courses and the possible prerequisites for them.

This is a graphic representation of all the computer studies courses from Grades 10 to 12. This graphic shows the links between courses and the possible prerequisites for them. It does not attempt to depict all possible movements from course to course.
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Course Descriptions

  • Digital Technology and Innovations in the Changing World, Grade 10, Open (ICD2O)
    This course helps students develop cutting-edge digital technology and computer programming skills that will support them in contributing to and leading the global economic, scientific and societal innovations of tomorrow. Students will learn and apply coding concepts and skills to build hands-on projects and investigate artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and other emerging digital technologies that connect to a wide range of fields and careers. Using critical thinking skills with a focus on digital citizenship, students will investigate the appropriate use and development of the digital technologies that they encounter every day, as well as the benefits and limitations of these technologies.
    • Prerequisite: None
  • Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11, University (ICS3U)
    This course introduces students to computer science. Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs. Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, and global career trends in computer-related fields. 
    • Prerequisite: None 
  • Introduction to Computer Programming, Grade 11, College (ICS3C)
    This course introduces students to computer programming concepts and practices. Students will write and test computer programs, using various problem-solving strategies. They will learn the fundamentals of program design and apply a software development life-cycle model to a software development project. Students will also learn about computer environments and systems, and explore environmental issues related to computers, safe computing practices, emerging technologies, and postsecondary opportunities in computer-related fields. 
    • Prerequisite: None
  • Computer Science, Grade 12, University (ICS4U)
    This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyse algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field. 
    • Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11, University Preparation
  • Computer Programming, Grade 12, College (ICS4C)
    This course further develops students’ computer programming skills. Students will learn objectoriented programming concepts, create object-oriented software solutions, and design graphical user interfaces. Student teams will plan and carry out a software development project using industry-standard programming tools and proper project management techniques. Students will also investigate ethical issues in computing and expand their understanding of environmental issues, emerging technologies, and computer-related careers. 
    • Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Programming, Grade 11, College Preparation