Workshop overview
Hosted at the University of Waterloo, SPARCS is a unique workshop that aims to spark interest in the field of computer science through lectures, labs, and hands-on activities covering diverse topics like cryptography, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and much more.
The SPARCS workshop welcomes Grade 9 and 10 students who identify as a girl. We also welcome gender minorities who feel comfortable in a space that centres the experiences of women.
Participants will have the opportunity to interact with university faculty, undergraduate and graduate students, and other expert educators to gain a more comprehensive understanding of computer science.
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Workshop details
The SPARCS workshop welcomes anyone who identifies as a girl. We also welcome gender minorities who feel comfortable in a space that centres the experiences of women.
Applicants must be in Grade 9 or 10 and currently attending a Canadian high school or middle school. In addition, applicants should have an interest in computer science combined with limited prior exposure to the subject.
*Why this audience?
Mathematics and computer science are powerful tools, and diversity among mathematicians and computer scientists increases the potential for positive impact. One of the CEMC’s primary objectives is to promote greater gender diversity in mathematics and computer science.
See recent statistics on representation of women and gender minorities at the University of Waterloo in Math and Computer Science.
- Participants stay on campus at the University of Waterloo for one week, during which time they participate in lectures, labs, and hands-on activities that introduce them to various facets of computer science.
- Participants will also have opportunities to connect with like-minded students from across the country and enjoy social time with each other and esteemed faculty members and University of Waterloo students.
Dates: Sunday, May 3 to Friday, May 8, 2026
Location: University of Waterloo
Participants stay on campus in student residences and are chaperoned by university students, who will also stay on-site. Most meals will take place at the residence eatery, which offers a range of dietary options, including vegetarian, vegan and halal meals. We do our best to accommodate all dietary needs.
- Interested students can fill out the SPARCS online application form once applications open in mid-September.
- As part of the application, a math or science teacher must complete a short reference form on behalf of the student applying.
- Based on these submissions, the CEMC will contact applicants about their selection status in late February. If accepted, applicants will then be required to fill out a registration form with more information about logistics and pay the workshop registration fee.
There is no fee to apply for the workshop. There is a $250 registration fee to be paid after selected applicants have received their confirmation package. This fee includes any applicable taxes, meals, travel expenses (if applicable), and accommodation. Financial support to cover the cost of the registration fee may be arranged for students in need. For more information about financial support, please contact Fiona Dunbar.
For any inquiries or questions, please feel free to contact us at cemc.events@uwaterloo.ca
