Computer Science, MSc

General information

The Master of Science (MSc) in Computer Science is a broad-based program with a strong research focus that covers concepts from engineering, science and business with the aim of producing high-quality software professionals.

There are four fields in the MSc program:

• Digital Media
• Information Science
• Networks and IT Security
• Software Design

The aim of the MSc program in Computer Science is to produce a new breed of computer science graduates that have a broad background in information technology along with project management and people skills. The graduates of this program will not only have strong technical expertise in their particular field but will also have the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams. They are able to tackle problems that require both technical and non-technical solutions.

The MSc program differs from most existing computer science programs in its concentration on applied research and the development of professional skills. The intention is that most of the graduates from these programs will build careers in industrial research and software development. The program focuses on the skills required for successful careers in industry, reflecting the university’s goals to be market-oriented and to provide high-quality professional education.

The program gives students the opportunity to work in teams and develop leadership skills, and provides ample opportunity to develop oral and written communication skills. Students are strongly encouraged to present their research results at scientific conferences.

A current list of graduate faculty is available on the Faculty of Science’s website.

Admission requirements

In addition to the general admission requirements for graduate studies , MSc in Computer Science applicants must hold a four-year honours undergraduate degree in computer science, computer engineering, information technology or software engineering from a Canadian university, or its equivalent from a recognized institution.

Applicants without the background above may be offered admission with additional requirements which will enable them to obtain the required background through additional courses or some other mechanism.

Part-time studies

The MSc program is intended to be full-time, but a small number of part-time students are admitted, increasing its accessibility. The typical part-time student is already employed in the information technology industry and brings a level of practical experience to the program. Part-time students are encouraged to attend seminars on campus and to spend at least two weeks per year on campus so they have an opportunity to interact with other students outside of the classroom.

Degree requirements

All MSc students are required to successfully complete five graduate courses plus a thesis. In the first year of their program, all students must take CSCI 5010G - Survey of Computer Science Research Topics and Methods  and CSCI 5020G - Collaborative Design and Research . The remaining three courses are selected from the list of approved courses for the program with the restriction that a student can take at most two courses from the same field. The course selection is made in consultation with the student’s research supervisor and must be approved by the graduate program director. Before defending their thesis, students must present the results of their research in a seminar that is open to the public. The MSc degree requirements are summarized below.

• CSCI 5010G - Survey of Computer Science Research Topics and Methods
• CSCI 5020G - Collaborative Design and Research
• Three elective courses
• CSCI 5001G - MSc Thesis

Course listing