There are three patterns within the Master's program in the School of Computing: research-based, project-based and course-based. The majority of students enrol in the research-based option, which is typically completed in less than two years and is fully funded (i.e., students receive financial support and avoid accruing student debt). Project-based and course-based patterns are also available, which are typically completed in less time and are not funded.
Admission
The minimum requirements for admittance to the M.Sc. program are an undergraduate degree with a concentration in computer science, and a high upper-second class standing. We normally expect that students have taken courses covering the following topics:
- calculus
- linear algebra
- statistics
- logic and discrete mathematics
- advanced data structures
- computer systems
- automata theory
- algorithm design and analysis
- programming languages
- software engineering
Applicants should also have taken at least two advanced courses in applications areas such as artificial intelligence, database theory, or computer graphics.
Candidates with high academic standing in an undergraduate degree other than computer science, who have some computer science background, either academic or professional, may be admitted as graduate preparatory students. They are asked to complete up to one year of undergraduate courses to enhance their background and funding may not begin immediately.
Students are normally only admitted starting in the Fall term, but occasional exceptions are made for those in the research pattern.
Regular M.Sc. Students
Applicants with a strong undergraduate background in computer science are accepted as full M.Sc. students. Three patterns of the Master's degree are offered:
- research,
- project and
- course work.
Most students follow the research pattern and it is a trend the School encourages because:
- it may qualify the student for subsequent PhD studies if successfully completed; and
- in most cases, it is funded.
The project and the course work patterns will not qualify a student for a subsequent PhD or include funding.
In addition to their normal course work, all regular Master's students are expected to attend the School Seminar Series, a forum for researchers from the School and from abroad.
M.Sc. Supervision Policy
Once an application is submitted to the School students are encouraged to contact potential supervisors as soon as possible. Please note that supervision may be withdrawn where progress has not been satisfactory at the end of two terms.
Course Regulations
Students are required to obtain a B- (effective May 2011) in all of their primary courses, i.e., in courses which are required for their program. Failure to obtain a B- (effective May 2011) in more than one course normally results in the student being required to withdraw. If a student fails in only one course, the course may be repeated or another course may be substituted if the student's progress is otherwise satisfactory. This will normally mean that the student should have obtained more than a minimal pass in the other primary courses.
Students are required to complete their course work before the end of the term in which the course was taken. Allowances are made for exceptional circumstances only.
Graduate students should familiarize themselves with the contents of the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs Calendar. Some of the information on this website is adapted from the current Calendar but is not intended as a replacement for it.