Degree Requirements
Master of Science (MSc)
The MSc program in Computer Science has three main options, all leading to the same degree.
| Program Option |
Requirements | Expected Completion |
|---|---|---|
| Thesis Option The thesis option is suited to students who want to be trained to conduct research in close association with a program faculty member. Heavy emphasis is placed on the research thesis, which usually requires at least three terms to complete. |
|
Two years |
| Course only Option The course option is suited to students who wish to deepen their knowledge on a broad range of advanced computer science topics. |
|
Two years |
| Major Research Paper (MRP) Option This program is suited to students who want both training in research and a broader knowledge of advanced topics in computer science. Students work closely with a program faculty member to complete their major research paper. |
No Direct Entry: Students may request entry to the MRP option after completing their first semester of the Course Only option. |
Two years |
Residency Requirements to Graduate from the MSc Program:
Full-Time Status: All MSc students must enroll as full-time students for a minimum of three academic terms (one year). The degree requirements must be completed within nine academic terms (three years).
Program Extension: Students may be granted additional time to complete the program, with the appropriate approvals:
- One additional term: Program Director
- More than one term: Vice-Provost and Dean of YSGPS
Continuous Registration: Unless granted Inactive Status, graduate students must maintain continuous registration every semester until all program requirements have been met.
Grade Requirements:
Minimum Course Grade: B- (70%). Students must repeat a course, or substitute with an alternate course, if the final grade is less than B- (70%).
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Requirements to Graduate from the PhD Program:
- When granted admission, applicants become doctoral students. On the successful completion of a written and an oral candidacy examination, doctoral students become doctoral candidates.
- Successful completion and defence of an original research thesis
- Successful completion of three one-term elective courses
- Successful completion of a Research Methods course
- Regular attendance in sanctioned seminars
- Two presentations of public seminars on thesis research
Residency Requirements:
All PhD students must enroll as full-time students for a minimum of two years. The program must be completed within six years from initial registration.
Program Extension: Students may be granted additional time to complete the program, with the appropriate approvals:
- One additional term: Program Director
- More than one term: Vice-Provost and Dean of YSGPS
Continuous Registration: Unless granted Inactive Status, doctoral students must maintain continuous registration every semester until all program requirements have been met.
Grade Requirements:
Minimum Course Grade: B (73%). Students must repeat a course, or substitute with an alternate course, if the final grade is less than B (73%).