Computing Science

Master of Science in Computer Science degree

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc (CS)) is a 30-credit full-time graduate degree that provides advanced education and training in theoretical and applied computer science. The program combines core courses in research methods, design and analysis of algorithms, software design and architecture, and machine learning with electives in a range of contemporary and emerging areas of computer science. Students develop skills for addressing complex computing problems across diverse domains, with particular emphasis on applications in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, robotics, data science, software engineering, and agriculture.

The program offers two streams, Thesis and Project. The Thesis stream emphasizes independent research in computer science, while the Project stream focuses on applying advanced computing techniques to practical, real-world problems. Across both streams, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and ethical decision-making skills, preparing them for careers in industry, research, academia, and other computing-related fields.

Admission

All applicants must meet the Degree/diploma level English language proficiency requirement. For details on how this requirement may be met, see the English language proficiency requirement section of the calendar.

Entrance requirements

1. A 4-year bachelor's degree (or equivalent credential) in computer science or a closely related field from a recognized post-secondary institution.
2. A cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 (on a scale of 4.33) corresponding to last 60 credits of undergraduate degree.
3. Evidence of the applicant's ability to undertake advanced studies in computer science, supported by three references. References must be submitted electronically by suitable referees using the reference form available at ufv.ca/admissions/apply/additional-application-forms.
4. A personal statement of up to 1000 words demonstrating the applicant’s interest in computer science, motivation for pursuing graduate study, and future goals must be submitted. The statement should also reflect the applicant’s readiness for advanced academic work.

Indigenous applicants

1. Two seats are reserved for Indigenous applicants who meet the program’s entrance requirements and admission criteria. To be considered for these seats, applicants will self-identify as Indigenous on their application for admission.
2. Applicants may take an Indigenous approach in their personal statement, such as sharing experiences shaped by their relationships with family, community, or the land, or describing how they hope their studies may contribute to their community.
3. Applicants may include one or more referees from an Indigenous community, such as an Elder, Knowledge Keeper, or cultural mentor. At least one referee should be able to speak to the applicant’s academic or professional preparation. References must be submitted electronically by suitable referees using the reference form available at ufv.ca/admissions/apply/additional-application-forms.

When to apply

Applications are open on October 1 each year. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible, as admission decisions are made on a continuous basis for applicants with completed files who meet the entrance requirements and admission criteria. Complete applications submitted by the applicable deadlines will be considered for admission (see the program website for applicable deadlines) if space permits.

Note: Admission is subject to program capacity, and seats may be filled before the applicable deadline.

How to apply

1. Apply online at ufv.ca/admissions/apply.

   Additional documents required for a complete application:

   • Official transcripts (or interim transcripts) from all post-secondary institutions attended (excluding UFV) showing grade/course achievement as per entrance requirements. To be considered official, transcripts must be sent directly to UFV from the originating institution; see Official Transcript Guidelines for details.
   • A detailed resume, organized in reverse chronological order, beginning with the most recent experience. For each position, please include the position title, start and end dates, job duties, and indicate whether the role was full-time or part-time and paid or voluntary. Where applicable, the resume should also include research experience, publications, and other relevant contributions or achievements.
   • Maximum 1000 word personal statement demonstrating the applicant’s interest in computer science, motivation for pursuing graduate study, and future goals. The statement should also reflect the applicant’s readiness for advanced academic work. Applicants will also be required to indicate their preferred stream and the full name of a potential supervisor from the School of Computing on the form available at ufv.ca/admissions/apply/additional-application-forms.
   • Three reference letters submitted electronically by suitable referees using the reference form available at ufv.ca/admissions/apply/additional-application-forms.
2. Applicants will be advised of an admission decision and, if accepted, will be provided with registration information. A deposit is required prior to registration (see the Fees and Other Costs section) and will be applied toward tuition fees.

Basis for admission decision

Applicants who meet the entrance requirements and admission criteria will be considered for admission in the order in which their complete applications are submitted. An application is considered complete when all required information and documentation have been received and the application fee has been paid. Applications will normally be reviewed by the graduate program committee at least once per month. Two seats are reserved for Indigenous applicants who meet the program’s entrance requirements and admission criteria.

Fees and additional costs

See the Fees and Other Costs section. There will be additional costs for textbooks, as well as possible expenses associated with purchasing software.

Program duration

The Master of Science in Computer Science degree is a 30-credit program for both the Thesis and Project streams. However, program duration varies between the two streams:

• Project stream: 4 semesters (minimum 16 months)
• Thesis stream: 5 semesters (minimum 20 months)

COMP 713 (Project I), COMP 714 (Project II), and COMP 711 (Thesis I) are completed in one semester. COMP 712 (Thesis II) is completed over two semesters.

Location

Core courses are scheduled face-to-face in person. Elective courses are offered in a hybrid mix of in person and online classes. Theses and projects will be conducted in an independent study mode with regular meetings with the faculty supervisor, with seminars conducted either in person or virtually. Most in person lectures are delivered at the Abbotsford campus, with some lectures potentially delivered at the UFV Canada Education Park campus in Chilliwack.

Program outline

The MSc (CS) program consists of a Thesis stream and a Project stream.

Core courses

Thesis stream

Note: COMP 712 is a continuation of COMP 711. These courses must be taken in consecutive semesters. All core courses are prerequisites for COMP 711, and COMP 711 is a prerequisite for COMP 712. COMP 711 and COMP 712 are not open to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR).

Project stream

Note: COMP 714 is a continuation of COMP 713. These courses must be taken in consecutive semesters. All core courses are prerequisites for COMP 713, and COMP 713 is a prerequisite for COMP 714. COMP 713 and COMP 714 are not open to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR).

Electives

A subset of the following elective courses will be offered each year.

Program requirements and continuance in program

To remain in good standing status as a MSc (CS) student and to continue in the program, students must maintain an overall minimum program grade point average (PGPA) of 3.00. Credit towards the degree will not be available for any course in which the grade is less than a B-. COMP 711 and COMP 712 or COMP 713 and COMP 714 (depending on the chosen stream) must be completed with satisfactory evaluations and must receive a Pass (CR/Credit granted).

Transfer credit

Applicants who have been offered admission may request a formal evaluation of courses completed at other institutions or in other programs that have not been applied toward another credential. Approved courses may be considered for transfer credit subject to the program’s residency requirements. Partial transfer credit for a course is not permitted.

Course repetition

See section 3.8 of the General Regulations for Graduate Studies.

Readmission

Readmission into the program is not permitted, except in cases of extenuating personal circumstances approved by the School of Computing.

Residency

UFV's Credentials policy (64) requires that at least 75% of graduate program courses be taken at UFV. The Thesis or Project must be completed at UFV.

Graduation requirements

Candidates who qualify to receive a UFV graduate degree must be approved by Senate. See the Graduation webpage for more information and application deadlines.

Note: Students should also be familiar with the General Regulations for Graduate Studies.

Maximum length of time to complete program

Students admitted to the program are expected to complete the degree requirements within four semesters for the Project stream and five semesters for the Thesis stream. However, under extenuating circumstances and with approval from the School of Computing, these timelines may be extended up to a maximum of five years.

Course listings

For complete details on courses see the course descriptions section.