Faculty of Computer Science News

It’s been a year of reflection and planning the for the Master of Applied Computer Science (MACS) program – the graduate degree that prepares students for a dynamic career in the software industry.

As director of the program, Dr. Raghav Sampangi has been the driver behind many of the new – and re-focused old – initiatives, working hard to build a community where students and alumni feel connected and supported.

MACS students are now provided with their own dedicated team of academic advisors and graduate administrator – as well as an opportunity to receive in-program scholarship funding and recognition for their hard work in and out of the classroom.

Dr. Sampangi is particularly proud of the introduction of the new medals of excellence. “It’s a chance to thank everyone for contributing to creating an engaged community,” he says. “There is great strength in working together, and everything our students have been doing is contributing immensely towards creating a positive learning environment.”

Gold, silver and bronze medals valuing from 500 to 1000 dollars each were awarded this year to three students – Shilpa Singh, Grace Liu, and Robbie MacGregor - for their contributions.

“These students managed to work on their grad school academic requirements as well as motivated themselves and their peers to work together to create an engaging and a positive learning environment,” says Dr. Sampangi.

In addition, $2500 in-program academic scholarships will be awarded to some MACS students in the spring as a chance to recognize academic excellence.

Looking ahead, Dr. Sampangi says “Our students can expect to benefit from some sought-after certificate options in topics like cloud computing, and from elective courses that are created based on trends in industry (often through industry suggestions and feedback). We will look to industry and ensure our students are graduating with the confidence that they have what it takes to stand out and exceed in the job market.”