Master's program

This is a full-time program and typically takes 2 years to complete.

Students who have an undergraduate degree in computer science and a GPA of A- or better, may be accepted into the MCS program.  

Learn more about admission requirements / how to apply.

To complete the MCS program, the following is required:

• Four graduate courses in computer science and a successfully defended thesis in front of a three-member examining committee.
• With the approval of the Graduate Committee Chair, a maximum of one non-CSCI graduate course may be included in the student's program course requirements. No undergraduate course should be approved as a graduate course requirement. 
• One CSCI 6901 directed studies course may be allowed as a graduate course requirement. 
• Up to three additional undergraduate courses may be required to fill particular gaps in the student's background. These courses are expected to be taken in the first two terms in the program.
  
• Other fourth-year undergraduate courses that the student may wish to take for building up background in the thesis area are in addition to the 4 graduate courses.
• Sufficient seminar attendance done to receive a passing grade in CSCI 6998 (attend the lesser of 6 or 75% of seminars denoted for 6999 in the term for each of 3 terms). Students who began the program before September 1, 2024 complete CSCI 6999 rather than CSCI 6998.

MCS students must complete any four CSCI6xxx classes.

Before you begin, you'll need to find a supervisor who is able to support your research interests and has the capacity to take on the added responsibility. This individual will be an important part of your supervisory committee. Start by checking out our faculty profiles and faculty research interests, then get in touch with them directly.

When designing your thesis, you should keep in mind that to be successful, it must describe an original contribution to knowledge made while you attended Dalhousie University. It also needs to be valuable enough to merit publication in a reputable scientific journal with a system of external review.  

Research for the thesis is conducted under the guidance of your research supervisor, in whose laboratory you work. A Thesis Supervisory Committee for each student provides additional expertise and advice to facilitate the research and the preparation of the thesis.

Helpful resources.

June 1 (for September start) is the deadline for Canadian applicants.

April 1 (for September start) is the deadline for non-Canadian applicants. If you think your visa processing will take some time, please apply by March 1.

Learn more about how to apply and what else is required.

If you have more questions, contact:

cs.admissions@dal.ca