Faculty of Computer Science - Graduate Programs

Faculty of Computer Science

Graduate programs in computer science

cs.dal.ca/graduate

Dalhousie’s Faculty of Computer Science is the premier academic research institution in Information Technology in Atlantic Canada. Since our founding in 1997, our faculty have been working in major areas of computer science research, cutting across many industries and encompassing nearly all human endeavours. From oceans to healthcare, information communications technology to aerospace, our students and professors are making an impact.

Our flexible and multidisciplinary computer science graduate program options allow you to combine your studies in unique ways that meet your academic and personal interests, as well as your future career goals – whether you are interested in research or building your career in industry. We offer two research-focused degree programs (Master of Computer Science and PhD in Computer Science), three interdisciplinary programs (Master of Digital Innovation) as well as an applied program offering three-degree stream options (Master of Applied Computer Science). No matter where you are in your graduate education, the Faculty of Computer Science has a program that suits your current level of expertise.

You’ll work alongside award-winning professors whose expertise is extensive and varied in several areas, including: Big Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Human-Computer Interaction, Visualization & Graphics, Systems, Networks & Security, Algorithms & Bioinformatics, and Computer Science Education.

High profile research institutes and centres

Institute for Big Data Analytics

A first of its kind in Canada, the institute has a mission to create knowledge and expertise in the field of big data analytics by facilitating fundamental, interdisciplinary and collaborative research, advanced applications, advanced training, and partnerships with industry. bigdata.cs.dal.ca

DeepSense

DeepSense is a unique ocean research partnership between industry, academia and government that enables companies to benefit from technology solutions that solve real-world ocean related data challenges. deepsense.ca

Here We Code is a campaign that unites businesses, industries, students, and residents of Nova Scotia to take advantage of the opportunities in digital as we grow, together. As a Dalhousie Computer Science graduate student, you will have access to everything the digital ecosystem in Nova Scotia has to offer. There is a place for you here and we want you to be a part of it!

Master of Computer Science (MCS)

BECOME A WELL-ROUNDED RESEARCHER

As an MCS student, you'll be at the heart of the investigation and development of new knowledge in computer science. From collaborative lab work to discussion groups and seminar presentations from leading experts in your chosen area, the MCS program equips you with everything you need to start your journey in research. No matter your future plans, an MCS will open doors to a variety of careers and opportunities from further research to high impact roles in industry.

*This full-time program typically takes 1-2 years to complete and consists of four graduate courses in computer science and one successfully defended thesis.

PhD in Computer Science

CONDUCT INNOVATIVE AND INDEPENDENT RESEARCH

Make an impact through research across our signature research clusters. Through the PhD program you will work on original research under the mentorship of our world class researchers. In addition to exploring theories, methodological concepts, and substantive knowledge related to computer science, our PhD in Computer Science will help you develop a deep expertise in your areas of choice, preparing you for a successful career in research, academia or industry.

*This program typically takes 3-4 years to complete and consists of a number of graduate courses, a research aptitude defence, a thesis proposal, and a thesis defence.

FUNDED FELLOWSHIPS

We offer competitive funding to qualified research students including a range of funded-fellowship opportunities with professors across our research areas. We offer new opportunities to work on impactful projects every year so no matter your interests, you should find an option that works for you. Learn more about our researchers and their available projects and express your interest even prior to submitting your application!

Master of Digital Innovation (MDI)

LEAD IN THE AGE OF DIGITAL INNOVATION

Gain the knowledge and experience needed to boost your digital management career within any industry or sector. In the MDI you'll not only learn from experts from the Faculties of Computer Science, Management, and Law but also have the opportunity to customize your experience through certificate options in digital business, health informatics or data science. Providing you with a distinct set of skills and knowledge to meet your career objectives in today’s rapidly changing digital world.

*This full-time program typically takes 16 months to complete. Regardless of the certificate you take, all MDI students follow a similar core curriculum and have the option to do an internship or a research thesis.

Master of Applied Computer Science (MACS)

PREPARE FOR A DYNAMIC CAREER IN THE SOFTWARE INDUSTRY

Develop strong technical skills through core courses in systems, communications and data management. Through industry relevant curriculum and certificate options in web and mobile computing and cloud data analytics, the MACS program will equip you with everything you need for a career in Canada’s software industry. You will also have the opportunity to apply what you learn in the classroom through either a paid internship in industry, an entrepreneurship work term or research project.

*This full-time program typically takes 16 months to complete 3 academic terms plus one work term (either internship, entrepreneurial internship or project.)

CONNECTIONS TO INDUSTRY

Students in both the MDI and MACS programs have the option to complete an internship in industry, providing you with the real-world experience to prepare you to work in Canada’s rapidly growing digital ecosystem. Students in our programs have worked for Cisco, CGI, the Nova Scotia Health Authority, IBM Canada, ExxonMobile, Microsoft and more.