The course-based Master’s program in Computer Science can be completed in 4 semesters (16 months). It starts either in September or January. Applicants to this program are expected to have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field, such as Computer Engineering and Information Technology (or any other computing-related sciences). The program is intended for students who wish to further develop their knowledge in Computer Science by expanding their expertise across a wide variety of fields. No financial aid is provided to course-based students and students must have the necessary resources to self-support during their studies.

Admitted students are required to take a minimum of 10 courses, of which at least 7 courses must be in Computer Science. The remaining 3 elective courses can be either in Computer Science or other related disciplines (as approved by the Graduate Studies Committee). 

Normally, students will complete 5 courses each year (2 courses in Fall and Winter semesters, and 1 course in the Spring semester). 

After completion of three semesters, some students will have the opportunity to enroll in work term courses. The work term is full-time, paid and lasts one or two semesters (4 or 8 months) with a single employer. Admission to the work term is limited, competitive and selective; not everyone who applies is admitted. Participation in the work term courses will normally extend the program duration by one semester.

The following table presents a typical study progression for course-based students.