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). 

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.