The School of Computing Science at SFU offers a full-time master's program in professional computer science, allowing students to take courses in areas like:

Data science, data engineering, computer vision, computer graphics, deep learning, computer security, and software security. 

This cohort-based program trains computational specialists who can construct models, develop algorithms, and write software using state-of-the-art graduate-level knowledge and techniques.

Unlike traditional thesis-based degrees, this program does not have a research component. 

Instead, almost half of the coursework consists of hands-on lab training, complemented by a carefully selected array of instructional courses. 

Students develop deep knowledge and practical skills working with data in all forms.

A hallmark of the program is mandatory, paid co-op placement. 

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

The Master of Science in Professional Computer Science requires students to complete a minimum of 30 units of graduate work. These units are divided as follows: 

• A minimum of 15 credits of graduate coursework
   
• 12 credits of specialized lab work
   
• 3 credits for co-op (internship) work

The program is normally four semesters (or 16 months) in length. This includes a four-month co-op placement.

• Official transcripts
• Reference Letters
• Statement of purpose
• CV
• English Language Proficiency test scores
• Passport

Students applying to this program must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent in computer science or a related field.

In order for students to succeed in this program, it is expected that they have the following knowledge/experience prior to beginning their studies:

• Ability to program in Java, Python and C++. Familiarity with programming and ability to learn new languages. Students planning to take courses in computer graphics, computer vision, etc. may not need Java and C++ but need Matlab
• Knowledge of advanced math - calculus, linear algebra and advanced statistics
• Knowledge of data structures and algorithms, databases, and operating systems

Iran

Required Credential or Degree

Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university

Minimum Overall Academic Standing

16 on a 20-point scale

China

Required Credential or Degree

A four-year Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.

Minimum Overall Academic Standing

3 on a 4-point scale (B, 75%);
4 on a 5-point scale (B, 80%)

India

Required Credential or Degree

M.A., M.B.B.S., M.Comm., M.Sc., or a Master's degree in a non–engineering field or Honours B.Eng., B.Sc.(Eng.), B.Tech., B.A.Sc., B.Arch. B.Pharm

3-year degrees are an acceptable basis for admission if:

• The applicant’s overall standing in degree is 1st Class/Division, AND
• The awarding institutions have been accredited by India’s National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with a grade of A or better http://www.naac.gov.in/ OR
• The awarding institution is designated an Institution of National Importance, such as the Indian Institute of Technology.

Minimum Overall Academic Standing

First Class; 8 on a 10-point scale