MS in Computer Science in Canada; Top Universities, Requirements, Fees & Job Scope

Before we can head up to the details of studying Masters in Computer Science in Canada, let's first understand why you should consider Canada for this course.

1. Innovative Curriculum

Canada provides an innovative academic curriculum for teaching MS in computer science. Apart from offering an academic curriculum, it also uses the latest advanced technologies to enhance students' learning experiences.

2. Top-ranked QS universities

There are many recognized Canadian universities for MS in computer science for international students. Overall 22 universities in Canada have been featured in the QS World University Rankings 2024. It is worth mentioning that 5 universities are featured in the Top 100 universities for Computer Science across the world.

3. Job Opportunities

The scope of job profiles in the computer science industry is far beyond the supply of the labor market. According to JobBank Canada, there will be a projected demand of 20,700 job openings for software engineers and computer engineers for the year 2017-2022. This makes masters in computer science a lucrative career option for the students.

4. Work Permit

The Canadian government provides six months to apply for a work permit after completing an MS in CS in Canada. After 3 years of stay and working under the study permit, you may also be eligible for a permanent residency in Canada.

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To give you a brief understanding of what a Master in Computer Science studies looks like in Canada, here is an overview.

There are various top universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science and MSc in Computer Science in Canada. Here we have covered a list of the top 5 universities, their rankings, programs offered, and tuition fees.

• University of Toronto
• McGill University
• University of British Columbia
• University of Alberta
• University of Waterloo

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto is a globally top-ranked institute, distinguished by an extraordinary depth and breadth of excellence. The university provides students with a transformative educational experience that equips them with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to navigate the rapidly changing world. The computer science program of UoT consists of courses and research that are conducted under the supervision of a faculty member.

2. McGill University

McGill University provides computer science programs through its School of Computer Science, one of Canada's leading teaching and research centers for computer science subjects. The computer science program of the university includes research and coursework. It also gives you an option between a thesis and a non-thesis option which requires a project. Machine learning, robotics, computer animation, and graphics are some of the applications of the program.

3. University of British Columbia

The UBC Computer Science program is recognized internationally for its excellence in research and teaching with a conscious focus on interdisciplinary programs. This program encourages diversity both within its community and areas of study and plays a leadership role in research, training, and outreach activities to champion the understanding and integration of computer science within all aspects of society.

4. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta provides admissions to a computer science program taught by the Computing Science Department of the university. This program is offered as a thesis based program as well as course based. The thesis-based computer science program comes with a specialization in Statistical Machine learning whereas the Multimedia specialization is offered as a course-based program.

5. University of Waterloo

The computer science programs at the University of Waterloo are available under three different study options i.e. thesis, masters research paper, and coursework. Students pursuing this course will have the opportunity to research algorithms and complexity, artificial intelligence, computer graphics, cryptography, security, databases, quantum computing, software engineering, systems and engineering, etc.

To apply for an MS in Computer Science in Canada, you must fulfil a set of rules. These criteria might vary based on your choice of university, however, there are common requirements that need to be followed.

• Bachelor's Degree
• GMAT or GRE Score
• English Language Test
• Work Experience

Let's discuss the MS Computer Science in Canada eligibility criteria.

Bachelor's Degree

To apply for an MS in CS in Canada all students must have a bachelor's degree in computer science or maths or any computing subject with a grade score of atleast B+ from a recognised university. You must provide original translated transcripts too.

GMAT or GRE Scores

Another most important for CS in Canada requirement is the GMAT or GRE test scores. The GMAT scores vary depending on the type of CS program and the university you choose. However, currently, some universities have made it an optional score in applications.

English Language Test

If your native language is not English, you must have a TOEFL score of at least 90 out of 120. You can also submit scores of IELTS, PTE, and CAE.

Work Experience

You need at least 2 years of work experience for Master's in Computer Science. Though it's not mandatory in every university, make sure to check the list of requirements for each university you apply to.

Here is the list of documents you need for MS in CS in Canada:

• All official documents
• GPA
• English Language Proficiency
• Statement of Interest
• Letter of Recommendation
• CV or Resume
• Portfolio
• Work Experience

The MS Computer Science in Canada cost will depend on two different factors: tuition fees and the cost of living. Based on these factors, you can arrange your funding accordingly

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees to study Masters in Computer Science in Canada range between CAD 15,600 (INR 9,59,340) to CAD 27,350 (INR 16,81,920) per year. Some universities also charge somewhere between CAD 650 (INR 39,970) to CAD 11,400 (INR 7,01,050) in terms of credit score.

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Costs of Living

The living costs in Canada generally depend on the location you choose to live and your lifestyle. Based on average, the cost of living in a Canadian city apartment for a year can go up to CAD 16,500 (INR 10,14,690) per year and for a month it is CAD 1,450 (INR 89,170) per month.

The maximum expenses of any international students are usually incurred in their accommodation. Students who choose to live off-campus will have to pay more as compared to on-campus. Apart from rent, basic amenities such as food, transport, stationary, housing, etc are also crucial factors in the costs.

Now that we have discussed all the eligibility requirements, costs, and documents let us know about the best universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science.

GRE tests are one of the important exams needed for admission to MS Computer Science programs in Canadian Universities. This score helps universities evaluate international students from different academic backgrounds. Here we have curated a list of universities accepting GRE scores at the application.

If you are applying for an MS in Computer Science in Canada without gre score, then you are not required to worry much about your admission. Different computer science universities do not require GRE tests as their mandatory documents in the applications. Some of them are:

• Concordia University
• University of New Brunswick
• Trent University
• University of Regina
• Laval University
• Carleton University
• University of Fraser Valley
• Dalhousie University

Pursuing a master's in computer science in Canada with a scholarship can help you manage finances. There are different types of scholarships offered through entrance exams, admission, or external scholarships by Canadian colleges and universities to support your study period for this course. Here we have covered some of the top ones.

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There are several job opportunities after Masters in Computer Science in Canada for international students. This industry has a bigger scope in Canada as popular companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, CGI, Sterling Turner and others are top recruitors from Canadian universities.

Some top job profiles and their estimated salary information after a Masters in Computer Science in Canada.

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Pursuing a Master's in Computer Science in Canada opens doors to a world of opportunities. From renowned universities to thriving job prospects in the rapidly growing IT sector - international students get to explore all. With a diverse curriculum, renowned faculty, and multiple scholarship options, Canada offers an ideal environment for academic and professional growth in the field of computer science. Canada's vibrant culture and supportive community foster an enriching educational experience. Take the first step towards realizing your academic aspirations in Canada, where endless possibilities await.

Navigating the intricate path of a master's in Computer Science in Canada requires expert guidance and personalized support. With Yocket Premium, gain access to exclusive resources and tailored assistance to ace every aspect of your application journey.  Let us be your trusted companion as you embark on this exhilarating pursuit of academic excellence at the prestigious universities in Canada. Good luck!