Canada’s only 100% Online Master of Computer Science Degree

Wilfrid Laurier University’s online Master of Computer Science program is designed to help you reach your professional potential by cultivating the advanced real-world skills you’ll need to excel in parallel programming, application development, algorithm design, data mining and analysis, cyber-attack and defence, machine learning and technology entrepreneurship.

This computer science master’s degree is the only 100% online program of its kind in Canada, combining a world-class graduate education with the convenience of online learning. Laurier’s innovative online master’s program in computer science is a direct response to growing industry demand, showing you how to turn technical knowledge into practical real-world development and programming skills.

Online Masters in Computer Science Program Summary

Admission Requirements

You must meet the general admission requirements and have the following:

  • An honours undergraduate degree in computer science or a closely related field such as: computer engineering, information systems, mathematics, applied computing, or another area of STEM
  • Undergraduate courses in data structure and computer algorithms are required; Courses in object-oriented programming and software engineering are an asset
  • A final year average of at least B+, with a cumulative average of at least B+ in all computer science courses

Applicants must submit the following paperwork:

  • All transcripts from all universities or colleges attended
  • A statement of intent
  • A resume
  • Two reference letters

Interested applicants who do not meet the academic requirements above but who have significant work experience or previous education in computer programming are encouraged to speak with an enrolment advisor to discuss their situation, including possible upgrading opportunities, such as a Qualifying year (Q year) with Laurier.

A Q year consists of two courses designed to upgrade candidate knowledge and skills to meet the admission requirements for the MCS program. Candidates who pass both Q year courses with a B average or higher will be recommended by the department for acceptance into the MCS program upon reapplication.

Get your digital program guide for more course information

 

The MCS degree is currently not eligible for Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), but all students can be considered for Laurier’s scholarships, awards and bursaries, which could provide financial support towards the cost of this degree.

Program Features
  • 100% online course delivery and the only program of its kind in Canada.
  • Learn parallel programming, application development, algorithm design, data mining and analysis, cyber-attack and defense, machine learning and technology entrepreneurship, and more.
  • Consists of eight courses. Each 13-week course equals 0.5 credit hours, for a program total of four credit hours.
  • In the accelerated model, students take two courses at a time, completing the program in as few as 16 months. In the part-time model, students take two courses in the first term and fifth term only, completing the program in six terms (approximately two years).
  • During each course, a student is expected to spend approximately ten hours per week per course studying and completing coursework.
  • The MCS program is delivered online, and students are not required to visit campus or reside in Canada to complete coursework. In rare cases, if an instructor indicates an in-person assessment is required, students will be made aware in advance and offered advisor support in planning for completion. Study permits and/or student visas are not required or provided
Why Choose Laurier's Online Master of Computer Science?
  • Join the only 100% online Master of Computer Science degree program in Canada
  • Connect flexibility and affordability, complete the program in as few as 20 months
  • There are three start dates per year aligning with winter, spring and fall terms
  • Master the specialized skills sought by top employers worldwide
  • Learn from award-winning faculty and build real-world skills through practical application
  • Improve your ability to use Python, Java, SQL, C/C++, Java, Hadoop, Spark, Kali Linux, CUDA, MapReduce, Metasploit, Nmap, and more
  • Examine advanced machine learning techniques, applied cryptography algorithms, big data, software development, application development, data mining, penetration testing, information security, and more

Online Master's in Computer Science Program Curriculum

Below is a sample list of courses you will be required to complete during the online Master of Computer Science program:

 
CP 631: Parallel Programming (0.5 credit)

Parallel computers, or supercomputers or high performance clusters are ubiquitous today in science and engineering. Parallel programming requires inventing new algorithms and programming techniques. This course covers the fundamental paradigms of parallel programming, with an emphasis on problem solving and actual applications. The parallel programming concepts and algorithms are illustrated via implementations in OpenMP and MPI (Message Passing Interface), as well as serial farming.

Next application deadline:

  • July 15, 2023

Next start date:

  • August 1, 2023

Apply Now

CP640: Machine Learning (0.5 Credit)

Machine learning is the science of getting computers to act without being explicitly programmed. In the past decade, machine learning has given us self-driving cars, practical speech recognition, effective web search, and a vastly improved understanding of the human genome. This course introduces students to machine learning, data mining, and statistical pattern recognition. Topics include supervised learning (parametric/non-parametric algorithms, support vector machines, kernels, neural networks) and unsupervised learning (clustering, dimensionality reduction, recommender systems, deep learning). Students learn a variety of learning algorithms and determine which are most likely to be successful.

CP682B: Topics In Applied Cryptography Algorithms And Issues In Applied Cryptography (0.5 Credit)

Topics include block ciphers, stream ciphers, public-key cryptography, AES, elliptic curve cryptosystems, block chain, digital signatures, zero knowledge proofs. Also, current issues in information security such as privacy enhancing technologies and post quantum cryptography.

CP 669: iPhone Application Programming (0.5 credit)

Apple iPhones are one of the most popular smartphones on the market today, with thousands of applications downloaded every day. This course provides students with the knowledge to develop applications for iPhones, iPads, and iPods, using the Cocoa Touch framework on iOS and introducing students to the programming language Swift. More specifically, students learn how to develop interfaces for mobile devices and the challenges faced when developing applications that use different input modalities. Other topics include web services and memory management for mobile devices.

CP 670: Android Application Programming (0.5 credit)

As the worldwide smartphone market continues to grow, so does the demand for mobile applications. This course provides students with the skills for creating and deploying applications for mobile devices using Android, the most widely used operating system. With an emphasis on the Model-View-Controller paradigm this course provides students with the foundational knowledge that underlies many popular programming languages. The course cumulates with the development of an original Android application. Knowledge of Java is required.

Data Analyst

Average base annual salary: $58,417

Source: Payscale

In demand skills:

  • Data Analyst
  • SQL
  • Database Management & Reporting
Senior Data Scientist

Average base annual salary: $108,243

Source: Payscale

In demand skills:

  • Machine Learning
  • Python
  • Big Data Analytics
Lead Software Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $100,833

Source: Payscale

In demand skills:

  • Software Development
  • Java
  • Software Architecture
Software Engineer

Average base annual salary: $77,871

Source: Payscale

In demand skills:

  • Javascript
  • Python
  • SQL
Software Development Manager

Average base annual salary: $113,979

Source: Payscale

In demand skills:

  • Agile Software Development
  • Software Development Management
  • Project Management
Network Architect

Average base annual salary: $93,521

Source: Payscale

In demand skills:

  • Network Architecture / Design
  • IT Security & Infrastructure
  • Switching and Routing

Career Outlook with an online Masters in Computer Science

There is a multitude of career opportunities in the field of computer science with top companies around the world. The field of computer science is growing in Canada, with more employers looking to add senior-level staff to their teams.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to frequently asked questions about Wilfrid Laurier University Masters in Computer Science online programs. To speak with an enrolment advisor who can help answer questions by email, email us at MCSadvising@wlu.ca.

How is the online MCS offered?

Wilfrid Laurier University’s 100% online program is offered through the MyLearningSpace online portal in either a part-time model or accelerated model. In the part-time model, students can complete the program in 6 terms or two years. In the accelerated model, students take two courses at a time and complete the program in four terms or 16 months.

Is the Master of Computer Science online degree the same as the degree earned on campus?

Yes, the Master of Computer Science online degree is the same degree as is earned on campus at Wilfrid Laurier University, however the on-campus degree is called the Master of Applied Computing. Both Computer Science degrees share our excellent instructors and faculty.

Is the Master of Computer Science online program for non-CS majors?

The Master of Computer Science online program is designed for entry-level or mid-level computer science professionals with an undergraduate degree in computer science, applied computing, computer engineering, information systems, mathematics, or another related field.

What sets Laurier’s online Masters in Computer Science apart from other programs?

Wilfrid Laurier University offers the first and only Master’s level online Computer Science degree in Canada. It is online by design, built intentionally for the platform. Since launching the program in 2018, we’ve continued to iterate and improve the online MCS.