Program Overview

Dream It. Build It.

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 defense, 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.

Choose the Laurier 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 16-months
• 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, big data, software development, application development, data mining, penetration testing, information security and more

Download the curriculum guide.

Online Master of Computer Science Program Curriculum

Each course in our online Master of Computer Science was designed to help you build the exact skills and proficiencies employers seek in their senior level employees. The program facilitates learning and skill development through real-world application. You’ll study the theoretical and technical aspects of computer science, and then immediately apply those concepts to immersive projects and learning experiences that promote problem-solving and innovative thinking.

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

• CP 631: Advanced Parallel Programming (0.5 credit)
• CP 669: iPhone Application Programming (0.5 credit)
• CP 685: Cyber Attack & Defence (0.5 credit)
• CP 610: Data Analysis (0.5 credit)
• CP 670: Android Application Programming (0.5 credit)
• CP 600: Practical Algorithm Design (0.5 credit)

To view a full list, download the curriculum guide.

Online Master of Computer Science Admission Requirements

The online Master of Computer Science program is designed for those who have obtained an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related field such as computer engineering, information systems, mathematics, applied computing or another area of STEM. Admission requirements also include undergraduate courses in computer algorithms and objectoriented programming.

To be admitted to the online Master of Computer Science (MCS) program, students must meet the general admission requirements of the University, and must have an honours degree in Computer Science or a closely related area that includes courses in data structure, object-oriented language programming, and software engineering. A final year average of at least B+ is usually required, along with a cumulative average of at least B+ in all computer science courses.

Applications are reviewed by the Graduate Studies Committee, which considers all prior university grades, letters of reference and indications of support from potential supervisors.

Applicants must submit the following paperwork: 

• Submit all transcripts from all universities or colleges attended
• Prepare a statement of intent
• Submit a resume
• Submit two reference letters

Interested applicants who do not meet the academic requirements above, but who have signifcant work experience in computer programming are encouraged to speak with an Online Enrolment Advisor to discuss their situation, including possible upgrading opportunities.

To learn more about the program, download the curriculum guide.

Online Master of Computer Science Careers and Outcomes

There are a multitude of career opportunities in the field of computer science with top companies around the world. Whether you’re ready to unlock your career potential or want to create your own opportunities in computer science, it's a growing field that fuels our world’s technology and innovation. In the United States alone, the field of computer science is projected to grow 13 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations adding more than 500,000 jobs in the coming years. The field is growing in Canada too, with more employers looking to add senior-level staff to their teams.

Graduates of the Master of Computer Science online program can be considered for any of the more than 5,000 active job listings in Canada for advanced software developers, software engineers and senior software engineers. Employers across the country are seeking top candidates with a Master’s Degree in Computer Science for positions such as:

• Senior Data Scientist
• Product Manager
• Software Developer
• Project Manager
• Software Engineer
• Senior Application Developer

The Master of Computer Science degree is recognized by employers worldwide as an indicator of advanced skills and a clear differentiator that can lead to career progression. Our online Master of Computer Science program develops the skills employers are seeking through practical application, with each course designed to improve your overall competencies and skill set, while elevating you  to become a leader in your chosen field.

For more information, download the curriculum guide or call 1.888.368.0345.

Gain the Skills and Credentials Employers Demand

Our Master of Computer Science online program can help you differentiate yourself from other professionals with a similar background or undergraduate degree. When you earn a master’s degree you’ll stand out from your competition. A master’s degree in computer science is a sign of advanced preparation that helps you qualify for senior-level career opportunities, leadership responsibilities and project oversight positions that require advanced expertise.

Learn from Industry Experienced Faculty

The award-winning faculty teaching our online Master of Computer Science program bring real-world insight and diversity into the online learning environment. Faculty members share their extensive, practical experience working in computer science, physics, cloud computing, networked platforms, middleware systems, parallel programing, app development, information theory and more. Their firsthand knowledge guides our learn-by-doing approach, connecting theory and practical skill development in each and every course.

A Program Built in Direct Response to Industry Demand

The online Master of Computer Science program focuses on helping you define your role in the future of programming, development and technology entrepreneurship by focusing on the skills sought by top employers looking to hire advanced developers, engineers and other senior-level computer science professionals. Build the expertise required for careers in parallel programming, application development, algorithm design, data mining and analysis, cybersecurity and machine learning.

With a computer science master's degree, you can create new opportunities, extend your career, increase professional autonomy, set yourself apart from the crowd and thrive as an innovator, entrepreneur or leader in this highly desirable field.

A Commitment to Learning and Innovation

Earn your Master of Computer Science degree online from Laurier, a top-ranked university, internationally recognized for academic excellence and innovation. Our main campus is located in Canada’s technology hub of Waterloo, and has been an integral part of the Kitchener-Waterloo community for more than a century.

Accessible Excellence

Competitively priced, the Master of Computer Science online program is conveniently offered in an accelerated or part-time model, enabling you to join an established academic community and a worldwide alumni network on a schedule that fits your busy lifestyle.

Learn more by downloading the curriculum guide.