For all programs EXCEPT the MSc (course-based) with a specialization in Multimedia:
Applicants for the MSc degree in Computing Science should have a four-year undergraduate degree or the equivalent from a recognized university, with adequate background in computing science and mathematics.
There is no direct admission to the MSc with a specialization in Statistical Machine Learning. Applicants wishing to pursue this program should apply to the thesis-based MSc; they may apply to transfer to the SML program after one or two terms of study provided a supervisor is found.
Applicants for the PhD in Computing Science must have an MSc degree in Computing Science or a related field.
Exceptionally qualified applicants having the equivalent of a First-Class Honors BSc degree may be admitted directly to the PhD program.
MSc candidates who perform especially well in their first session (eight months) of studies, may apply to change program category into the PhD program after two terms of study.
All applicants must have an admission GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent standing from a recognized institution. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last ★60 of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework.
Where applicable, applicants must provide proof of English Language Proficiency (refer to English Language Requirement). Any one of the following is acceptable:
- a minimum TOEFL score of 100 with a minimum score of 20 on each of the individual skill areas (internet-based), or equivalent
- a minimum score of 90 on the MELAB,
- a minimum of 6.0 on each band on the IELTS with an overall minimum score of 7.0,
- a minimum overall score of 70 on the CAEL with at least 60 on each subtest
- a minimum overall score of 68 on the PTE.
In addition, the Department of Computing Science reserves the right to require a demonstration of English language proficiency.
Applicants must also submit three letters of reference and a CV.
Applicants to a thesis-based MSc are required to select a research area and name up to three professors as potential supervisors.
Applicants to a PhD are required to submit a statement of purpose, the abstract of their MSc thesis, and the names of up to three professors as potential supervisors. PhD students will only be admitted if a professor agrees to be their supervisor.
A Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is optional but highly recommended for non-Canadian applicants, as well as Canadian applicants with a degree from a non-Canadian university. The GRE is also recommended for students with backgrounds unrelated to Computing Science. The examinations should be written early enough so that scores will be available by the application deadline.
For the MSc (course-based) with a specialization in Multimedia:
Applicants for the MSc degree with a specialization in Multimedia should have a four-year undergraduate degree in Computing Science, Computer Engineering, or in a related field in Science or Engineering with some coding and implementation experience. Applicants must have an admission GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent standing from a recognized institution. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last ★60 of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework.
Where applicable, applicants must meet the minimum English Language Requirement.
Applicants are also required to submit a CV, multimedia-related professional certificates/diplomas, and a multimedia project history (if not included in the CV).
Industrial experience may be considered as a factor when considering admission of students close to these boundaries. It should be noted that these are minimum requirements only.
Applications to the MSc in Multimedia program will be assessed by the MSc in Multimedia admission.
Application Deadlines
For all programs EXCEPT the MSc (course-based) with a specialization in Multimedia, the early application deadline is December 15. Assessment of applications will begin on this date as well as consideration for funding and scholarships. Applications will continue to be accepted until January 15.
For the MSc (course-based) with a specialization in Multimedia the application deadline is April 30.
Canadian students who hold major scholarships may contact the Department at any time, even if it is after the deadline.