Computational Science and Engineering, M.Sc.

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Master’s Degrees

The Master’s programs emphasize industry relevant academic research and development. The degree (M.Sc.) may be earned either with a thesis option, a course-and-project option, or a coursework-only option. A strong bachelor’s degree with an average of at least B+ (equivalent to a McMaster GPA of 8.5) in physical sciences, mathematics or engineering that included a substantial computational component is generally required to enter the Master’s programs with thesis option. For the Master’s programs with the course-and-project or coursework-only option an average of at least a B is required.

Master’s Degrees with Thesis

A candidate for a Master’s degree with thesis is required to successfully complete a minimum of four half courses and successfully defend a thesis. Two of the four half courses have to be chosen from the three core courses offered by the School. The remaining two half courses are normally chosen from the list of the courses approved by the School. One of the courses may be at the 600-level where appropriate. Additional courses beyond the minimum four may be required by the Director, in consultation with the supervisor. The thesis topic is to be chosen in consultation with the supervisor. The School arranges a series of seminars; candidates are required to attend and participate, and may be required to present their research results as part of this series. Normally, the thesis-based program is completed within 20 months of full time study. It is expected that many students will choose this route towards a Ph.D. degree.

Master’s Degrees with Project

A candidate for a Master’s degree with project is required to successfully complete a minimum of six half courses plus a research project. The project is to be decided jointly by the candidate and the supervisor, and approved by the Director. Of the six half courses, three must be the core courses, whereas the remaining three course may be chosen from those listed by the School, in consultation with the project supervisor. Up to two of the half courses may be at the 600-level. The School arranges a series of seminars; candidates are required to attend and participate, and may be required to present their research results as part of this series. Normally, this option will require 16 months residence. This option is not a preferred qualification for entrance to a Ph.D. program.

Master’s Degrees by Coursework

A candidate for a Master’s degree by coursework is required to successfully complete a minimum of eight half courses. Of these, four must be the three core courses and the course CSE 745 / Parallel and High Performance Computing , whereas the remaining courses may be chosen from any of those listed by the School, in consultation with the Director. Up to two of the half courses may be at the 600-level. The School arranges a series of seminars; candidates are required to attend and participate. Normally, this option will require 12-16 months residency. This option is not a preferred qualification for entrance to a Ph.D. program.