Computer science has been an active area at Lakehead University for over 25 years. The department resides in the University's Advanced Technology and Academic Centre (ATAC), a striking building that houses many of the University’s computing activities. Faculty, staff, and students are equipped with state-of-the-art computing facilities including smart lecture rooms, labs, and a variety of computing technologies (e.g. Virtual Reality, Parallel Computing).
The Master's program in computer science provides an opportunity to explore the breadth and depth of advanced knowledge in the discipline. Students benefit from a selection of advanced courses and a chance to pursue research that aligns with their interests and aspirations.
Three program options are available to students:
- Master’s by Course (1 year), which involves courses aligned with the IT industry requirements
- Master's by Project (2 years), which involves courses aligned with the IT industry needs and also includes a limited research project
- Master's by Thesis (2 years), which requires fewer courses and involves a more substantial research project
The Course-based master's program is not suitable for pursuing higher graduate programs (e.g. PhD). The Project and Thesis master's programs prepare students for higher graduate programs (e.g. PhD) and may provide them with further industrial experience through available Co-op placement opportunities.
Specialization in Artificial Intelligence
The Department of Computer Science is offering a two-year, thesis-based Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) program with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Students will develop the skills and knowledge to conduct research in the field of Computer Science with a focus on core AI techniques. Upon completion, students will be able to apply and select appropriate AI algorithms and techniques in a variety of industrial sectors and further advance the AI-related research. Topics will include deep learning, natural language processing, machine learning, image processing, pattern recognition, and other emerging technologies. Finally, students will develop research and application-based ethical awareness.
Please note: The AI Specialization is not eligible for the Co-operative Option.
MSc Computer Science Co-operative Program Option - For Project and Thesis based students, only:
A graduate student will normally be admitted to the co-operative program option after completion of two terms, for a starting date in May. Students are expected to obtain an aggregate of 80% or more and must have taken at least 4 half credit courses (excluding non-credit courses, project and thesis).
Co-op employment for 8 months (two terms) must be successfully completed to satisfy the co-op requirement for the degree.
Students interested in a co-op placement should inform the Department's Co-op Advisor at least four months in advance of the proposed date of the placement (e.g., by late December for placements beginning in May). The Department's decision as to the suitability of each candidate will be based primarily on academic performance. Successful candidates will work with the Student Success Centre and the university Co-op Coordinator in their search for suitable employment.
Upon completion of the co-op placement, the student will either complete a thesis (Thesis Program option) or complete the Project Program option requirements including the required project course.
NOTE: Students in this program must complete all requirements within six terms (2 years) of continuous registration. For co-op students, the duration of the co-op placement will be added to the program time limit.
