ResearchIntranet
Students sitting at a table during lecture

Graduate Studies in Computing

The School of Computer Science (SoCS) offers students opportunities for advanced research and graduate studies. 

Our faculty are at the cutting edge of their fields, offering courses that cover a wide range of computer science areas and provide competitive financial incentives to eligible students. Graduate studies in SoCS enables our students to engage in groundbreaking research, prepare for work in industry or engage in further studies.

We encourage prospective students to explore our campus by booking a virtual or in-person Campus Tour or taking a virtual tour of our newly renovated Reynolds Building using our Interactive Campus Map.

Our Programs

Three students looking into a laptop

Course-based programs

Our one-year course-based master’s program in SoCS is perfect for those seeking to broaden their career horizons in diverse sectors. Benefit from experiential learning and gain access to globally renowned research scientists and educators, along with exceptional research and teaching facilities.

Professor giving a lecture in hall

Thesis-based programs

Building on the University of Guelph’s rich STEM legacy since 1874, our thesis-based master’s and PhD programs in SoCS are tailored for those aspiring to excel in research or academia, offering an opportunity to intensify their proficiency in core program disciplines.

Finding a Research Advisor

SoCS has a long history of conducting interdisciplinary research, as clearly reflected in the emphasis of our interdisciplinary PhD program and collaborative MSc programs. Our graduate faculty are experts in diverse research areas. 

Tips for Finding a Research Advisor

If you are applying to a thesis-based MSc or PhD graduate program in SoCS, you will need to find a graduate faculty research advisor as securing an advisor to supervise your thesis research is required for admission.

Before contacting members of our graduate faculty, we strongly recommend visiting current available opportunities and reviewing the following tips (below) to optimize the success of your communications:

Be informed
Before reaching out, review our faculty’s research areas, their publications, and specific interests.
Use concise, targeted communication
Faculty advisors receive numerous emails, so use short paragraphs, a clear title, and be professional.
Stand out from the crowd
Highlight unique achievements, publications, similar interests, and experience to show why you are a good fit.
Communicate early
Begin reaching out to faculty 9-12 months before application deadlines.
Be patient
Graduate faculty are busy, especially at semester start and end, so follow up only after a few weeks without a response.
Reach out to multiple faculty
Contacting multiple faculty members, not just one or two, can enhance your recruitment chances.

Questions? 

If you need further assistance, please contact our Graduate Program Specialist at csgradassist@uoguelph.ca