SFU CS launches three new Graduate Professional Diploma programs in Big Data, Cybersecurity, and Visual Computing

SFU's School of Computing Science is expanding its professional graduate offerings with the launch of three new Graduate Professional Diploma programs in Big Data, Cybersecurity, and Visual Computing. These part-time programs are designed to equip students with specialized, industry-relevant skills in some of the fastest-growing areas of technology. Students may complete the program in only twelve months.

The new diploma programs reflect SFU’s commitment to delivering innovative education that responds to emerging workforce needs while building on the university’s strengths in research and industry engagement. They also support British Columbia’s growing technology sector by helping develop highly qualified talent in areas that continue to experience strong demand.

As organizations across industry, government, and the non-profit sector increasingly rely on data-driven technologies, digital infrastructure, and advanced visualization tools, demand for professionals with expertise in big data, cybersecurity, and visual computing continues to grow. However, employers face ongoing challenges in finding qualified talent to fill these critical roles.

“The School of Computing Science is helping address the growing demand for highly skilled technology professionals in British Columbia and across Canada,” says computing science director and professor Oliver Schulte. “These new programs provide students with practical, specialized training that prepares them to contribute to some of the most important and rapidly evolving fields in computing.”

Cybersecurity remains a national priority as organizations work to protect critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and sensitive information from increasingly sophisticated threats.

“Canada’s digital future depends on a workforce equipped to safeguard data, systems, and technologies,” says Ali Mahdavi-Amiri, director of the professional master’s and diploma programs in computing science. “At the same time, industries are seeking experts who can harness the power of big data and visual computing to drive innovation and solve complex challenges.”

Mahdavi-Amiri notes that Canada’s visual computing sector is experiencing significant growth, creating opportunities across industries such as robotics, gaming, visual effects, augmented and virtual reality, autonomous systems, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.

Students in all three programs will combine advanced coursework with hands-on learning experiences in classrooms and laboratories. The curriculum is designed to provide practical skills and applied knowledge that align with current industry needs and prepare graduates for a wide range of technology careers.

The launch of these programs builds on SFU Computing Science’s strong reputation to meet the growing demand for graduates with the scientific knowledge and technical skills needed to excel in today’s technological world. According to CSRankings, SFU is recognized among Canada’s leading institutions in areas including computer vision, computer security, and data-intensive computing, ranking among the top two in Canada.

“SFU is home to world-class faculty and researchers whose expertise spans big data, cybersecurity, and visual computing,” says Mahdavi-Amiri. “These programs leverage that expertise to provide students with a high-quality educational experience while helping meet the evolving needs of industry. We are excited to welcome our first cohort and contribute to the development of the next generation of technology leaders.”

The first cohort of students will begin their studies in September 2026 at SFU’s Burnaby campus.