Please note:
To view the Spring 2024 Academic Calendar, go to www.sfu.ca/students/calendar/2024/spring.html.
Computing Science
The doctor of philosophy (PhD) in computing science, is a research-intensive program that has a primary emphasis on the thesis. The program provides an environment for interdisciplinary education in theoretical and applied computer science. Through training in formal coursework and hands-on research in areas such as artificial intelligence, computer systems and networks, computer graphics, and data mining, graduates will be capable of working with integrity to design, improve, and apply cutting-edge computational techniques to support a career in academia, industry or the public sector.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must satisfy the university admission requirements as stated in Graduate General Regulations 1.3 in the SFU Calendar. Students must hold a master's degree or the equivalent in Computer Science or another related field.
At its discretion, the school's graduate admissions committee may recommend PhD admission to exceptional students holding only a bachelor's degree or equivalent in computer science or a related field with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.67.
Program Requirements
This program consists of course work and a thesis for a minimum of 30 units selected in consultation with the Graduate Chair or supervisor.
Students will demonstrate breadth of knowledge, and the capacity to conduct original research through completion and defence of an original thesis.
Students must complete
four graduate courses in computing science for a minimum of 12 units
and a thesis
Students without an MSc or equivalent
complete additional four graduate courses in computing science for a minimum of 12 units selected in consultation with the Graduate Chair or supervisor.
Program Length
Students are expected to complete the program requirements in 12 to 15 terms (4 to 5 years).
Other Information
Course Work
Students are required to complete breadth requirements selected from five different areas. This is to be done in consultation with the supervisor or graduate program chair if the supervisor has not been appointed yet. For more information on breadth requirements and restrictions, see program website.
Supervisory Committee
A supervisory committee consists of the student's supervisor, at least one other computing science faculty member, and others (typically faculty) as appropriate. The choice of supervisor should be made by mutual consent of the graduate student and faculty member based on commonality of research interests. The student and supervisor should consult on the remainder of the committee members.
Transfer from MSc to PhD Program
As per GGR 1.3.7b, students enrolled in the MSc program may apply to transfer to the doctor of philosophy (PhD) program after two terms and normally before the seventh term. Students must have a CGPA of 3.5 or above, completed 75% of the required master's course work and evidence must be provided that the student is capable of undertaking substantial original research.
Academic Requirements within the Graduate General Regulations
All graduate students must satisfy the academic requirements that are specified in the Graduate General Regulations, as well as the specific requirements for the program in which they are enrolled.