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Doctor of Philosophy in Computing Science

Overview

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

Admission to the graduate programs in computer science is competitive: only the best qualified applicants are offered a seat.

The minimum requirements for admission to the doctoral program:

Prior degree requirements:

Standard Track: a master's degree in Computing Science or related field from Simon Fraser University or its equivalent from a recognized institution;

Direct-entry Track: a bachelor's (but not master's) degree in Computing Science or related field from Simon Fraser University or its equivalent from a recognized institution. Direct-entry PhD applicants should have obtained a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.5/4.33, or a grade point average of at least 3.67/4.33 (A-) based on the last 60 units of undergraduate courses. Direct-entry PhD students must complete additional course requirements (see Program Requirements below).

English Language Requirements

English is the language of communication at the University and instruction in most programs. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate command of English sufficient to pursue graduate studies in the chosen field.

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Every PhD student is guaranteed a minimum funding of $30,000 per year for four years.

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PhD Milestones

Students are expected to complete the program requirements in 12 to 15 terms (4 to 5 years).
By end of year 1 (3rd semester): Form a supervisory committee, with approval of the GPC.
By end of year 2 (6th semester): Breadth OR Depth Exam completed.
By end of year 3 (9th semester): Depth Exam AND Proposal completed.

For additional information about university requirements, see: https://www.sfu.ca/gradstudies/apply/applying/requirements.html

Program Requirements

Students must complete

four graduate courses in computing science for a minimum of 12 units
and a thesis
CMPT 899 - PhD Thesis (18)

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.

Supervision

A supervisory committee, at either the MSc or PhD level, consists of the student's supervisor, at least one other computing science faculty member, and optionally other members (typically faculty) as appropriate. Note that a student may have two co-senior supervisors. The choice of the 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.

More information and regulations on supervisory committees can be found in Section 1.6 of the Graduate General Regulations.

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fee structure is based on a per term (not per unit) fee per term for domestic students and international students.

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Financial Support & Funding

Graduate students at SFU Computing Science are normally provided with financial support through a combination of teaching assistantships, graduate fellowships, sessional instructor positions, and a variety of merit-based scholarships.

Every PhD student is guaranteed minimum funding $30,000 per year for four years.