Computer Science - Master of Math (MMath)

Mathematics 3 Building

Mathematics 3 (M3) Building on Waterloo's Campus

Pursue an in-demand career in computer science with the Master of Mathematics in Computer Science, with the option to choose from a thesis-based or research paper-based program.

Advance your knowledge in areas like machine learning and cloud computing or pursue your preferred area of research with a supervisor. You’ll be prepared to conduct further research at the PhD level or pursue a career in industry. 

The MMath in Computer Science is offered through the Cheriton School of Computer Science, which has been ranked number one nationally four years in a row based on program and research reputation according to the Maclean’s 2024 university rankings. Waterloo and the Cheriton School are among the top 25 universities internationally for computer science according to the 2023, 2022 and 2021 Quacquarelli Symonds worldwide university subject rankings, and attract exceptional students from all over the world.  

Research areas include algorithms and complexity, artificial intelligence and machine learning, bioinformatics, computer algebra and symbolic computation, computer graphics, cryptography, security and privacy, data systems, formal methods, health informatics, human computer interaction, programming languages, quantum computing, scientific computation, software engineering and systems networking. 

Program highlights

  • Learn from internationally acclaimed researchers
  • Access research-intensive lab spaces
  • Opportunities to publish your work and present at top conferences
  • Own your work. Waterloo's intellectual property (IP) policy means that everything you create is yours to keep

Research areas

  • Algorithms and Complexity
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Bioinformatics
  • Computer Algebra and Symbolic Computation
  • Computer Graphics
  • Cryptography, Security and Privacy
  • Databases
  • Formal Methods
  • Health Informatics
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Information Retrieval
  • Machine Learning
  • Programming Languages
  • Quantum Computing
  • Scientific Computing
  • Software Engineering
  • Systems and Networking

Program overview

Department/School: David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science  
Faculty: Faculty of Mathematics
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April), Spring (May - August)
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Master's, Research
Length of program: 24 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Thesis, Master's Research Paper

Application deadlines

  •  December 1 (for admission in September of the following year)
  •  June 1 (for admission in January of the following year)
  •  October 1 (for admission in May of the following year)

Key contacts

Computer Science Graduate Office

Cheryl Lao

Cheryl is conducting an exciting master’s project that combines human–computer interaction studies with computer graphics research. Her work, which is both technically ambitious and visionary, targets fundamental challenges for the future technology of virtual reality and spatial augmented reality interfaces.

Cheryl Lao, Computer Science, Masters

Supervisors

  • Review the finding a supervisor resources
  • Before applying to the program, students are strongly advised to establish contact with potential supervisors

Admission requirements

  • An Honours Bachelor degree in Computer Science or Engineering (or equivalent degree) with at least a 78% standing.

Degree requirements

  • Review the degree requirements in the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree

Application materials

  • Resume
  • Supplementary information form (SIF)
    • The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion

  • Transcript(s)

  • References
    • Three references are required; at least two academic
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 93 (writing 22, speaking 22), IELTS 6.5 (writing 6.0, speaking 6.5)

Tuition and fees