Applied Computing at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) - Program overview

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Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Program Overview

The Master of Science Degree in Applied Computing is a full-time program designed to merge computer science with practical applications to address challenges across various sectors. This interdisciplinary curriculum equips students with the necessary skills to tackle complex real-world problems, fostering both technical leadership and the potential for further academic pursuits. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and collaboration, preparing graduates to make significant contributions in their fields.

Program Structure

The Master of Science in Applied Computing is structured to be completed in a full-time duration of two academic years, typically encompassing four 15-week terms. The program includes:

Delivery Mode: In-person classes
Program Length: 2 years (maximum completion time is 5 years)
Total Credits: 30 credits
Intake: September each year

Students can choose between two paths in their second year:

Thesis Path: Involves completing a thesis project.
Project & Internship Path: Includes a one-semester internship and a research project.

Throughout the program, students will engage in core computing courses and have opportunities for directed studies in various application areas, enhancing their knowledge and skills in applied computing.

Featured Experiences

Cohort Model: Students progress through the program as a group, fostering collaboration and networking.
Directed Studies: Opportunities to work with supervisors from different departments to gain specialized knowledge.
Internship Opportunities: Students can undertake internships in external organizations or BCIT labs, applying their skills in real-world settings.
Research Projects: Students can engage in applied research, addressing industry problems and contributing to advancements in the field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Science in Applied Computing can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Software Development Manager: Oversee software development teams, ensuring projects meet technical and business requirements.
Data Scientist: Analyze complex data sets to inform business decisions and develop predictive models.
Cybersecurity Analyst: Protect an organization’s information systems from cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
AI/Machine Learning Engineer: Design and implement AI algorithms and machine learning models to solve specific problems.
Systems Architect: Develop and manage the architecture of IT systems, ensuring they meet organizational needs.

These roles leverage the advanced computing knowledge and practical experience gained through the program, positioning graduates for success in a rapidly evolving job market.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) official website

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Master of Science Degree in Applied Computing, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Competitive entry: Admission is competitive, with preference given to applicants with a combination of academic grades above the minimum and relevant industry experience.
Step 1: Meet the following entrance requirements:
- Post-secondary education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or equivalent, such as BCIT’s Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science, with a minimum GPA of 2.8 out of 4.0 (70%) based on the final 30 credits of undergraduate study.
- Alternate entry: For applicants without a bachelor's degree in computer science, a bachelor's degree in another discipline with a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 (73%) is required, along with significant knowledge of computing through formal education and/or work experience.
- Applicants may need to take bridging courses before being accepted to the program.
Step 2: Department Review: All complete applications will be reviewed by the Graduate Program Committee and ranked competitively.
International applicants: This program is available to international applicants. A valid BCIT study permit is required prior to starting the program. Students must also complete a mandatory work component to qualify for graduation if enrolled in the Project & Internship Path.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

For the Applied Computing program at BCIT, which is a Graduate Studies level program, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following assessments:

English Studies 12 or English First People 12 or Acceptable equivalent high school course - 67%
BCIT English Competency Assessment:
- COMM 0015 – English Competency Assessment and COMM 0033 – English Speaking and Listening Assessment - 70%
BCIT Professional English Language Development (PELD):
- COMM 0030 – Speaking and Listening Skills for EAL Students 2 and COMM 0005 – Technical Communication Skills for EAL Students 4 - 70%
COMM 0007 – Introductory Communication for Technology Entry and COMM 0016 – Communication with ELT - 67%
BCIT Technical Academic English (TAE) 5 (International Student Entry Program - ISEP) - 60%
Articulated EAP courses - 70% or B
3.0 credits of post-secondary English, Humanities, or Social Sciences from an English-speaking institution - 67%
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test - 70 overall band score with no component below 60
Cambridge Assessment English BCIT ISEP Online test (Cambridge Linguaskill) - B2 First or C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with minimum overall score of 176
Duolingo English Test - 120 overall, No integrated subscore less than 95
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (Note: IELTS Academic only) - Overall score 6.5, No band less than 6.0
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) - Overall score 60, No skill score less than 60
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) (BCIT Destination code: 9110) - Overall score 86, No section score less than 20

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!