Computational Media Design

Master of Science (MSc)

Thesis-based program

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Are you a creative thinker with a passion for art and technology? Do you refuse to be bound by convention? Computational Media Design is a leading-edge program designed for students innovating at the intersection of art, music, dance, drama, design and computer science. This research-based degree is offered jointly through the Department of Computer Science; School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape; and Department of Art, Department of English, and School of Creative and Performing Arts, Faculty of Arts. In the expanding world of multimedia and design, there is an increasing need for graduates who are equipped to handle complex projects that combine computing expertise with the creative energies of artists and designers. The CMD program prepares students to answer this emerging need. Admission is highly competitive, and only the most promising applicants are selected.

Completing this program

Research Methodology Course: This course can be from Architecture, Planning and Landscape, Computer Science, Art, Dance, Drama, English or Music.
Additional Courses: One graduate-level course from Architecture, Planning and Landscape, Art, Dance, Drama, English or Music and two additional graduate-level courses.
Computer Science: A graduate course in Computer Science (in addition to the research methodology course).
Thesis: Students are required to submit a research proposal, and submit and defend an original research thesis.

Outcomes

Companies whose primary business is game design and development, film, TV, web design, simulation, training, networking, interactive media, public displays, and mobile and wearable computing. Interest in our graduates also comes from the creative fields of dance, music, theatre and the visual arts.

A master’s degree in computational media design will give you the pre-requisite for a PhD.

Thesis-based program

Students are required to prepare a thesis and successfully defend in an open oral defense.

Courses

Five courses

Learn more about program requirements in the Academic Calendar

Classroom delivery

Time commitment

Two years full-time; four years maximum

Supervisor

Co-Supervision is required

Fees and funding

See the Graduate Calendar for information on fees and fee regulations, and for information on awards and financial assistance.

GPA

A minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 point system, over the past two years of full-time study (a minimum of 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units) of the undergraduate degree.

Minimum education

Four year baccalaureate degree, preferably in Computer Science, Art, Dance, Drama, Design, or Music. Background in two areas is preferred.

Work samples

A portfolio of up to 10 examples of research and creative work. Any combination of academic publications/reports, images, video, audio, musical scores, documentation of installations, written works. URL can be provided if upload isn't possible via application system.

Documents

One-page statement of interest (not a research proposal) in an area of interdisciplinary research of computer science alongside art, dance, drama, design, or music
A C.V.

Reference letters

Two reference letters from within the 12-month period prior to application.

Test scores

None

English language proficiency

An applicant whose primary language is not English may fulfill the English language proficiency requirement in one of the following ways:

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL ibt) score of 105.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 7.5 (minimum of 7.0 in each section)
Pearson Test of English (PTE) score of 59, or higher (Academic version).
Canadian Academic English Language test (CAEL) score of 70 (minimum 70 in each section)
Academic Communication Certificate (ACC) score of A- in each course.
Cambridge C1 Advanced or Cambridge C2 Proficiency minimum score of 200.
Duolingo English Test and obtaining a minimum score of 145* (with no sub-score below 125*). (temporary until Fall 2024 intake)

Deadlines

For admission on September 1:

Canadians and permanent residents: Jan. 1 application deadline
International students: Jan. 1 application deadline

For admission on January 1:

Canadians and permanent residents: Sept.23 application deadline
International students: Sept.23 application deadline

If you're not a Canadian or permanent resident, or if you have international credentials, make sure to learn about international requirements