Align MS in Computer Science Online —Canada
Break into computer science with Align MS in Computer Science Online – Canada, no prior experience required. Study in a flexible online program with two Vancouver residencies that build community, skills, and connections. Learn from industry-connected faculty, add an optional paid co-op or internship, and step into Canada’s thriving tech market.
Program highlights
Start term
Spring admission
Modality
Online; two short, in-person residencies in Vancouver
Pace
Full- and part-time options
Experience
Optional paid co-op or internship, online or in person
Career prospects and top employers
Canada’s tech sector is expanding across artificial intelligence, cloud, gaming, visual effects, and clean tech. There’s a huge demand for highly skilled computer scientists. More than half of Canadian IT departments are grappling with skills gaps in AI, ML, and automation. Meanwhile, AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity skills are driving 28–35% salary increases in Canadian tech jobs (Robert Half, Canada Tech and IT Salary Trends, 2025). You can learn these in-demand skills in the Align program.
Align graduates move into roles like software engineer, full-stack developer, data scientist, and cloud/security engineer. Khoury College aligns coursework with industry needs and connects students to a network of 800+ employer partners across North America, including Canadian organizations such as Amazon, Microsoft Canada Inc., TELUS, SAP, EA, RBC, Clio, and more. Our students bring a unique background, and Align enables them to use it to make a real-world impact.
What makes Align different
- Built for non-computer science majors. Start with graduate-level bridge courses that meet you where you are.
- Supportive cohort model. Learn with peers from 150+ academic backgrounds.
- Two short Vancouver residencies. Build relationships, get in-person guidance, and apply skills to real-world projects — travel, room, and board for the residency components are included in tuition.
- Experiential edge. Add an optional paid co-op or internship to gain professional computer science experience before you graduate.
- Canada-ready. Prepare for roles in Canada’s high-growth tech markets.
How the Align program works
- Bridge (two semesters): Build core CS fundamentals through asynchronous online courses with optional live sessions, plus two short, in-person Vancouver residencies.
- MSCS coursework: Advance into algorithms, systems, software, and specialized electives. Continue fully online or transition to in-person study at the Vancouver campus.
- Optional co-op/internship (4–8 months): Apply your skills in a paid role — remote or on-site — supported by Khoury College’s career team.
- Final MSCS courses: Finish strong with advanced topics and a professional portfolio.
Flexibility and connections that work for you
Keep work and life on track. Courses are online and designed for busy professionals. Residencies are short and purposeful, focused on collaboration, practical tools, and industry-relevant projects. Faculty at Khoury College are experienced educators who love teaching computer science to beginners and connecting your learning to opportunities.
Learning outcomes
The Align MS in Computer Science Online – Canada will equip you with technical knowledge and career preparation. As a graduate, you will:
- Exhibit proficiency in the design, implementation, and testing of software
- Demonstrate skills and experience working in small teams
- Apply algorithmic and theoretical computer-science principles to solve computing problems from a variety of application areas
- Demonstrate the ability to learn and develop competencies in specialized or emerging computer science fields
Student perspective
Katie Lowen
For a time, Katie Lowen was touring internationally as a contemporary dancer. But when the pandemic closed down theaters, she sought another avenue to develop herself. Now, earning her master’s in computer science through the Align program in Vancouver, Katie finds herself immersed in a career path she’d never imagined.
Meet our faculty
Get to know the engaged, experienced professors who are here to support you every step of the way.
Applications, admissions, and accreditation
Deadline: December 1 for spring admission
How to apply
The Align Apply page has everything you need to know about applying to the Align MS in Computer Science Online – Canada program at Khoury College, including:
- Align admissions requirements
- Timelines and deadlines
- Resources and contact information
Degree costs
Visit Student Financial Services for current tuition and fee information, and to find tools and calculators to help you estimate the cost of your degree, based on 44 required semester hours.
Financial support
Pursuing a master’s degree is a significant investment in your future. Northeastern University and Khoury College of Computer Sciences are here to help support you in any way we can. From financial aid to scholarship opportunities to co-op placements and teaching assistantships, there are multiple options to help fund your degree as you work toward your goals.
Accreditation
This program is offered under the written consent of the Minister effective May 9, 2024, having undergone a quality assessment process and been found to meet the criteria established by the Minister. Nevertheless, prospective students are responsible for satisfying themselves that the program and the degree will be appropriate to their needs (for example, acceptable to potential employers, professional licensing bodies, or other educational institutions).
The term “university” is used under the written consent of the Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills effective May 9, 2024, having undergone a quality assessment process and been found to meet the criteria established by the Minister.