Simon Fraser University

What you'll study

The MSc at Simon Fraser University is centred on supervised research and advanced coursework. While specific modules depend on the department and research group, common components include a combination of:

• Research project and thesis: an original research project conducted under the supervision of a faculty member, culminating in a written thesis and an oral defence or examination.
• Advanced core topics: seminars and lecture courses that provide depth in the chosen discipline (for example, advanced molecular biology, computational methods, machine learning, numerical methods, geoscience processes, or applied statistics).
• Research methods and professional skills: courses or workshops on experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, ethics, and reproducible research practices.
• Electives and special topics: opportunity to take elective courses across departments to support interdisciplinary research (for instance, taking computer science courses to support computational biology research or statistics courses to support environmental modelling).
• Seminars and journal clubs: regular seminar series and group meetings to present results, receive feedback and remain current with literature in the field.

Program structure varies by faculty: some units offer a primarily thesis-based MSc, while others include a course-based option with a smaller research component. Students normally assemble a supervisory committee, agree a programme of study and milestones (such as candidacy or progress reports), and complete degree requirements under departmental regulations.

Entry requirements

Admission to an MSc programme at Simon Fraser University typically requires:

• Academic credentials: a four-year bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, normally with strong grades. Applicants with a three-year degree may need additional preparation or a qualifying year depending on the department.
• Research preparation: evidence of research experience is strongly preferred — this can include an undergraduate honours thesis, research assistantship, laboratory experience, or relevant industry projects.
• Supervision: many programmes expect applicants to identify and secure a prospective supervisor before applying or to demonstrate fit with faculty research interests.
• Supporting documents: academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests or intent, and letters of reference (usually two or three) that can speak to academic and research potential.
• English language proficiency: for applicants whose first language is not English, an approved English language test or equivalent evidence of proficiency is required per university policy.

Some departments may request supplementary materials (samples of written work, GRE scores in certain fields, or an initial research proposal). Meeting minimum criteria does not guarantee admission; selection is competitive and based on fit with available supervisors and departmental priorities.

Career prospects

Graduates of SFU MSc programmes go on to a wide range of careers depending on their discipline and specialisation. Typical paths include:

• Academic research: progression to doctoral programmes and research careers in universities and research institutes.
• Industry R&D: roles in biotechnology, software and information technology, environmental consulting, energy, manufacturing, and high-tech engineering firms.
• Data and quantitative roles: positions as data scientists, analysts, or machine learning engineers where advanced quantitative and computational skills are valued.
• Government and policy: scientific or technical positions in government agencies, regulatory bodies, and national laboratories.
• Entrepreneurship and consulting: opportunities to commercialise research, join start-ups, or work in specialised technical consulting.

The research training, problem-solving abilities and communication skills developed during the MSc are widely transferable and valued by employers across sectors.

Why study at Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University offers MSc students access to research-active departments, interdisciplinary research centres and well-equipped laboratories across its campuses. SFU has strong connections to the Pacific Northwest technology and science ecosystem, providing opportunities for collaboration with industry partners, government agencies and community organisations.

Students benefit from experienced faculty supervisors, regular seminar series, and professional development resources through the university’s graduate studies office. Graduate funding mechanisms, scholarships and teaching or research assistantships are commonly available to support students while they complete their research.

Finally, SFU’s location close to a major metropolitan area gives students access to a broad network of employers, research institutes and conferences, while still enjoying the university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and student-centred supervision.