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Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia
11 June 2026 program

Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia

It requires a 4-year bachelor’s degree with a minimum B+ average (around 76% at UBC) and allows students to specialize in areas such as Biomedical Technologies, Communications, Computer Systems, and Energy Systems. 

In this guide, you’ll learn more about the program structure, research areas, eligibility and admissions requirements, tuition and funding, and career outcomes after completing a MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UBC. 

Why Choose a Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UBC? 

Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia is ideal for students aiming to build deep technical expertise through research.  

The program combines rigorous academics with hands-on research, preparing graduates to work on both current technologies and future innovations. 

Key Reasons to Choose UBC MASc in ECE:  

  • Research-driven program: A thesis-based degree where students work closely with faculty on real research problems, from industry applications to emerging fields like quantum and nanotechnology.  

  • Wide range of specializations: Explore areas such as Biomedical Technologies, Communications, Computer Systems, Energy Systems, and Nano-technologies.  

  • Strong research ecosystem: Backed by a large ECE department with 75+ faculty members and active collaborations across disciplines and industry.  

  • Advanced labs and facilities: Access to modern research labs and tools for hands-on experimentation and innovation.  

  • High graduation success rate: A 97.6% completion rate, reflecting strong academic support and guidance.  

  • Global and interdisciplinary exposure: Study alongside a diverse student community and work on projects that intersect with fields like medicine, science, and industry.  

  • Funding opportunities: Many students receive financial support, including research assistantships and departmental funding. 

Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Program Overview at UBC 

Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia is a research‑based, thesis‑focused graduate program offered through UBC’s Faculty of Applied Science at the Vancouver campus.  

The program combines advanced coursework with original research under close faculty supervision. 

Below is a consolidated overview of the MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering program at UBC:  

Program Aspect 

Details 

Degree Awarded 

Master of Applied Science (MASc) 

Mode of Delivery 

In person, on campus 

Campus Location 

UBC Vancouver 

Average Time to Completion 

3.2 years 

Graduation Rate 

97.6% 

Total Enrolled Students 

116 students 

FirstYear Tuition (International) 

CAD 10,081.65 (INR 6.97L) 

Median Funding Support 

CAD 32,575 per year (INR 22.5L) for 50% of students in the first two years  

 

Research Areas and Focus Areas in the MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UBC 

Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia offers diverse research opportunities across both core and emerging engineering domains.  

Students work on projects ranging from industry-ready technologies to early-stage innovations, depending on their specialization and faculty supervision. 

Below are the official research areas available within the MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UBC: 

Research Area 

Focus Description 

Biomedical Technologies 

Engineering solutions for healthcare, including medical devices and biomedical systems 

Communications Systems 

Communication networks, signal processing, and wireless technologies 

Computer and Software Systems 

Computing systems, software design, and advanced algorithms 

Energy Systems 

Power generation, transmission, and sustainable energy solutions 

Micro- and Nano-Technologies 

Micro-scale and nano-scale materials, devices, and fabrication technologies 

 

Nature of Research in the MASc Program 

MASc students conduct original research under close supervision from faculty members who lead active and distinguished research programs.  

Depending on the specialization, students may: 

  • Work on technologies that are already close to commercial application 

  • Contribute to early‑stage research in rapidly evolving fields such as new materials, advanced computing systems, and next‑generation engineering solutions 

  • Collaborate across disciplines, including connections with medicine, science, and industry partners 

Eligibility Requirements for the Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UBC 

Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia is highly competitive and evaluated jointly by the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies and the ECE department. 

Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee admission, as applications are assessed holistically

Academic Eligibility for UBC MASc in ECE 

Applicants must meet the following academic requirements: 

  • A 4-year bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field  

  • A related degree must include substantial coursework in ECE domains  

  • A minimum B+ average (around 76%)  

  • A strong academic profile with evidence of research potential is preferred  

  • Admissions are competitive, not guaranteed based on minimum scores  

Applicants from India and other countries must also meet UBC’s credential equivalency standards. 

English Language Requirements for UBC MASc in ECE 

Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency if their previous education was not in English: 

  • TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 100  

  • Reading: 22 | Writing: 21 | Speaking: 21 | Listening: 22  

  • IELTS Academic: Overall band of 7.0  

  • Minimum 6.0 in each section  

  • Scores must be valid within the last 24 months  

  • Test scores must be submitted through official agencies  

Note: GRE is not required for admission to this program. 

How to Apply for the Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia? 

Applying to the Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia involves submitting academic records, research-focused documents, and referee details through the university’s graduate admissions portal. 

Since this is a thesis-based program, applicants must clearly demonstrate research intent and alignment with faculty expertise. 

Here is the step-by-step procedure for MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UBC: 

Step 1: Submit Academic Transcripts 

Applicants must provide transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. 

  • Transcripts are required for all previous academic studies  

  • Submission format varies based on whether the institution is within or outside Canada  

  • Applicants should carefully follow UBC’s document submission guidelines  

Step 2: Arrange Letters of Reference 

References play a key role in evaluating academic and research potential. 

  • Three (3) references are required  

  • Can be academic or professional, depending on profile  

  • Must be submitted electronically through UBC’s system  

  • Choose referees who can highlight research ability, technical skills, and academic performance  

Step 3: Prepare a Statement of Interest 

Applicants are required to submit a Statement of Interest (also called Statement of Intent), which:  

  • Explains academic background and research interests  

  • Highlights career goals and program fit  

  • Helps demonstrate alignment with UBC’s research areas and faculty  

Step 4: Identify Potential Thesis Supervisors 

As a research-based program, students work under a faculty supervisor. 

  • A supervisor is required during the program  

  • No prior confirmation needed before applying  

  • Applicants can indicate preferred faculty members in the application  

  • Contacting faculty is recommended but not mandatory  

  • Final selection depends on research fit and faculty availability  

Step 5: Citizenship Verification (If Applicable) 

Additional documentation may be required based on applicant status: 

Canadian permanent residents must submit a clear copy of both sides of the PR card 

Application Deadlines for Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia  

The Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia follows fixed intake cycles with strict application deadlines.  

Applicants must ensure that their applications are complete and submitted on time, as late or incomplete applications are not considered. 

MASc Intake and Application Deadline at UBC 

Here are the key details for the upcoming admission cycle: 

  • Program: Master of Applied Science (MASc) in Electrical and Computer Engineering  

  • Intake Term: January 2027  

  • Application Deadline: 1 June 2026 (same for Canadian and international applicants) 

Important Deadline Notes 

  • A single common deadline applies to both Canadian and international applicants 

  • Applications must be fully completed by the deadline, including:  

  1. Academic transcripts 

  1. Letters of reference 

  1. Statement of Interest 

  1. Citizenship verification documents (if applicable) 

As a research‑based and thesis‑focused program, admission decisions are also influenced by: 

  1. Academic evaluation 

  1. Alignment between applicant research interests and faculty expertise 

  1. Availability of faculty thesis supervisors 

Applicants are encouraged to begin preparation well in advance to allow sufficient time for documentation, references, and research alignment. 

Scholarships and Financial Support for the MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UBC 

The Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia offers strong financial support, aligned with its research-intensive, thesis-based structure.  

Funding is provided through a mix of departmental support, research assistantships, and faculty funding. 

Funding Support Overview:  

Here’s a snapshot of typical funding for MASc students: 

  • Around 50% of students receive CAD 32,575 (INR 22.5 lakh) or more per year  

  • Funding is generally provided for the first two years  

  • Amounts are quoted before tuition and fees  

Nature of Funding in the MASc Program 

Financial support may come from multiple sources: 

  • Departmental funding packages  

  • Faculty research grants  

  • Research assistantships linked to thesis work  

Funding levels can vary based on: 

  • Research area and project scope  

  • Availability of faculty funding  

  • Academic performance and research alignment 

Career Opportunities After the MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UBC 

The Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia is a research‑intensive degree that prepares graduates for advanced engineering, research, and technical innovation roles.  

Because the program emphasizes original research, many graduates pursue careers that involve problem‑solving, system design, and technology development across industry, research organizations, and academia. 

Career Pathways for MASc Graduates 

Graduates of the MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering commonly pursue roles such as: 

  • Electrical Engineer 

  • Computer Engineer 

  • Research Engineer 

  • Systems Engineer 

  • Embedded Systems Engineer 

  • Communications Engineer 

  • Power and Energy Systems Engineer 

  • Hardware or Software Development Engineer 

Note: Career pathways depend on the student’s research focus area, thesis work, and technical specialization.   

Research and Academic Career Options 

Given the thesis‑based structure of the MASc program, many graduates also progress into research‑oriented career paths, including: 

  • Research Scientist or Research Associate 

  • Engineering roles within research labs and innovation centres 

  • Progression to a PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering or closely related fields 

The strong focus on research methodology, experimentation, and technical analysis makes the MASc a common pathway to doctoral studies. 

Industry and Applied Research Exposure 

Through close collaboration with faculty supervisors and access to UBC’s research facilities, MASc students develop: 

  • Advanced analytical and technical skills 

  • Experience working on cutting‑edge and early‑stage technologies 

  • The ability to translate research outcomes into real‑world engineering solutions 

These skills are valued by employers seeking engineers who can work at the intersection of research, innovation, and applied technology development. 

LongTerm Professional Value 

The MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UBC equips graduates with: 

  • Deep technical specialization 

  • Strong research and problem‑solving capabilities 

  • Experience working on complex engineering systems 

This foundation supports long‑term career growth in technical leadership, research‑driven engineering roles, and advanced innovation environments. 

Conclusion 

The Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia is a research‑focused graduate program well suited for students who want to deepen their technical knowledge through advanced coursework and original thesis research. With close faculty supervision and access to UBC’s strong research ecosystem, the program offers a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied engineering. 

Overall, the MASc at UBC prepares graduates for research‑driven industry roles, advanced engineering careers, or progression to PhD studies, making it a strong choice for students seeking long‑term academic and professional growth in electrical and computer engineering.