Start dates
Fall 2026
Program length
6 months
Credits
18
Program delivery
Online, On-campus* *Based on program availability
Your path to the Master of Computer Science
Bridge the gap for entry into the Master of Computer Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence program.
Applicants to the Master of Computer Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence (MCS AAI) program who do not meet the admission requirements may qualify for entry into the MCS Bridge Program.
This program will be a possibility for applicants who:
- Have backgrounds in mathematics and computer science, but do not hold an undergraduate degree in computer science
or
- Have an undergraduate degree with a CGPA below 3.00, but above 2.67 (on a 4.33 scale)
These academic bridging courses also give students an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the academic environment and expectations at UNF, allowing them to smoothly transition into the MCS AAI program.
Courses
The MCS Bridge Program is completed over the course of two terms and includes six academic bridging courses to prepare students for successful admission to the graduate program.
Computational Mathematics
This course focuses on the study, design, and implementation of algorithms for solving mathematical and scientific problems on computers. Topics include numerical evaluation of integrals, interpolation using splines, sparse and dense linear systems, nonlinear systems, data fitting, and ordinary differential equations. Additional areas of application such as signal processing and image compression will also be explored. Emphasis will be placed on the robustness, accuracy, and efficiency of algorithms, as well as the impact of computer arithmetic and round-off errors. Coursework will involve both theoretical analysis and practical programming tasks.
Design Thinking
Students will apply the Design Thinking process to solve challenges using a human-centered approach. They will learn the principles, philosophy, tools and behaviours of this creative problem-solving framework. In small groups, students will apply the Design Thinking skills (empathizing, defining, ideating, prototyping and testing) to real-world problems with the goal of generating human-oriented solutions. Students will examine the use of research with Design Thinking to promote quality solutions. As well, students will apply their leadership skills to manage the Design Thinking process with small groups
Big Data
In this course, students will gain an understanding what Big Data is and how it has come to be so important in the digital world. Students will examine the sources for Big Data, become conversant with basic terminology, the core concepts of Big Data, and the steps in the Big Data analysis process. Through case studies, students will learn how Big Data Analysis is being used to solve problems and the challenges and benefits it brings in variety of sectors in the digital world.
Principles of Analytics
This course covers the core concepts and applications of analytics in different domains. First part of the course introduces the students to the main concepts and tools of analytics (e.g., data querying and reporting, data access and management, data cleaning, statistical programming, data warehousing, relational databases, and statistical analysis of databases). There are intentional discussions of the social and ethical issues of data analytics (e.g., privacy, confidentiality). The students then apply the principles of descriptive analytics to different domains such as marketing, quality control, public policy and other domains of their interest.
SQL Databases
SQL competency is the single most important skillset for a Data Analyst. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the language of relational databases: Structured Query Language (SQL). Topics covered include: entity-relationship modeling, the relational model, the SQL language: data retrieval statements, data manipulation and data definition statements.
Advanced Computing Foundations
This course provides in-depth insight into advanced concepts regarding the principles and practicalities of algorithm design and analysis, programming methodologies, complex data structures, compilers, environment analysis, computation, and complexity. Through case studies and hands-on labs, students examine applications in contemporary programming languages. Covered topics encompass intricate programming logic, algorithm design, data structures, runtime program behavior monitoring, and memory access concerns.
MCS Bridge Program explained
Timeline
These academic bridging courses need to be completed over the course of two terms, delivered over two 12-week periods.
Course content
Each course will have a syllabus that will be made available at the start of the term, it will outline all required projects, assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Delivery modes
These academic bridging courses are currently offered in two modalities, on-campus and online. The information on this page refers to the on-campus delivery. To learn more about the online program, visit the MCS Bridge Program.
Flipped classroom
MCS Bridge Program classes use the flipped classroom method, where students complete all the course readings prior to attending the class, and the classroom time is used to create active engagement of the learner with the course concepts. This method puts the learner at the center of the learning process and is more engaging in comparison to the traditional lecture style of teaching.
Schedule
These academic bridging courses are delivered in 2+2 model currently. This means for each course, students spend two hours studying the materials made available to them on the learning management system on a weekly basis. This prepares the student for the upcoming two hours, per course, they will spend in class with their faculty and peers engaging in team-based exercises that requires critical thinking, problem solving, and active application of the course concepts.
Admissions
Academic information
Applicants must meet the following minimum conditions for admission:
Bachelor’s degree: Completion of a recognized undergraduate degree equivalent to the four-year honours degree standard with a minimum 2.67 GPA, including at least one course in each of these subjects: quantitative methods, computer programming, and calculus. Applicants must meet the English language proficiency requirements.
Application process
Applicants seeking admission to the MCS AAI program at UNF who do not meet the entrance requirements will be notified if they are eligible for these academic bridging courses. Applicants cannot apply directly to the MCS Bridge Program.
Tuition information
Choosing to pursue a university education is a big commitment that impacts every aspect of your life – including your finances. Our fees are determined by the total cost of individual credits per academic year. All fees are listed in Canadian dollars and these rates are subject to change.
$4,800.06
Domestic tuition
$12,006
International tuition
Frequently asked questions
What are academic bridging courses?
Academic bridging courses are designed to help students bridge the gap between their current credentials and the specific requirements for admission into their program of choice, in this case the Master of Computer Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence.
What will the average week look like for MCS Bridge Program students?
Students will have two hours of classes per subject, each week.
What is the timeline for progression into a master’s program?
After successful completion of these academic bridging courses, students can begin their master’s program. We aim to issue unconditional offers immediately after grades are received from the academic areas at the end of the term.
What are the assessment methods for the MCS Bridge Program?
Students are assessed using a variety of methods such as case studies, projects, reports, presentations, discussions, quizzes, exams etc. The assessments are spread out throughout the term to give students the opportunity of ongoing feedback, improving retention, encouraging consistent effort, and encouraging participation.
How does a student successfully transition to the master’s program?
Students are required to take six undergraduate courses of three credits each, for a total of 18 credits. They are required to obtain a GPA of 3.0 to successfully complete the program and transition to MCS AAI program.
Will students receive a certificate upon completion of the MCS Bridge Program?
Since the MCS Bridge Program is not an accredited program, it does not provide a formal credential upon completion, nor is it noted on the transcript as a completed program—only the individual academic bridging courses completed are listed.
Will students receive a full refund for the master’s program if they are unsuccessful in the MCS Bridge Program?
Yes, students will qualify for a refund of unused monies on their student account, subject to the terms and conditions of our refund policy.
If a student fails the MCS Bridge Program, can they redo the unit they failed or must they retake the whole program?
The program consists of six individual courses. Students are allowed to retake any course they did not successfully complete, up to four times, in accordance with academic policies.
Why choose UNF?
UNF is committed to innovative education and research for a digital world. This technology-centred approach puts you, the student, first. Learn from industry leaders and experienced faculty, gain experience through work-integrated learning components, and build a foundation that sets you on the path for success.
Contact your Student Advisor
Schedule an appointment with your dedicated Student Advisor at a time that’s convenient for you.
This institution has been granted a consent by the Minister of Colleges and Universities to offer this program for a five-year term starting June 12, 2025. Prospective students are responsible for satisfying themselves that the program and the degree will be appropriate to their needs (e.g., acceptable to potential employers, professional licensing bodies or other educational institutions.)
