COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science (MSc) in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Lakehead University offers two pathways: a thesis-based option and a course-based option, both requiring 5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) for completion. The thesis-based MSc includes four half-courses (2.0 FCEs), a seminar (Engineering 5012, 0.5 FCE), and a thesis (Engineering 5901, 2.5 FCEs). Students are guided by a supervisor and committee, with research culminating in a thesis that critically evaluates and advances knowledge in a specialized area. One course may be substituted with a reading course, a course from another graduate program, or a senior undergraduate course, with approval. In contrast, the course-based MSc includes Engineering 5013 (0.5 FCE), at least 3.0 FCEs in graduate-level engineering electives (2.0 FCE from the approved list), and up to 1.5 FCE in supplemental electives, which can include courses from other graduate programs, senior undergraduate courses, or a 1.0 FCE project (Engineering 5804). Course-based students may apply for a cooperative education placement after meeting academic requirements. Co-op students complete two work terms (Engineering 5994 and 5995), with domestic students eligible for two additional terms (Engineering 5996 and 5997). Co-op placements are arranged in collaboration with the university’s Co-op Office. Students must apply at least one term in advance. A wide range of approved electives is available, covering control systems, microelectronics, digital communications, software engineering, artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductor devices, and machine learning. Students in the thesis stream must also register for a placeholder thesis course (Engineering 9901) each term. The program is designed to build both theoretical and practical expertise, enabling students to contribute meaningfully to research and industry in fields such as communications, computing, control, electronics, and software systems.