BCIT Computing is launching a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Applied Computing, with the first full-time intake starting in September 2025. BCIT Mastercard Chair in Digital Trust Dr. Aaron Hunter tells us about this exciting new program and how it aims to help harness the vast benefits of technology.
Q: What led BCIT Computing to offer the new Master of Science in Applied Computing?
Aaron Hunter (AH): We like to say, ‘All companies are tech companies.’ Across every industry, companies are using computing – or they could be using computing – to solve all sorts of interdisciplinary problems.
At BCIT, we are uniquely positioned to help industry harness the promise of technology. We have a diverse collection of researchers across campus working on advanced computing applications in different areas.
We saw a unique opportunity to educate a new kind of professional with deep computing skills, plus the ability to apply these skills to complex practical problems in different disciplines. This program is about equipping the next generation with the knowledge and vision to lead the future of technology.
“Our MSc grads will be innovative thinkers who focus on using computing in ways that make our lives better.”- Dr. Aaron Hunter, BCIT Mastercard Chair in Digital Trust
Q: How is the industry changing and where does this masters program fit?
AH: Fundamental advances in areas like Machine Learning (ML), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Data Science have changed the game for computing professionals. We are going to see a world where more companies are automating business and industrial processes, not only for efficiency gains but also to expand their capabilities using technological solutions.
The software industry itself is changing too. In the future, we expect to see that a lot of ‘elementary’ programming tasks will be automated. Software development will require professionals with more advanced knowledge to oversee and manage this automation, and to safely deploy new technology. Our Computing Diploma and Bachelor of Science Degree students are already applying many of these skills.
By introducing the MSc in Applied Computing, we are deepening our offering and preparing our department and our grads for the diverse future job market in computing.
Q: What kind of student do you think this new M.Sc. will appeal to?
AH: The program is exciting because it gives students the opportunity to explore truly interdisciplinary research topics. So I think it will appeal to curious students who want to make an impact.
BCIT researchers are working on important problems in many domains. I’m thinking, for example, about Jaimie Borisoff’s work designing technology that promotes accessibility. Or Barry Pointon’s work, analyzing data to understand solar events in faraway galaxies. Or the joint work that Michal Aibin and Eric Saczuk are doing on using drones to fight wildfires.
And this is just a handful of examples. Our MSc students will be able to contribute to real progress in areas like these and many others.
The program also gives students the opportunity to move from ‘how?’ to ‘why?’ Software developers are often focused on how to solve complex problems – looking for solutions that are efficient and effective. But focusing solely on ‘how’ can leave many questions unanswered.
We need computing professionals who can be technical leaders, re-thinking the way we solve problems, and pushing back on our goals in deploying technology. Our MSc grads will be innovative thinkers who focus on using computing in ways that make our lives better.
Learn more about the Master of Science in Applied Computing