Sample SOP for MS in Computer Science in Canada

Computer science is the study of computers and computational systems.  The two main aspects of this field are mainly to do with hardware and software systems. The use of computer science has been spread out across every industry, especially with the establishment of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and machine learning technology. This article provides an insight into the format of Statement of Purpose  (SOP) for Masters in Science (MS)  in Computer Science in Canada. So, let us start by understanding what an SOP means.

An SOP or statement of purpose is an essay which is a mandatory part of the admission process while applying to universities abroad. The SOP describes the applicant’s intentions with regard to the course he/she has selected and future prospects. Important information like personal and academic backgrounds, achievements, reasons for selecting the course and the university, future goals — all these are included within the SOP. The SOP is a vital part of the admission procedure and should be taken very seriously to secure a seat in a distinguished university abroad. This article will further provide you with the format, guidelines, and other relevant information regarding the SOP for MS in Computer Science in Canada. It is important to note that the top universities in Canada do follow certain procedures. In this article, we will also provide you with the different styles and approaches that are usually incorporated while applying to universities in Canada. 

Systematic description of the SOP structure:  

SOPs are written in a paragraph format so as to maintain consistency in writing within the essay. An SOP is normally written within 800 to 1000 words and provides a crisp but relevant description of the applicant’s intent. 

FORMAT

• Paragraph 1 – Introduction and personal background
• Paragraph 2 – Academic background and achievements
• Paragraph 3 – Expectations from the course and future goals and prospects
• Paragraph 4 – Reasons for choosing this particular course and reasons for applying for a course in Canada
• Paragraph 5 – Conclusion
• Guidelines and Tips
• While writing an SOP, look to provide information that is relevant to the topic.
• Be precise, confident, and hold a formal tone.
• Avoid writing long essays and don’t lie or provide misleading information. This can create a wrong impression of the candidate. In case of specific instructions on fonts, pages, and word count, try and adhere to the specifications.
• Recheck the essay for spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. Get your essay proofread by others and take constructive feedback to improve it.
• Providing anecdotes and personal or professional experiences can make the SOP more interesting. 
• Avoid over-complicated language and sentence construction.

What are universities looking for in an SOP?

• Writing applicability of the candidate.
• Candidate’s academic background and performance.
• The applicant’s personality and attitude towards the course.
• The candidate’s ambition and future prospects.
• The applicant’s justified motivation to join the university and study in that country.
• The choice of ideas and their portrayal in the SOP
• The x-factor making the applicant stand out from the crowd.

Every university might provide specific instructions on the presentation of the SOP. The next section will provide some guidelines that will help in creating an impactful SOP based on the preferences of two of the top Canadian universities.

1. University of Toronto

1. A short bio about yourself mentioning your capabilities and skills.
2. Your understanding of the University’s Computer Science department.
3. How will the course help you in your future prospects?
4. Why should you be considered as a viable candidate?
5. Personal and professional experiences.
6. Naming the faculty member you are interested to work with. 

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

This university requires SOPs to be divided into 2 significant parts.

• Part 1 (Research Interests) – This is a mandatory section.
• Written within 2 pages
• Area of research preferences.
• Educational background, achievements, and professional experiences 
• Training that prepared you for MS at UBC
• Part 2 (Publications) – This is an optional section.
• This section does not have a word limit or page limit.
• Mention the following in reverse chronological order:

1. Conferences
2. Technical reports
3. Published or submitted papers for journals.
4. Code developed
5. Patents and copyrights submitted or awarded.

As you can see, the structure of the SOP is different in both cases. It is extremely important to go through the university guidelines for writing SOPs before you start writing. To create a favorable impact and merit a seat it will be very important to stick to the guidelines provided. 

Sample SOP for MS in Computer Science in Canada:

Computer Science is an indispensable part of modern society that impacts every industry on a global scale. The evolution of technology and computer science has created new avenues for the world to increase productivity and operations and progress towards sustainability. From an early age, I was inclined towards science and technology. Throughout my school years, I always took a special interest in technological development and by the time I was graduating from school, it was crystal clear that my future lies in the domain of Computer Science. 

My induction into the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, for the Computer Engineering course was the beginning of advance learning in computer science. My area of interest during my graduate program was in algorithm development, computer languages, operating systems designs, and software. My graduate program was extremely competitive and challenging, which helped me develop my knowledge base and taught me how to adapt to adverse situations.

From an academic point of view, my performance through my graduation was excellent. I managed to achieve a 9.1 CGPA at the end of my four-year course with an award for excellence in academics. My practical knowledge of the subject makes me an ideal candidate for the course in computer science. 

My main reason for applying to the University of Toronto is that the infrastructural facilities provided by the university are exceptional and will aid in increasing my practical abilities within the domain of computer science. My keen understanding of the subject will allow me to progress within the field. This course will provide me with a platform to build my skills and create new opportunities for the future. I have been well aware of the prestigious University of Toronto and its esteemed faculty. The work that is being done on machine learning techniques and neural networks fascinate me. It would be a great honor to be a part of this institution and work under some of the greatest minds of the 21st Century. 

On a concluding note, I would like to clear my aspiration in creating a wholesome and productive environment for myself so that I can make the most of my time at this prestigious university and progress towards a brighter future. I hope my statement of purpose manages to generate a favorable result and secure me a seat at your esteemed institution. 

An impactful and creative statement of purpose can assure a place in any prestigious institute which can open a multitude of avenues for young and innovative professionals. It is important to clearly understand the task and invest time and effort to create an impactful SOP that grasps the attention of the admission committee.

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