u/TieInternational4568

Thoughts on MSc EE (Software Engineering Specialization) First Semester Courses

Thoughts on MSc EE (Software Engineering Specialization) First Semester Courses

Hi everyone,

I am going to pursue research-based MSc in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Software Engineering.

My background is in Computer Science, innovation/entrepreneurship, and industry experience in banking, telecom, and IT project management/business analysis.

I’m currently considering these courses for my first semester:

  • ENSF 618: Learning Representations in Deep Neural Networks
  • ENSF 620: Advanced Data Analytics
  • ENSF 621: Software Engineering for AI/ML-Based Systems
  • ENGG 601: Professional Development I

For those who have taken similar courses:

  • Is this workload manageable for a first semester?
  • Which course is usually the heaviest?
  • Would you recommend taking only 3 courses instead?

Would appreciate any advice or experiences. Thanks!

u/TieInternational4568 — 22 hours ago

Study Permit Approved but Eligibility & Background Check Still “In Progress”?

Hi everyone,

My study permit application status was updated to:

“Final decision: Approved. You need to send us your valid passport to finalize your application.”

I also received the passport request letter. However, when I check the application tracker, it still shows:

  • Eligibility review: In progress
  • Background check: In progress

Has anyone experienced the same thing after approval/PPR? Is this normal and just a delay in the system update?

reddit.com
u/TieInternational4568 — 12 days ago

Hi everyone,

I applied for a Canadian study permit (outside Canada) on April 11, 2026 for a thesis-based Master’s in Electrical Engineering (Software Engineering specialization) at the University of Calgary.

Just wanted to share my profile and timeline, and hopefully get some insights from others who’ve gone through a similar process:

Background:

•	2 Bachelor’s degrees: Computer Science + International Studies

•	Master’s in Innovation Management & Entrepreneurship (USA, Fulbright scholar)

•	Admitted to UCalgary with minimum funding, plus my own funds well above IRCC’s requirement

Timeline so far:

•	Apr 11, 2026: Application submitted

•	Apr 17, 2026: Upfront medical passed

•	Apr 22, 2026: Biometrics completed

Everything seems to be moving, but I’m currently waiting on the background check phase.

Questions:

•	How long does the background check usually take for cases like mine?

•	When can I realistically expect a passport request (PPR)?

•	Any recent applicants who can share their timelines?

Appreciate any insights or experiences you can share.

Thanks in advance!

reddit.com
u/TieInternational4568 — 22 days ago