computer science masters: Windsor vs Concordia

[sajjadfx]

i got accepted to the masters programs in computer science at both Windsor and Concordia for the upcoming fall semester, consequently facing a dilemma that has left me puzzled for the past couple of days. these are some things that you should know:
1. i will be an international student
2. Concordia picked me for the Applied computer science program. i wanted thesis option, since i want to go for a PhD in the future.
3. Windsor picked me for the thesis option and offered me a full tuition waiver
4. i already obtained my CAQ for Concordia, so the visa process for both of them will be almost identical

given the scenario, which one would you suggest and why?

thanks in advance.

[Vermette]

I am currently a Masters student at Windsor, though I am a local. Can I ask what area(s) you are interested in?

[sajjadfx]

thanks, Vermette, for taking you time to reply.
and the answer to your question is: computer systems, computer grids, distributed systems etc. operating systems fascinate me as well, especially Unix and Unix like ones.

[jernst]

I don't know much about either schools in terms of reputation for CS, but that is something you will want to consider. You will also want to take into account advisors (if you have been assigned one already at the schools otherwise potential advisors). You want one you get along with and one that will push you to do good work. Also the reputation of the advisor in their field can be important. (look for how many papers they are publishing, whether they are in IEEE, ACM and other good publishers, see if they are active and involved in conferences, review committees etc, whether they have NSERC or other large funding agencies supporting them or their lab).

Related to vermette's comment, you will also want to consider whether the school has much (or good) research in the areas you are interested in. In my experience it is better if there are many students and professors at the school working in the area you like because it will enable good opportunities for collaborations and it will be a good environment for research.

Lastly, the funding issue is another one to consider. You don't want to have to work during your masters if you can avoid it. (I know from experience). The more time you can put into your work the better.

[Vermette]

Grid Computing is not my area (I'm in AI), but I know it is an active topic in our department with a larger number of students. Can I assume it's one of the reasons you're looking at my school?