Do I need to select a supervisor when applying to the program? Is it a must?
This depends on the type of DSAAI program stream you opt for.
Thesis and project streams require a supervisor. The coursework stream does not require a supervisor.
For thesis and project streams, in your application, you must select at least one potential supervisor you would like to work with within your desired research area of interest. See the list of potential supervisors here: DSAAI Faculty.
DSAAI Faculty have access to all applications. If the faculty member(s) listed in your application decide not to accept you as their student, then your file will be open to all DSA faculty members for consideration. The DSA degree designation (M.A.Sc, M.Eng, M.C.S, M.I.T, M.Sc) is determined by the home unit of the supervisor. If you accept the supervision of a faculty member in a different department than the one you applied, you will be required to change your DSA degree designation. This will be done internally.