An original research work means you have developed a new methodology or improved an existing literature and added some uniqueness to it. . A project work usually uses the existing literature and methodologies and do not add any uniqueness to it. In case of course based master's program, usually a project is required, and in case of master of science, a unique research ( thesis ) is required. Just for your information
Yes, I'm aware. However, note that no engineering school actually lets you write just a thesis in Bachelors - at least in the UK. I had to make something and then write a report. Truthfully, my project wasn't even looked at and my entire credit was based on the report. Also, most universities are very well aware that original research is very rare in Bachelors. In fact, even a masters level thesis is not required to present original results - based on what I've read. So, not to bolster my own profile or anything, I think a candidate with original work during a Bachelors would be an exceedingly gifted individual and would probably be applying to Ivy League schools.
Just my 2 cents.
No, I guess your final year project was Thesis base and not research though sometimes Thesis need some research before it can be written.. but I think its Thesis base
However, to the best of my knowledge, your profile is impressive as that is already worthy of an attention, I think your work experience is good enough also but it would be best if you contact your prospect DLI to actually know the importance they hold in research works before granting an admission or seeking more information(if its for you to quickly put something together to show your research work) because in a literally point, most Canada schools(department) requires either a previous work on Thesis or Research
Though you can also decide to talk about reasons for not having a research work when writing your letter of intent
Thank you. I have already applied (final apps in late January) and I'm just hoping I get an offer from a good school. In my SOP for the schools I wrote extensively about the projects I managed [all related to the specialization I seek], I talk about 3-4 projects. My heart is in research and not a course based degree. But if I don't have an option I will take up an offer from a course based program and then try to switch once I'm there.
Only thing I didn't do that I can improve upon next time (writing here for other readers):
1) I did not contact any potential supervisors until December/January and i think it was a little too late by then. I didn't get any responses but generally international students rarely get responses due to funding etc. If I have to do it, I will focus on this aspect a lot more and be a bit persistent (but gentle) with potential supervisors
2) My degree is from the UK and are my referees. The culture in the UK is to write brief and succinct letters of recommendation whereas in Canada and United States, they expect the letter to say a little about your character. If I have to do it again - I really hope I don't this is the single most stressful part of applying - I would try to explain to my referees to elaborate a bit on my achievements/awards.
3) I cannot gain any meaningful research experience (i.e. actually publish something) in a year so it is a moot point. But this is clearly a very valuable aspect of one's application.
4) I do not know if Canadian schools take into account 'knowledge atrophy' as years pass by in an employment but if they do perhaps a good GRE would mitigate this but generally in Canada.
