Memorial University of Newfoundland is launching a trio of new master’s degree programs in September aimed at filling talent gaps in the fields of software development, artificial intelligence and data science.

The university senate and board of regents -- board of directors -- signed off on the new programs last week, according to a release by the Gazette, which is Memorial’s official news site.

“Our faculties of Science, and Engineering and Applied Science, are uniquely positioned to bring academic expertise, a wealth of research experience and a unique understanding of the province’s industry needs to support important areas of our economy like the high-tech sector,” Memorial President Vianne Timmons said in the Gazette.

All three programs will be course-based, as opposed to research or work-based.

The new degree offerings come as Atlantic Canada’s innovation sector grapples with a shortage of qualified workers, which many startup founders have described as an obstacle to scaling their companies.

The Gazette said enrolment in Memorial’s undergraduate computer science and computer engineering programs has nearly tripled over the last five years, offering a pipeline of potential master’s students.

Prospective students can find application instructions here and the Gazette said more information about the programs will be posted here in the coming weeks.