Dr. Donald Acton

Professor

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Biography

Donald Acton is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Computer Science at the University of British Columbia. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science in 1982, followed by a Master's Degree in 1985 and a Ph.D. in 1994, all from the University of British Columbia. He has held several key positions in the tech industry, including roles at Glenayre Electronics and Microtel Pacific Research. Donald founded the Network Software Group, Inc. and served as a Senior Software Architect at Open Text Corporation. His research interests are focused on the challenges and opportunities presented by the proliferation of faster and cheaper computers alongside widespread network availability, particularly in the area of distributed computing. His work has concentrated on designing and building system infrastructure to support the development and deployment of reliable and scalable distributed applications. Donald has been involved in academic teaching and lecturing for numerous years, contributing to the growth of the Computer Science curriculum.

Research Interests

Distributed Computing Reliable Scalable Distributed Applications

Experience

Member Technical Staff

— Present

Glenayre Electronics • Canada

Member Technical Staff

— Present

Microtel Pacific Research • Canada

Sessional Lecturer

— Present

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, Canada

Senior Software Architect

— Present

Open Text Corporation • Canada

Courses

Introduction to Computer Networking Computer Hardware Operating Systems Advanced Operating Systems Distributed Systems

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.