specify the subfield I want to work in application?

[HappyCat13]

Is it a good idea to specify a computing subfield in your application? I had many research records in database side and thought that it is an advantage for me to say that I want to work on databases.

I applied mostly to Canadian schools and I suddenly found that u of McGill and u of Victoria has very small group in database research. I'm wondering if saying interests in database would limit myself.

I'm also interested in artificial intelligence, personally. But besides some fundamental courses in AI, I don't have much to say about it.

Should I specify a subfield which I have strong past records, or just say I want to do generic algorithm-intensive Comp sci research? I am wondering if saying something too generic will make adcomm think that you aren't focused.

[ssk2]

What are you applying for? A PhD or a Master's? It's OK to be less focused in your application for a Master's course - not for a PhD.

[HappyCat13]

Hi, I am applying research based Master in Canada. Because most Canadian schools don't allow undergraduate to.directly apply PhD.

I'm just concerned that saying that I'm interested in many subfields in computer science would make professor think that I am not a serious applicant. What would be your opinions?