Masters in Computer Science

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Computer Science enables students to deepen their understanding in the Computer Sciences after completion of the Bachelor's degree, enhancing their marketability for prospective employers.

Graduates with a Master's degree in Computer Science would qualify for job opportunities in several areas:

In addition to these and other job opportunities, graduates who wish to progress to a Ph.D. in Computer Science will have a solid foundation of coursework and a good exposure to Computer Science research. 

 

Curriculum (33 Credit Hours)

Core Courses (6 Credits)

All students in the M.S. in Computer Science program must take  and 

Concentration (12 Credits)

Students, when applying to the program, choose one of three options:

Applied Computer Science

This option focuses on theoretical and practical considerations in mainstream computer science. It features the following courses:


Artificial Intelligence and
Machine Learning

This option focuses on computational aspects of AI and ML algorithm design. It features the following courses:

Software Engineering

This option provides an in-depth experience in the software development lifecycle. It features the following courses:

Electives (9 Credits)

Students may choose three additional 5xxx courses with advisor approval. No more than 3 courses in the degree’s program of study may be designated 5xx7.

Capstone Experience (6 Credits)

Students must choose one of the following capstone sequences.

Independent Computing Project

This capstone allows students to complete a project under an advisor's mentorship. It includes two required courses:

Software Development Project

This capstone immerses students in a group effort to initiate, design, develop, test, and deliver a software product. It includes two required courses:

Thesis

This capstone allows students to research a topic under an advisor's mentorship.  It includes two required courses:

Additionally, thesis students are encouraged to devote an independent study to their theses.

All students must complete a presentation to their advisor and committee members at the end of their capstone sequence. Consult with the department for more information about the presentation.

Delivery Format

The M.S.C.S. is an onsite program with some online offerings. In-person and synchronous online course offerings will normally be evening courses.

Admission Criteria

In addition to admission policies established by the Graduate School, all applicants are required to submit the following:

  1. Undergraduate transcripts that show the equivalent of a major in a computing field with an overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
  2. Three letters of recommendation that evaluate the applicant’s academic ability, professional maturity, and communication skills.
  3. A personal essay that discusses the applicant's reason for pursuing the M.S. in Computer Science. 
  4. A curriculum vita, detailing any IT-related work experience.

Additionally, international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency as specified by Graduate School Admission Policies.

Applicants will be evaluated for admission based on evidence of preparedness for graduate study in computer science, as attested to by academic performance and/or professional experience.  As a rule,  this will include a background in programming, including data structures; a background in databases and computer organization; a background in college math, including probability and statistics or calculus; and additional experience related to the concentration of choice: i.e.,

  • for AI/ML, linear algebra
  • for applied computer science, the equivalent of upper-division coursework in systems, database, and/or programming languages
  • for software engineering, the equivalent of an undergraduate course in software engineering

Applicants without sufficient academic or professional experience may be admitted provisionally. Applicants lacking academic preparation may be required to complete (with a B- or higher in each course) undergraduate foundation courses in computer science and mathematics. Related professional experience, such as programming, systems analysis, and/or systems design, may be substituted for some foundation courses. Applicants who do not meet the GPA requirement may be admitted provisionally and must complete their first 9 credit hours in the program of study with a grade of B or higher in each course.

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