35 Best Master’s in Computer Science

Ranked #14 in the world from 2018 Academic Ranking of World Universities, UW is one of the best. Its belief in “possibility and unshakeable optimism” is seen throughout all its 18 colleges and schools, including the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering, where you will find our top ranking professional master’s degree in computer science that is rigorous yet flexible.

This part-time, evening program includes 40 credits and can be completed in 2.5 years. The majority of students work full time while pursuing this degree and attend class just one evening per week on campus. Notable courses include Programming Language Analysis and Implementation and Computer-Aided Reasoning for Software. Check out the full list here.UW’s PMP program is super competitive. Of more than 120 applicants each year, around 60% are accepted. Typical graduate students possess at least five years of professional experience, a 3.5 undergraduate GPA, and strong GRE scores.  UW offers three application deadlines: July 1, November 1, and February 1. Check out UW’s program video to see if this program is right for you.

Founded in 1868, UC-Berkeley is full of traditions, such as the mythical guardian, the Golden Bear, which became the beloved mascot, Oski the Bear. This highly ranked university includes the notable department of electrical engineering and computer sciences, which attracts exceptional students all over the world who want to focus on research.

The MS in computer science is a small research program for students with research experience. If you are considering a Ph.D. in the future, you could pursue the MS/Ph.D. program in computer science. A huge perk of this program is that you can specialize in one of ten areas:

1. Artificial intelligence
2. Database management systems
3. Education
4. Graphics
5. Human-computer interaction
6. Operating systems and networking
7. Programming systems
8. Scientific computing
9. Security
10. Theory

Each concentration includes professional resources such as workshops, research centers, and of course, award-winning faculty. To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum 3.0 GPA, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation that include your goals, research accomplishments, academic work, leadership skills, etc. Currently, no GRE scores are not required.

Founded in 1867, the University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is a leader in research and inventions, which includes the first graphical web browser by Illinois graduate Marc Andreessen in 1993. Ranked #15 of the best public universities in the country by U.S. News & World Report, Illinois includes 15 colleges, including the Grainger College of Engineering, where you can earn an MS in computer science.

The MS in computer science is a research degree that can be counted towards the university’s Ph.D. in computer science. The program entails 28 credit hours of coursework and four credits of thesis work. You will take courses like Artificial Intelligence, Database and Information Systems, and Theoretical Computer Science.You will have 11 distinct research areas to choose from when working on your master’s thesis, along with a collaborative and supportive community of faculty and classmates. Grainger College recommends that applicants have a bachelor’s degree in either computer science or computer engineering. A minimum GPA of 3.2 is required for admission. You can check out the Prospective Graduate Student Information Web site here.

As the second-largest university in the country, UCLA Angeles’ optimism and drive has inspired  14 Nobel Prizes, 15 Nobel Laureates, 118 NCAA titles, and 261 Olympic medals (UCLA website). You will find our #4 ranking from UCLA’s Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science – a Master of Science in computer science.

In this program, you do not need to select a concentration, but you will take courses from the following fields and tailor your degree to your interests and career goals:

• Artificial intelligence
• Computational systems biology
• Computer science theory
• Computer system architecture
• Graphics and vision
• Information and data management
• Network and software systems

UCLA’s MS program is competitive. You need a bachelor’s in computer science or a related field like electrical engineering, math, statistics, or physics. You also need at least a 3.0 GPA to apply, but the average GPA of admitted students is 3.6. In addition, you need three letters of recommendation, preferably from past professors.

Georgia Tech boasts many rankings, including top computer science programs from U.S. News & World Report and Times Higher Education. The MS in computer science includes three plan of study options and ten specializations to choose from:

• Computer graphics
• Computing systems
• High-performance computing
• Human-computer interaction
• Interactive intelligence
• Machine learning
• Modeling and simulations
• Scientific computing
• Social computing
• Visual analytics

You can pursue one of three options: the course option includes 30 hours of coursework and does not include a project or a thesis. The project option includes 21 credit hours of coursework and a nine-hour project, and the thesis option includes 18 credit hours of coursework and a 12-hour thesis. You can also earn the MS in computer science online.

Applicants should possess core competency in areas such as algorithms, databases, networking, computer architecture, and human-computer interaction. Along with a bachelor’s degree in computer science (or related field), you need to submit GRE scores, a personal statement, and recommendation letters.

Founded in 1883, UT Austin is not only one of the largest schools in the country, but it ranks among the 40 best universities in the world (U.S. News & World Report). With more than 51,000 students from 18 colleges and schools, UT is also one of the most diverse. Established in 1966, UT’s computer science program consistently ranks among the top 10 graduate programs in the country.

The department offers two on-campus master’s degrees in computer science: a MSCS with a thesis and one without. You can also earn this degree online, which is an extra perk. Both plans of study include 30 credit hours and courses in artificial intelligence, computer architecture, computer programming, and diversity areas in theory, systems, and application.

UT’s program is highly selective, and only about 9% of students who apply are admitted. To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA, high quantitative GRE scores, a background in math and computer science, and recommendation letters. Past research experience, projects, internships, and publications are a plus. Check out graduate admission FAQs here.

Founded in 1848, UW-Madison is not only the oldest but the largest public university in Wisconsin. Sixth in the country for research expenditure, UW boasts many firsts, such as the first national stem cell bank in 2005! UW-Madison’s School of Computer, Data, & Information Sciences features a professional master’s program in computer science, and the average starting salary of graduates is $128K per year!

The professional master’s program (PMP) is a terminal degree for working professionals who want to earn a master’s degree part-time. You will complete 30 credit hours while taking two courses per semester and finish in two years. While this program was originally designed as a part-time program, you can take a full-time class load and complete the program sooner.
Most of the CS courses include research-intensive project requirements. Currently, online courses are not available in this program, but they may be available in the future. To apply, submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a CV/resume, and optional GRE scores by March 15 to start in the fall. Check out the detailed requirements for admission here.

The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor boasts many national awards, including #1 in research volume among U.S. public research universities (National Science Foundation). At UM-Ann Arbor, you will find a Master of Science in computer science and engineering (CSE), which serves as a “vibrant and innovative force,” with world-class faculty and students exploring and expanding the field of computer science (UM-Ann Arbor website).

The CSE program includes 30 credit hours and an optional thesis track. You will take at least 24 hours in technical courses and 15 hours in CSE coursework at the 500-level or higher. You may take courses such as Foundations of Computer Vision, Computational Data Science and Machine Learning, and User Interface Development. Check out the comprehensive CSE program guide here.

This program pays off, as CSE graduates work at top companies such as Apple, Google, Microsoft, and NASA. The department requires that applicants have a bachelor’s degree and a strong background in computer science. You also need at least a 3.5 GPA and three strong recommendation letters.

Guess which university established the very first Department of Computer Science in the nation? You guessed it! Purdue University. Established in 1962, Purdue’s computer science department offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, and it’s no surprise that its programs consistently earn national rankings from U.S. News & World Report and The Wall Street Journal.

At Purdue, you can earn a master’s in computer science with either a thesis or non-thesis option and add on a concentration in information security for computing professionals. Whether you choose the thesis or non-thesis option, you will take core courses such as Date Engineering I and II, Operating Systems, and Data Communication and Computer Networks.

The department states that this master’s program takes three or four semesters, and students can take a maximum of four courses each semester and two in the summer. Purdue admission is competitive, and applicants should hold a computer science background with at least a 3.5 GPA in undergraduate work. Currently, GRE scores are not required.

Within walking distance to Washington, D.C., the UM-College Park is Maryland’s flagship university and a top public research school in the country. With more than 41,000 students, 14,000 faculty, and 388,000 alumni, UM-College Park has an academic program for everyone! Tufts School of Engineering provides an “open, friendly, diverse, and collaborative atmosphere” with cutting-edge material.

A benefit to UM’s MS in computer science is that you can complete it on campus or online, with either a full-time or part-time schedule. You can also choose the MS thesis track or the MS project track. This program entails a minimum of ten courses/36 credit hours with at least six courses in computer science and at least two in programming.

Tufts requires that applicants demonstrate core competence in the following areas:

• Computer architecture and assembly language
• Programming languages (specifically, functional programming and object-oriented programming with inheritance)
• Data structures and analysis of algorithms
• Theory of computation

In addition, you need at least a 3.0 in undergraduate work. Currently, due to Covid-19, no GRE scores are required.

Florida Gators are “people of purpose,” and this positive outlook spreads through all UF’s academic programs. Highly ranked by U.S. News and World Report, Forbes, and Kiplinger for research, value, and best overall, it’s no surprise that UF Gators make a difference not just on campus but long after they graduate.

The department of computer and information science and engineering (CISE) emphasizes “theory, design, development, and application of computer systems and information processing techniques” (UF website). UF’s CISE department features a master’s of computer science (engineering) with a thesis or non-thesis track.

This program includes six areas of specialization:

1. Computer systems
2. Database and information systems
3. High-performance computing/applied algorithms
4. Computer graphics, modeling, and art
5. Intelligent systems and computer design
6. Computer systems and security

Both the thesis and non-thesis tracks include 30 credit hours, except six credits from the thesis track are devoted to thesis research and writing. Notable courses include Research Methods for Human-Centered Computing, Malware Reverse Engineering, and Advanced Topics in Data Science. While UF admits students based on a holistic standard, you need at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university. Check out the admission details here.

We know this article is about computer engineering, but we must mention that our #12 ranking, UC Diego, is not only one of the world’s top research universities, it’s home to the Stuart Collection, one-of-a-kind art sculptures, founded in 1981. Seriously impressive! (We will wait while you go check out some of these sculptures!)  

OK, back to computer engineering. The department of computer science and engineering (CSE) features a Master of Science in both computer science and computer engineering through the Jacobs School of Engineering. You’ve got a lot of options here, so listen closely. Both majors are available in three MS plans: the thesis plan, the comprehensive standard plan, or the comprehensive interdisciplinary plan.

Each plan requires 40-48 units of coursework that is divided up into breadth courses (topics outside your area), depth courses (comprehensive topics in your research area), electives, research, and either a thesis or capstone. You can complete this program full-time or part-time. To apply, a bachelor’s in computer science or computer engineering is preferred, although not required.

Welcome to Aggieland, home of Texas A & M – College Station!  Texas A&M was born in 1876 as the state’s first university. Aggieland, home to over 69,000 students, boasts several unique rankings like #1 in the country for study abroad opportunities (Institute of International Education, 2019) and #1 in Texas for best value (Money Magazine, 2019).

The department of computer science and engineering (CSE) at Texas A&M was founded since the university opened in 1876 and is currently the largest college on the campus. The CSE offers two master’s in computer science, and we are focusing on the professional, terminal degree that does not include a thesis, final project, or final exam.
In this program, you will complete 18 credit hours of coursework, three breadth CSCE courses, six hours of non-CSCE courses, a graduate seminar course, and a directed studies course, which total 30 credit hours. Applicants need to submit unofficial transcripts, three recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose. You can apply through the EngineeringCAS application system.

Known for research, education, and outreach, UMN-Twin Cities is the state’s only land-grant university and one of the best in the country. The department of computer science and ngineering program is ranked among the best engineering schools in U.S. News & World Report, and as a CS&E student, you will be among a diverse community from all 50 states and 130+ countries.

The CSE department features a handful of program options, so buckle up! You can earn an MS in computer science with three tracks to choose from:

• Plan A, a thesis-based degree: 21 credit hours of coursework and 10 credit hours of thesis coursework.
• Plan B, a project-based degree: 31 credit hours of coursework divided into courses and project work.
• Plan C, a coursework-only degree: 31 credit hours of coursework with no committee or advisor.

The department also features a master’s of computer science (MCS) degree, which requires 31 credit hours of coursework only. Check out the admission requirements here.

Founded in 1766, Rutgers is the oldest and largest university in New Jersey and surrounding areas. With more than 71,000 students and 530,000+ alumni, it’s no surprise that U.S. News & World Report ranks Rutgers as #1 public university in New Jersey and among the top 25 in the nation. Our #15 ranking, an MS in computer science, comes from the Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences.

The MS in computer science prepares students for careers in development, design, and implementation of computer systems and software applications. Graduates are also prepared to hold leadership positions in the field, teach computer science, or pursue a doctoral degree. This program includes six concentrations:

1. General computer science
2. Data science
3. AI/machine learning
4. Robotics
5. Systems/security
6. Vision/visualization/graphics 

To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree, preferably in computer science, high GRE scores, and strong letters of recommendation. While you need at least a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate work, the mean GPA for the most recent incoming students was 3.62, so the higher, the better. You can apply online here.

Ohio State Buckeyes can be found all over the world, making a true difference. While OSU is highly ranked in various areas such as value, innovation, online programs, and overall best, we must mention that Niche gave OSU an A+ for campus food, so that’s something to keep in mind! You can earn an MS in computer science and engineering through OSU’s department of computer science and engineering.

OSU offers a Master of Science in computer science and engineering (CSE) with either a research (thesis) track or a coursework track. Both tracks include graduate pre-core, graduate core, and applied core classes and either a thesis or project option. The program entails between 30-33 credit hours in courses that provide a solid background in algorithms, computer architecture, operating systems, program languages, and more.

Applicants need a strong background in computer science and a minimum 3.2 GPA in undergraduate work. In addition, you need at least a 161 on the quantitative portion of the GRE and at least a 3 on the analytical writing segment. You can check out details for how to apply to OSU’s CSE program here.

If you’ve heard of Peter, the anteater, then you know he’s the mascot of UC-Irvine, one of the nine campuses in the prestigious UC system. UCI is home to more than 36,000 students and 222 degree programs and lots of school spirit! Awarded No. 1 university that does the most for the American dream (New York Times College Access), UCI is a wonderful choice to pursue higher education.

UCI’s master’s in computer science is a “full-time, 15-month professionally-oriented degree” that includes three core classes, two capstone courses, and six electives that totals 48 units. Each course has a lab/project component to ensure hands-on practical learning. UCI’s program also includes a professional writing and communication course that many CS programs do not require.

As a student, you will receive a myriad of career services, including mock interviews, workshops, and career/employer events. UCI reports that 89% of its graduates are employed within three months. Potential applicants need to complete prerequisites in programming in C++, Java, Python, or C, at least one year of relevant professional experience, and an algorithms or data structures course. Check out the admission details here.

World-class education, intensive research, and global impact are three reasons why Penn State, the state’s land-grant institution, is a top-ranking research university. The Center for World University Rankings, 2019, placed Penn State in the top 50, and with 700,000 students and 24 campuses, it’s clear the impact this institution has. Among the 300+ graduate programs, Penn State features an MS in computer science that prepares students for future careers in the industry or government.

This MS program includes a thesis or non-thesis option and three tracks to choose from: software engineering, systems programming, and artificial intelligence. All tracks include 30 hours and the following required courses: Theory of Computation, Design and Analysis of Algorithms, Advanced Operating Systems, and Advanced Topics in Database Management Systems.

As a student, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop scientific and engineering applications, software, safety systems, and solve computationally hard problems (Penn State website). Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field with a minimum 2.75 GPA from a regionally accredited institution.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, one of the ten colleges from Virginia Tech, a top research university in Northern Virginia and home of the Hokies! VT is the proud home of 34,440 students spanning across 110 undergraduate majors and 170 master’s and doctoral majors. You can earn a Master of Science in computer science with a thesis track and prepare for a dynamic career in the computer science industry.

The MS thesis option entails 30 credits, which is divided into approximately 21 hours of coursework credits and 9 hours of research and thesis. In addition, the graduate program includes training in scholarly ethics and integrity and inclusion and diversity. Sample courses include Modeling and Evaluation of Computer Systems, Web Application Development, and Data Analytics I and II.Note that you can also add a bioinformatics concentration or certificates in data analytics, urban computing, or human-computer interaction. VT evaluates applicants based on their ability to be successful in this research program. A minimum GPA or GRE scores are not required, as they look at a number of factors, including past related experience, research, writing ability, and academic record to determine their admission decisions.

Founded on the principles, With lux, libertas – light and liberty in 1789, UNC Chapel Hill is the nation’s first public university! UNC Chapel Hill continues to change the world through teaching, research, and public service, and if you join the community of Tarheels, you will become a part of this diverse, dynamic, nationally-ranked academic institution.

The department of computer science at UNC, established in 1964, is one of the first in the country. The MS in computer science requires 30 hours of courses numbered 400 or higher, such as Algorithms and Analysis, Programming Language Concepts, and Digital Logic and Computer Design. Students also must complete a “program product requirement,” a technical writing document, and a comprehensive final exam.

Currently, there are approximately 150 full-time graduates in the department of computer science, and they “contribute to nearly aspect of the department’s operation,” including researching, teaching, and serving on committees. Admission to UNC’s computer science program is competitive, and while students from all disciplines are welcome to apply, the ones with a solid background in computer science and math have the advantage.

The University of California – Davis is home of the Aggies, “the go-getters, change makers and problem solvers,” which currently includes over 39,000 students. A diverse campus with a global focus, UC Davis offers over 100 graduate and professional degrees, including a Master of Science in computer science that includes intriguing, state-of-the-art research projects.

The MS in computer science includes either a thesis option or a project/master exam option. Both tracks include 36 units in four core areas: architecture, systems, theory, and applications. The computer science department details a myriad of available research projects, including an augmented reality quadcopter game control and high-dimensional imaging and genomic data to human brain health.

This program takes most students between two and three years to complete. Applicants need to demonstrate proficiency in computer architecture, operating systems, programming language, theoretical foundations, and mathematical foundations. To apply, you need to submit your undergraduate transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a personal history statement.

UMass Amherst, known as a research powerhouse and a school devoted to diversity, is a nationally ranked university in strong academic programs in value (U.S. News & World Report and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine). The Princeton Review has also ranked UMass #1 in “Best Campus Food” for five years in a row! UMass Amherst’s College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS) features an innovative, on-campus MS in computer science.

Within this graduate program, you can choose from two tracks: a professional MS track and a research MS track. You can also choose from two concentrations: data science or security. Both concentrations require 30 credits, which break down into 12 credits of computer science core, six credits of concentration electives, and 12 credits of electives.

Admission is competitive, and UMass states that they accept 20% of master’s applicants. Backgrounds of applicants vary, and while a computer science background is a strength, they accept students with diverse undergraduate degrees math, engineering, psychology, and social sciences. Admission decisions are based on GPA, GRE scores, recommendation letters, and a personal statement.

NC State University, a top-ranked public research university in the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina, is known for being a powerhouse in research, specifically in science, technology, engineering, and math. It’s clearly no surprise that NC State’s MS in computer science made our list. Established in 1967, the notable department of computer science is one of the oldest in the country and offers many computer science degree programs.

NC State’s MS in computer science can be completed with a thesis or without. The thesis degree includes core courses, computer science electives, and thesis research, including a thesis defense. The non-thesis option includes coursework and is for students who plan to pursue Ph.D. studies. You can also choose from three tracks: data science, security, or software engineering. In addition, you can complete this program online through the distance education option.
NC State’s MS in computer science includes areas of expertise in theory, systems, artificial intelligence, networks, security, software engineering, and computer-based education. The department fosters “strong multidisciplinary and collaborative interactions and long-term ties” with other NC departments, programs, universities, laboratories, and government agencies, and more. (NC State website).

Did you know that Benjamin Franklin, printer, inventor, and founding father of the U.S., also founded the University of Pennsylvania? Check out Franklin’s vision in his essay published in 1749. More than 280 years later, Penn continues its tradition of excellence. Check out Penn’s master’s of engineering (MSE) in computer and information science (CIS) that prepares students to “be tomorrow’s innovators, leaders, and visionaries.”

The MSE/CIS program requires ten courses, and at least seven should be CIS courses. Sample courses include Analysis of Algorithms, Internet and Web Systems, and Machine Learning. A master’s thesis is also an available option, and students can choose specific areas in their curriculum such as AI, databases, security, programming languages, and more.

Applicants should have a strong background in math and computer science and need prerequisite courses in areas such as data structures, algorithms and theory, operating systems, and data structures. Graduates of this program have obtained careers such as senior programmer/analysts, software development engineers, systems engineers, and researchers.

The State University of New York at Stony Brook, just 60 miles from New York City, began in 1957 and boasts rankings such as the Top 1% in the World (QS World University Rankings, 2018) and Top 15 Best Value Public Colleges (Forbes magazine, 2019). Stony Brook offers 200+ undergraduate programs and 150+ master’s and doctoral programs including an MS in computer science.

Stony Brook’s MS in computer science is for “students for professionals in business, industry, or government, requiring a detailed knowledge of computer science concepts and applications” (Stony Brook website). You can choose between three courses of study:

• Basic project option: a broad coverage of computer science, including at least one project-oriented coursework
• Advanced project option: more involved computer science program, with two semester-long projects
• Thesis option: includes a 2-3 semester-long thesis project, including a dissertation.

All three MS program options include a minimum of 31 credit hours that include breadth requirements and graduate course lectures. Courses include Foundations of Human Computer, Data Science Fundamentals, and Artificial Intelligence. Admission to this program requires a bachelor’s in computer science or a related field.

In 1819, Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia based on the vision of  “a public university designed to advance human knowledge, educate leaders and cultivate an informed citizenry” (UVA website).  Over 200 years later, and UVA is a strong leader in higher education and research. UVA’s department of computer science is one of the best in the country and includes over 60 faculty and over 200 graduate students (along with 1400 undergraduates!)

UVA’s department of computer science offers both an MS and MSC in computer science. The big difference is that the MS program requires coursework and a thesis, whereas the MSC entails coursework mostly, with an option of a project. Both options include 31 credit hours in courses such as Computation as a Research Tool, Computer Science Perspectives, and Real-Time Systems.

We must mention the faculty and graduate student research at UVA, as it’s quite impressive. This department receives more than $7 million each year in federal government support. Currently, the current research projects involve computer systems, architecture, networks, cyber physical systems (CPS), artificial intelligence, security, software engineering, and theory. Applicants are accepted based on computer science background, GPA, GRE scores, reference letters, and personal statements.

Among the largest private universities in the U.S., New York University is a prominent, diverse academic institution, offering more than 400 programs to students from all 50 states and 133 countries. NYU’s department of computer science includes a master’s in computer science (MSCS), designed to “make you a better thinker, a better programmer, and a better system architect” (NYU website).

This MSCS is completely course-based, allowing you to specialize in areas of interest. You will take 12 graduate courses, which includes three foundational courses, two courses in designed application areas, and one capstone course that covers programming exercise. Notable courses include Foundational Algorithms, Advanced Database Systems, and Applied Cryptography and Network Security.

Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA while in this program. Applicants need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, strong GRE scores (160 for the quantitative section or 4.0 on the analytical writing section), and strong recommendations. To start in the spring, your application is due October 1, and to start in the fall, the application is due March 1.

Founded in 1754, Columbia University is the oldest university in New York and the fifth oldest in the country. A private Ivy League research institution, Columbia includes three undergraduate schools, 13 graduate and professional schools, a prestigious medical center, and four colleges and seminaries. Oh, and don’t forget the 25 libraries and 100+ research centers!

Columbia’s MS in computer science program provides in-depth knowledge and skills to students who want to specialize in a specific area. You can choose from one of eight concentrations: 

• Computational biology
• Computer security
• Foundations of computer science
• Machine learning
• Natural language processing
• Network systems
• Software systems
• Vision, graphics, interaction, and robotics
• MS personalized
• MS thesis

The MS personalized track is for students who want to study an area not covered by another track, while the MS thesis is for those who want to concentrate on research within a specific area. All tracks include at least 30 credit hours, including the breadth requirements. While some tracks are more research-heavy than others, all MS students are encouraged to participate in cutting edge research within the department.

Currently ranked #6 among all public universities in the country (U.S. News World & Report, 2021) is UC-Santa Barbara, a university with a global focus, devoted to academics and research. UC Santa Barbara notes, “Across our campus, you’ll find independent thinkers and consensus builders, Nobel Laureates and leaders chasing noble causes (UC website). Among the 200+ academic programs, you will find an MS in computer science that includes many specializations.

UC Santa Barbara’s MS in computer science can be completed through three plans: a thesis, a project, or a comprehensive exam. All tracks include 42 units of upper-division courses, approved by the faculty advisor. Students must choose courses from three major areas: foundation/theory, systems, and applications. Courses include Logic and Applications in Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Matrix Analysis and Computation.

The thesis and project track include research, while the comprehensive exam track entails an emphasis on coursework. To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, or mathematics, or related with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Currently, GRE scores are not required. You can check out the application requirements and deadlines here.

Established in 1865, Cornell University is a private Ivy League school that has produced 50 Nobel laureates and notable alumni such as Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Bill Nye, and Toni Morrison. Cornell comprises 15 colleges and schools and attracts students from all over the globe. Cornell Computing and Information Science (CIS) features programs in computer science, information science, and statistics and data science.

The M.Eng. program is a professional degree that entails two semesters with approximately six courses and a project. This plan of study is flexible because you can choose courses that match your interests and career goals. For example, you could focus on several different areas or choose one particular area of emphasis, such as artificial intelligence, graphics, or systems and theory.

To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, two recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, and transcripts of all college-related work. Applicants are accepted twice a year, for spring and fall semesters. The deadlines are October 1 (January start) and February 1 (August start). Check out additional information about the application process here.

What is Hoosier life like at Indiana University-Bloomington? One student describes it like this:  “Very energetic. Very lively. You can make IU your own home – and you can just have that place where you can be yourself.” (IU Bloomington website). IU Bloomington is the flagship campus of IU’s seven campuses and is marked by innovation, creativity, and strong academics, seen through all the programs and in the vibrant atmosphere.

IU Bloomington’s MS in computer science is a “technical, highly marketable degree that combines courses on computing fundamentals with cutting-edge applications of computer science” to prepare you for lucrative careers in the field (IU Bloomington website). Indeed,  graduates from this program become software engineers, technical consultants, programmers, security consultants, and analysts for notable companies like IBM, Yahoo!, and Amazon.

This program includes 30 credits from four categories: foundations, systems, computer science courses, and creativity requirements. You can choose from a plethora of research concentrations like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data mining, and graphics and visualization. Admission decisions are made based on how well applicant’s interests and abilities align with the CS program.

Here’s a striking fact: Google has not always been there! In fact, what started as a graduate research project in 1996 for two Stanford computer science graduate students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, became one of the world’s best inventions, and seriously, what we do without Google? What better place to earn a MS in computer science than the place of innovation and discovery, Stanford University?

We haven’t seen another school on this list that allows students a two-week “shopping period” to attend as many classes as they want and then decide which ones they want to take! In Stanford’s CS graduate program, first you explore, then you choose. You also need to choose one of nine specializations:

1. Artificial intelligence
2. Biocomputation
3. Computer and network security
4. Human-computer interaction
5. Information management and analytics
6. Real-world computing
7. Software theory
8. Systems
9. Theoretical computer science

The MS program requires at least 45 units that include foundation, breadth, depth, specialization, and elective courses. You will build your own plan of study and submit it to your academic advisor prior to the end of your first semester, although it can be revised later, if needed. Stanford’s CS program is competitive. Check out the applicant requirements here.

The largest campus in the 64-campus State University of New York system, the University of Buffalo is a research-intensive public university ranked in the top 1% of the world by Center for World University Rankings. Among the over 273,000 UB alumni are NASA astronauts, award-winning writers, and Hollywood actors and actresses. UB’s school of engineering and applied science offers a Master of Science in computer science and engineering.

The MS in computer science in engineering is a full-time, on-campus program, entailing 30 credit hours and either a thesis or a project. As a student, you will complete both core and focus area courses in theory/algorithms, artificial intelligence, software and information systems, and hardware and networked systems.

As a student at UB, you will be a part of a vibrant and diverse community of faculty and graduate students. You will gain hands-on experience through internships, assistantships, and CSE student clubs and organizations. Applicants are expected to have a BS degree (GPA higher than 3.0) with a strong background in computer science, math, or engineering. You can review the FAQ for graduate admissions here.

Founded in 1980, Washington State University is one of America’s top research institutions and has achieved “highest research activity” status by Carnegie Classification (2018). WSU’s research impact is tremendous, and data from the National Science Foundation state the school surpasses $360.5 million in research expenditures (WSU’s “about” sheet). 

WSU’s school of electrical engineering and computer science (EECS) consistently ranks within the top 100 computer engineering schools by U.S. News & World Report. The EECS offers a handful of master and doctoral degrees, including an MS in computer science with a thesis and non-thesis option. As a student, you will play an essential role in the department’s many research projects like in electric design automation, signal processing and communications, and human computer interactions.
Along with impactive research, you will gain job security and earning potential. Graduate career placements include companies such as Intel, Microsoft, Amazon, Hewlett Packard, and Expedia, among others. To apply, you need a bachelor’s in computer science or a related field, a statement of purpose, and three recommendation letters. You can apply online here.

Among other rankings, Arizona State University – Tempe is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the nation’s most innovative school, and you will quickly see why. ASU has inspired more than half a million alumni ranging from U.S. governors, congressmen, senators, researchers, entrepreneurs, educators, entertainers, and more. You will find hundreds of top-ranked degree programs at ASU, including a Master of Science in computer science.

ASU’s MS in computer science includes a thesis and a portfolio option, and both tracks include 30 credit hours in required core areas, electives, and culminating experiences. Courses and research areas include artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, cloud and distributed computing, cyber security, health operations and informatics, network algorithms, and much more. Check out the CS department video here.

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related area and a minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA. To apply, submit your official transcripts, GRE scores, three recommendation letters, and statement of purpose. Do note that if your undergraduate degree is from ASU, you do not need to submit GRE scores.