35 Best Computer Science Masters Programs

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 computer science degree and attend class just one evening per week on campus. Notable courses include:

• Programming Language Analysis and Implementation
• Computer-Aided Reasoning for Software
• Advanced Topics in Software Systems

You can check out the full list of computer science courses 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.

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 best computer science university includes the notable department of electrical engineering and computer sciences, which attracts exceptional students from 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. Computer Science 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 and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants should submit a statement of purpose and three letters of recommendation that include your:

• goals
• research accomplishments
• academic work
• leadership skills

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. U of I includes 15 colleges, including the Grainger College of Engineering, where you can earn an MS in computer science.

The computer science master’s degree 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
• 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.

As the second-largest university in the country, UCLA Angeles’ optimism and drive has inspired:

• 14 Nobel Prizes
• 15 Nobel Laureates
• 118 NCAA titles
• 261 Olympic medals

You will find our #4 computer science 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 master’s degree program is competitive. You need a bachelor’s in computer science or a related field like electrical engineering or statistics. 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 is a public university with almost 44,000 students. The MS in computer science includes three plans 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 requires 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 an online Master’s Degree in Computer Science.

Applicants should possess core competency in computer science areas such as:

• algorithms
• databases
• networking
• computer architecture
• human-computer interaction

You must submit GRE scores, a personal statement, and recommendation letters along with a bachelor’s degree in computer science (or a related field).

Founded in 1883, UT Austin is not only one of the largest schools in the country but it is considered one of the best universities in the world. With more than 51,000 students from 18 colleges and schools, UT is also one of the most diverse. UT’s computer science master’s degree program is also highly competitive

The department offers two on-campus computer science master’s programs: an 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
• diversity areas in theory, systems, and application

Only about 9% of students who apply are admitted. To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA and high quantitative GRE scores. Applicants should have a background in math and computer science along with recommendation letters. Past research experience, projects, internships, and publications are a plus.

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 your master’s degree 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 computer science master’s degree 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.

The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor boasts many national awards, including #1 in research volume among U.S. public research universities by National Science Foundation. At UM-Ann Arbor, you will find a master’s degree 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.

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
• User Interface Development

This program pays off, as CSE graduates work at top companies such as Apple and Google. 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.

At Purdue, you can earn a master’s in computer science with either a thesis or non-thesis option and add 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
• 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., 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 computer science master’s degree 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 at least ten courses/30 credit hours and takes about two years to complete.

In addition, you should have at least a 3.5 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 of UF’s academic programs. UF is known for it’s record-setting philanthropy so it’s no surprise that UF Gators make a difference not just on campus but long after graduation.

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

This program includes core courses including:

1. Analysis of Algorithms
2. Computer Architecture Principles
3. Programming Language Principles
4. Computer Networks
5. Advanced-Data Structures

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. While UF admits students based on a holistic standard, you need at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university.

We must mention that our #12 best university for computer science, UC San Diego, is not only one of the world’s top research universities but also 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 science. 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 are divided up into:

• breadth courses (topics outside your area)
• depth courses (comprehensive topics in your research area)
• electives
• research
• 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 is home to over 72,500 students.

The department of computer science and engineering (CSE) at Texas A&M was founded when the university opened in 1876 and is currently the largest college on the campus. The CSE offers two computer science master’s programs, 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. The curriculum includes three breadth CSCE courses and six hours of non-CSCE courses. Students also complete 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.

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 Engineering program is considered one of the top computer science colleges in the country. As a Computer Science & Engineering student, you will be among a diverse community of students 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.

Founded in 1766, Rutgers is the oldest and largest university in New Jersey and surrounding areas. With more than 50,000 students and 530,000+ alumni, it’s no surprise that Rutgers is included in our computer science colleges ranking. 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
• implementation of computer systems and software programs

Computer science program 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. Massive Data Analytics
3. AI and Machine Learning
4. Robotics
5. Systems and Security
6. Vision/Visualization/Graphics 

To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree, preferably in computer science. Applicants should also have 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.

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’s 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 computer science fundamentals like:

• algorithms
• computer architecture
• operating systems
• computer languages

Computer science program applicants need a strong background in CS 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.

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! 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
• six electives

The computer science master’s degree requires a total of 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. They’ll also need at least one year of relevant professional experience, and an algorithms or data structures course.

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. With 80,000 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 computer science master’s program includes a thesis or non-thesis option and three tracks to choose from:

• software engineering
• systems programming
• artificial intelligence

All computer science degree tracks include 30 hours and the following required courses:

• Theory of Computation
• Design and Analysis of Algorithms
• Advanced Operating Systems
• Advanced Topics in Database Management Systems

As a computer science student, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop scientific and engineering applications. You’ll also learn about software programs, safety systems, and hard computational problems. 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, is a top research university in Northern Virginia and home of the Hokies! VT is the proud home of 37,279 students spanning 110 undergraduate majors and 170 master’s and doctoral majors. You can earn a master’s in computer science with a thesis track and prepare for a dynamic career in the computer science industry.

The master’s degree 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
• Machine Learning

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 score is not required, as they look at a number of factors to determine an admission decision including:

• past related experience
• research
• writing ability
• academic record

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 master’s in computer science requires 30 hours of courses numbered 400 or higher, such as:

• Algorithms and Analysis
• Programming Language Concepts
• Digital Logic and Computer Design

Research efforts at UNC-Chapel Hill emphasize cutting-edge areas of computer science including:

• computer vision
• machine learning
• cyber-physical systems

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 every 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 40,000 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 computer science degree includes either a thesis option or a project/master exam option. Both tracks include 36 units in four core areas:

• architecture
• systems
• theory
• 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 master’s degree 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
• mathematical foundations

To apply, you need to submit your undergraduate transcripts and three letters of recommendation. Applicants also need a statement of purpose and a personal history statement.

UMass Amherst, known as a research powerhouse and a school devoted to diversity. UMass Amherst’s College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS) features an innovative, on-campus computer science master’s degree.

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. They also offer a unique concentration in field experience. 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 in areas like math and engineering. Admission decisions are based on a variety of factors including:

• GPA
• GRE scores
• recommendation letters
• 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 computer science master’s degree 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 offers one of the most flexible computer science masters degrees. Their MS in computer science degree can be completed with a thesis or without. The thesis degree includes:

• core courses
• computer science electives
• 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
• software engineering

In addition, you can complete this program online through the distance education option.

NC State’s computer science master’s degree includes areas of expertise in:

• systems
• artificial intelligence
• networks
• security
• software engineering
• theory
• machine learning
• 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.

Did you know that Benjamin Franklin, printer, inventor, and founding father of the U.S., also founded the University of Pennsylvania? 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
• 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

Applicants should have a strong background in math and computer science and need prerequisite courses in areas such as data structures and operating systems. Graduates of this program have obtained careers such as:

• senior programmer/analysts
• software development engineers
• systems engineers
• researchers

The State University of New York at Stony Brook, just 60 miles from New York City, began in 1957 and is home to over 26,000 students. Stony Brook offers 200+ undergraduate programs and 150+ master’s and doctoral programs including computer science master’s degree.

Stony Brook’s computer science degree is for “students for professionals in business, industry, or government, requiring a detailed knowledge of computer science concepts and applications”. 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 master’s degree 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
• 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”.  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 master’s degree 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
• 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. Current research projects involve:

• computer systems
• architecture
• networks
• cyber physical systems (CPS)
• artificial intelligence
• security
• software engineering
• theory

Applicants are accepted based on computer science background and their GPA. Other contributing factors include 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”.

This master’s in computer science 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
• 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 master’s 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 computer science students are encouraged to participate in cutting edge research within the department.

UC-Santa Barbara is 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. Among the 200+ academic programs, you will find an master’s in computer science degree that includes many specializations.

UC Santa Barbara’s master’s in computer science can be completed through three plans:

• a thesis
• a project
• 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:

• foundations/theory
• systems
• applications

Courses include:

• Logic and Applications in Computer Science
• Advanced Topics in Machine Learning
• Advanced Topics in Computer Vision

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.

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
• statistics
• 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 and two recommendation letters. Applicants also need to have a statement of purpose and submit 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).

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 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 computer science master’s degree 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. Indeed, graduates from this program become:

• software engineers
• technical consultants
• programmers
• security consultants
• 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. Computer science master’s degree students can choose from a plethora of research concentrations like:

• artificial intelligence
• cybersecurity
• data mining
• machine learning
• graphics and visualization

Admission decisions are made based on how well the applicant’s interests and abilities align with the master’s in computer science 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 computer science master’s degree 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 computer science master’s degree 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 computer science master’s program requires at least 45 units that include:

• computer science fundamentals
• breadth and depth courses
• a specialization
• electives

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 computer science master’s program is competitive.

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 the 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’s degree in computer science and engineering.

The master’s degree in computer science and 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
• computer hardware and networked systems

As a computer science 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.

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 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’s and doctoral degrees, including a computer science master’s degree with a thesis and non-thesis option. As a student, you will play an essential role in the department’s many research projects:

• electric design automation
• signal processing and communications
• 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.

Arizona State University – Tempe is one of the nation’s most innovative schools, and you will quickly see why. ASU has inspired more than half a million alumni ranging from U.S. governors to congressmen and researchers to entertainers, and more. You will find hundreds of top-ranked degree programs at ASU, including a computer science master’s degree.

ASU’s master’s in computer science degree includes a thesis and a portfolio option. Both tracks include 30 credit hours in required core areas, electives, and culminating experiences. Courses and research areas include:

• artificial intelligence
• machine learning
• bioinformatics
• cloud and distributed computing
• cyber security
• health operations and informatics
• network algorithms

Master’s degree 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 and GRE scores. Applicants should also have three recommendation letters and a statement of purpose. Do note that if your undergraduate degree is from ASU, you do not need to submit GRE scores.