Computer Science, MS

This is the first version of the 2024–25 General Catalog. Please check back regularly for changes. The final edition and the historical PDF will be published during the fall semester.

The Master of Science in computer science is offered only to students working toward the PhD in computer science. Students who are interested primarily in a master's degree and who do not intend to pursue a more advanced degree should apply to the Master of Computer Science (MCS) program. Students are not directly admitted to this degree program. For more information about program admission options, please contact the program.

Current and prospective graduate students should consult the Computer Science Graduate Handbook, available from the department's office and its website. The handbook provides detailed information about specific degree requirements, such as required courses, examinations, and dissertation requirements.

Learning Outcomes

Students gain:

  • broad, up-to-date knowledge of computer science;
  • fluency in reading, analyzing, synthesizing, and communicating research;
  • a good understanding of a research area, its methods, and major open problems; and
  • awareness of computing research ethics.