Program Overview

Overview

The Computer Science Master of Science Degree is designed for students who have an undergraduate degree (or minor) in computer science, as well as those who have a strong background in a field in which computers are applied, such as engineering, science, or business. The degree is offered on a full- or part-time basis and can be completed either on-campus or online.

Why Pursue an MS in Computer Science at RIT?

• STEM-OPT Visa Eligible: The STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows full-time, on-campus international students on an F-1 student visa to stay and work in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation.
• Flexible Learning: Choose between on-campus or online study.
• Cutting-Edge Specializations: Explore dynamic fields such as computer graphics, data science, and artificial intelligence through specialized coursework, equipping you with advanced skills for career advancement.
• Personalized Degree: Tailor your degree by selecting from a diverse array of cluster courses, allowing you to delve deeper into your areas of interest and expertise while gaining a broad understanding of the ever-evolving field of computer science.
• Comprehensive Preparation: Our program, designed for both computer science majors and those with a strong background in applied fields, provides a comprehensive curriculum encompassing theoretical principles, practical applications, and research opportunities, preparing you for academic and research careers in computer science or related disciplines.

Careers and Cooperative Education

Typical Job Titles

• Associate Software Engineer
• Backend Developer
• Big Data Platform Engineer
• Data Scientist
• Full-Stack Software Engineer
• Site Reliability Engineer
• Software Developer
• Software Engineer
• Technology Analyst

Cooperative Education

Cooperative education is optional but strongly encouraged for graduate students in the computer science MS degree. It provides relevant, hands-on career experience that sets you apart from other job applicants.

Curriculum

Computer Science (thesis option), MS degree, typical course sequence

• CSCI-665: Foundations of Algorithms (3 credits)
• CSCI-790: Computer Science MS Thesis (6 credits)
• Cluster Courses (9 credits)
• Electives (12 credits)

Computer Science (project option), MS degree, typical course sequence

• CSCI-665: Foundations of Algorithms (3 credits)
• CSCI-788: Computer Science MS Project (3 credits)
• Cluster Courses (9 credits)
• Electives (15 credits)

Admissions and Financial Aid

Application Details

To be considered for admission to the Computer Science MS program, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

• Complete an online graduate application.
• Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
• Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) is recommended.
• Satisfy prerequisite requirements and/or complete bridge courses prior to starting program coursework.
• Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
• Submit two letters of recommendation.
• Entrance exam requirements: GRE optional for Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 applicants. No minimum score requirement.
• Submit English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic), if required.

Cost and Financial Aid

An RIT graduate degree is an investment with lifelong returns. Graduate tuition varies by degree, the number of credits taken per semester, and delivery method. View the general cost of attendance or estimate the cost of your graduate degree.

Faculty

• M. Mustafa Rafique, Associate Professor
• Edith Hemaspaandra, Professor
• Rajendra Raj, Professor

Research

Faculty members in the department of computer science are actively engaged in the following research areas:

• Artificial intelligence
• Computer graphics and visualization
• Computer science education
• Data science
• Distributed systems
• Language and tools
• Security
• Theory

Contact

• Mandie Klingelhoffer, Senior Assistant Director, Office of Graduate and Part-Time Enrollment Services
• Hans-Peter Bischof, Graduate Program Coordinator, Department of Computer Science