Program Overview
The M.S. in Computer Science at UMSL offers a flexible program with two options: Traditional Computer Science and Certificate. The program provides a broad computing background and prepares graduates for teamwork, research, and technical presentations. Students can complete the program part-time or full-time, and many courses are available online or in a hybrid format. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in software engineering, computer science, data science, and other related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The M.S. degree in Computer Science at UMSL offers two options: Traditional Computer Science and Certificate. The program provides graduates with a broad computing background and exposes them to a wide range of technologies. Graduates are prepared for teamwork, independent research, and technical reporting and presentations. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to take courses part-time or full-time, and many courses are available online or in a hybrid format.
Outline:
Core Courses:
- CMP SCI 4250: Programming Languages (3 credits)
- CMP SCI 5130: Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms (3 credits)
- CMP SCI 5500: Software Engineering (3 credits)
Additional Requirements:
- Students must complete an additional 21 credit hours, which can include courses from CMP SCI or a related field with the permission of the Graduate Director.
- Up to a third of the required credit hours can be transferred into the program.
- At least 18 credit hours must be numbered 5000 or above, and at least 3 credit hours must be at the 6000-level (research courses or thesis).
- All courses numbered below 5000 must be completed with a grade of at least B-.
Certificate Option:
Students can choose to complete a graduate certificate in a specific area of study as part of their M.S. degree. For a list of current certificates, visit the Computer Science Department page in the University Bulletin or the departmental list of current certificates.
Professional Option:
This option is designed for professionals who have worked in a computing/technology field for at least three years beyond graduation. It allows them to return to school for an advanced degree while utilizing some of their professional experience.
Careers:
Graduates of the M.S. in Computer Science program are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the computing field. They may work as software engineers, computer scientists, data scientists, or in other related fields.
University of Missouri St. Louis
Overview:
University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL) is a public research university located in St. Louis, Missouri. It is the largest university in the St. Louis metropolitan area and boasts a diverse student body. UMSL offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional programs, with a focus on affordability and accessibility.
Services Offered:
UMSL provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, and writing centers.Career Services:
Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Health, Counseling, and Disability Access:
Counseling services, health services, and disability support.Residential Life:
On-campus housing options and residential life programs.Student Involvement:
Clubs, organizations, and volunteer opportunities.Veterans Services:
Support and resources for veteran students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UMSL offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:
Athletics:
UMSL is home to the Tritons, who compete in NCAA Division II athletics.Performing Arts:
The Touhill Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of performances and events.Student Organizations:
Over 200 student organizations cater to diverse interests.Campus Events:
UMSL hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and festivals.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordability:
UMSL is ranked #1 in Missouri for affordability.Accessibility:
UMSL offers a variety of flexible learning options, including online and evening programs.Research Opportunities:
UMSL is a research-intensive university with a strong focus on community engagement.Location:
UMSL is located in the heart of St. Louis, providing access to a vibrant city and a wealth of cultural and historical attractions.Alumni Network:
UMSL has a large and active alumni network, providing valuable connections for students.Academic Programs:
UMSL offers over 50 undergraduate degrees and numerous graduate programs across a variety of disciplines, including:
Arts and Sciences:
Biology, Chemistry, English, History, Mathematics, Psychology, and more.Business Administration:
Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management, and more.Education:
Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education, and more.Engineering:
Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and more.Nursing:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).Optometry:
Doctor of Optometry (OD).Social Work:
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW).Other:
UMSL is committed to transforming its campus and the surrounding region through strategic initiatives. The university is investing in new facilities and programs to enhance the student experience and contribute to the economic and social well-being of the St. Louis community.
Entry Requirements:
Applicants must meet the general graduate admission requirements of the Graduate School, described in the UMSL Bulletin. Students are considered for admission to the graduate program in Computer Science only after they have formally applied for admission through the Graduate School. Applications are completed on-line. Additional requirements are listed below. Applicants must demonstrate significant proficiency in computer science by showing competence (demonstrating related academic or professional experience) in the following areas. Courses in parentheses are UMSL recommended undergraduate courses that would satisfy the requirements. Programming skills in C or C++ and Java (CMP SCI 1250 or CMP SCI 2250, and CMP SCI 2261) Proficiency with Object-Oriented concepts and terminology (CMP SCI 2261) Proficiency with dynamic data structures (CMP SCI 2250) Proficiency with computer organization, architecture, or assembly level programming (CMP SCI 2700) Proficiency with design and time/space analysis of algorithms (CMP SCI 3130) Familiarity with Unix/Linux/OSX and with command-line processing, file system and permissions, shell and script programming (CMP SCI 2750) Students must also have satisfactorily completed mathematics courses equivalent to the following UMSL courses: One semester of calculus (MATH 1800 ) A course in discrete mathematics (MATH 3000) An elementary course in probability or statistics (MATH 1320) An applicant missing some of the above requirements may be admitted on restricted status if there is strong supportive evidence in other areas. Such restricted students would have to take the suggested courses for the missing requirements or otherwise demonstrate proficiency.
