Program Overview

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Program Overview

The Master of Computer Science program is designed for students employed in industry who seek a breadth of advanced education in computer science. The program reflects the dual nature of computer science as a scientific and engineering discipline, allowing emphasis on theory as well as practical applications.

Program Description

The Master of Computer Science program affords students the opportunity to seek a breadth of advanced education in computer science. Students can study topics such as:

• artificial intelligence
• big data and data mining
• cloud and distributed computing
• computer system security, cybersecurity, and cryptography
• cyber-physical system and IoT
• imaging, graphics, and visualization
• machine learning
• operating systems
• theory and algorithms
• simulation modeling and systems

At a Glance

• College/school: Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
• Location: Online
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

Accelerated Program Options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. Accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving students who want the opportunity to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.

Degree Requirements

• 30 credit hours - Course-based Master's Option
• Required Core Areas (9 credit hours)
  • applications (3)
  • foundations (3)
  • systems (3)
• Electives (21 credit hours)
  • Students choose 21 credit hours of elective coursework approved by their academic advisor.
  • Coursework selected as part of the area core may not be used as elective coursework on the same plan of study.
  • At least 24 of these hours must be CSE 500-level credits at ASU.
  • Up to six credit hours of 400-level courses may be applied to the plan of study.
  • All 30 credit hours must be from formal coursework.
  • CSE 590 is not allowed as part of the MCS program plan of study.

Admission Requirements

• General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
• Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.
• Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related area from a regionally accredited institution.
• Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or they must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
• Applicants must submit:
  • graduate admission application and application fee
  • official transcripts
  • statement of purpose or a curriculum vitae
  • proof of English proficiency

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Attend Online

ASU Online offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.

Application Deadlines

• Fall:
  • Session A/C: In Person (12/01), Online (07/21)
  • Session B: Online (09/17)
• Spring:
  • Session A/C: In Person (08/01), Online (12/13)
  • Session B: Online (02/12)
• Summer:
  • Session A/C: Online (04/18)

Career Opportunities

Graduates are able to analyze key theories, algorithms, and software modules used in the field of computer science. Career examples include:

• computer network architect
• computer system analyst
• computer systems engineer
• data scientist or engineer
• machine learning, AI, or computer vision engineer
• software engineer
• software developer

Program Details

The Master of Computer Science program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in computer science, preparing them for careers in industry, government, or academia. The program's curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in computer science, as well as the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of interest. The program is offered online, providing flexibility for students who need to balance their academic and professional responsibilities. The program's faculty are renowned experts in their fields, providing students with the opportunity to learn from the best in the field. The program's research areas include artificial intelligence, big data and data mining, cloud and distributed computing, computer system security, cybersecurity, and cryptography, among others. The program's graduates are highly sought after by top employers in the field, and have gone on to successful careers in industry, government, and academia.