Program start date | Application deadline |
2024-01-01 | - |
2024-08-01 | - |
Program Overview
Master of Science in Computer Science
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Computer Science will prepare you to enter one of the fastest-growing, in-demand careers. The program is primarily online but includes a three-day, seated intensive component each semester. After graduation, you'll be ready to pursue further doctoral studies, such as a PhD in Computer Science, or jump right into the field as a computer graphics, artificial intelligence, software engineering, networking, computational theory and analysis professional.
Program at a Glance
Total Credit Hours
31
Format & Duration
Primarily online with a seated intensive once per semester
Start Dates
- Spring 2024 — January 1, 2024
- Fall: August
- Spring: January
Nationally Ranked Cybersecurity Teams
As an extracurricular opportunity, you can join our undergraduate students and form teams in the national cyber Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions. Anderson University has homegrown CTF practice sites where students can hone their skills while preparing for national-level competitions. At the undergraduate level, AU students have ranked in the top 5% in national competitions. Participation in CTF competitions can help you be more competitive in the marketplace for internships and full-time employment. Many employers in the cybersecurity industry look for students who are active in CTF competitions.
Why AU?
Our Master of Science in Computer Science differs from programs at other universities in the following ways:
- Flexibility of online courses with a short intensive in-person session
- Strong support from caring professors who want to help them succeed in their goals
- Global networking opportunities
- A program designed for high-performing students who excel at solving today’s challenges and want rigorous training
Course Information
- 3 COSC 610 – Algorithms and Data Structures
- 3 COSC 615 – Computer Organization and Architecture
- 3 COSC 620 – Formal Language Theory
- 3 COSC 625 – Networking and Operating Systems
- 3 BUS 640 – Data Management and Application Development
- 3 BUS 641 – Statistical Computing
- 3 BUS 642 – Analytics and the Enterprise
- 3 CYB 510 – Cybersecurity Technology
- 3 CYB 610 – Data Security and Privacy in Cloud Environments
- 3 CYB 630 – Cybersecurity Architecture and Design
- 1 COSC 596 – Experiential Learning (1-5 Cr. Hrs.) OPTIONAL
Admission Requirements
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (Applicants who do not meet this criterion may also be considered for admission if they can demonstrate convincingly that they have the equivalent of a baccalaureate degree.)
In addition, they should demonstrate:
- Ability to write program in a high-level programming language (such as C, C++, Java)
- Knowledge of computer architecture, and operating systems
- Basic knowledge of software engineering
- Basic knowledge of mathematical analysis, elements of theoretical foundations of computer science, and analysis of algorithms
Applicants must:
- complete an Anderson University Graduate Studies Admission Application with a nonrefundable application fee.
- have earned an appropriate cumulative college GPA of 2.5 or greater;
- in the case of international students, if English is not the student’s first language, minimum standards must be attained as follows:
- TOEFL score of 550 (paper), 220 (computer) or 75 (internet);
- IELTS score of 6;
- ELS level 112 Completion Certificate or AGAPE level 5 is required;
- Dulingo score of 100 or above;
- Pearson PTE score of 50 or above; or
- iTEP score of 3.7 or above.
Salary & Career Information
Upon graduation with an Anderson University MS in Computer Science, you’ll be equipped to pursue the positions and fields that include, but are not limited to:
- Computer Network Architect
- Software Developer / Engineer
- Information Security Manager
- Database Administrator
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Mobile Application Developer
- Web Developer
- Computer and Information Researcher
- Data Analysis
- Work in Artificial Intelligence
- Game Design
- Modeling and Animation
- Validation Engineer
According to the United States Department of Labor, every company, level of government, or business is seeking experts in computer science fields. The demand for qualified field experts is growing, as is the expected salaries.
In fact, there are currently more 420,000 open jobs in the United States waiting to be filled by qualified computing experts. However, only about 90,000 qualified graduates are available to fill the positions.
In short, opportunities for students of computer science continue to grow, with careers possible in not only specific areas like computer engineering, software engineering, information technology, but also in mixed disciplines such as bioinformatics, gaming and animation, computational and data science, among others.
Years of Experience
- Early Career: 50.0%
- Mid Career: 37.5%
- Experienced: 8.3%
This data is based on 24 survey responses.
Gender Breakdown for Master’s Degree, Computer Science (CS)
- Male: 72.2% (Avg. Salary: $80k – $175k)
- Female: 27.8% (Avg. Salary: $79k – $102k)
This data is based on 18 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
Source: payscale
Semester Plans
Semester plans are subject to change at any time. Semester breakdowns displayed are suggested and additional options are available to help customize your educational experience. Speak to an admission or student services representative for more information. Please see our catalog for more details.
10 Courses
30 total credit hours
- 3 COSC 610 – Algorithms and Data Structures
- 3 COSC 615 – Computer Organization and Architecture
- 3 COSC 620 – Formal Language Theory
- 3 COSC 625 – Networking and Operating Systems
- 3 BUS 640 – Data Management and Application Development
- 3 BUS 641 – Statistical Computing
- 3 BUS 642 – Analytics and the Enterprise
- 3 CYB 510 – Cybersecurity Technology
- 3 CYB 610 – Data Security and Privacy in Cloud Environments
- 3 CYB 630 – Cybersecurity Architecture and Design
- 1 COSC 596 – Experiential Learning (1-5 Cr. Hrs.) OPTIONAL
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Objectives: Prepares students for high-demand careers in computer science.
- Focus: Online program with three-day, seated intensive component per semester.
- Target Audience: High-performing students who excel at solving challenges and want rigorous training.
- Outcomes: Prepares graduates for further doctoral studies or immediate entry into fields like computer graphics, AI, software engineering, networking, computational theory, and analysis.
Outline:
- Program Format: Primarily online with a seated intensive once per semester.
- Duration: 5 semesters / 20 months (based on students with a 3.0 GPA who double up on courses).
- Total Credit Hours: 31
- Start Dates: Fall (August) and Spring (January)
- Modules:
- Faculty: Focus on caring professors who support students' goals.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths:
- Computer Network Architect
- Software Developer / Engineer
- Database Administrator
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Mobile Application Developer
- Web Developer
- Data Analyst
- Artificial Intelligence
- Game Design
- Modeling and Animation
- Validation Engineer
- Salary Expectations:
- Early Career: $80k - $175k
- Mid Career: $79k - $102k
- Demand:
- High demand with 420,000 open jobs in the US.
- Only 90,000 qualified graduates available.
Other:
- Nationally Ranked Cybersecurity Teams: Extracurricular opportunity for students to participate in national Capture the Flag competitions.
- Global Networking Opportunities: Program designed to connect students with professionals worldwide.
- Flexibility: Online format with short intensive in-person sessions.
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- Ability to write program in a high-level programming language (C, C++, Java).
- Knowledge of computer architecture and operating systems.
- Basic knowledge of software engineering, mathematical analysis, and theoretical foundations of computer science.
- Minimum GPA of 2.5.
- English proficiency requirements for international students.
- It also includes links to the Anderson University Graduate Studies Admission Application, the catalog, the AU Network, and social media pages.
Anderson University
Overview:
Anderson University is a private, four-year institution located in Anderson, South Carolina. It was founded in 1911 as a women's college and became co-educational in 1929. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
Anderson University provides a range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
The university offers academic support services such as tutoring, study skills seminars, and writing center assistance.Disability Services:
Accommodations are provided to students with disabilities in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.Financial Aid:
Anderson University offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.Textbook Program:
The Trojan Textbook Program includes the cost of textbooks and software in tuition for traditional undergraduate, non-traditional undergraduate, and ABSN students.Transcript Services:
Students can request official and unofficial transcripts through Anderson Central.Employer Reimbursement:
The university assists students in coordinating with their employers for tuition reimbursement.Tuition Protection Plan:
Anderson University partners with GradGuard to offer tuition insurance.Commuter Meal Plan Options:
Commuter students can purchase meal plans through the Housing Portal.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at Anderson University can expect a vibrant campus life with opportunities for:
Student Activities:
The university offers a wide range of clubs and organizations for students to join.Religious Activities:
Anderson University has a strong Christian focus with various organizations and activities emphasizing religious life.Recreation and Fitness:
Students have access to the Fitness Center, Athletic Campus gym, and University Pool.Campus Housing:
Residential students are required to purchase meal plans.Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Christian Focus:
Anderson University is a faith-based institution with a strong emphasis on Christian values.Small Class Sizes:
The student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1, allowing for personalized attention from professors.Diverse Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.Vibrant Campus Life:
Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities.Convenient Location:
Anderson is located near Greenville, Atlanta, and Charlotte, providing access to various professional, cultural, and recreational opportunities.Academic Programs:
Anderson University offers programs in the following colleges and schools:
- College of Arts & Sciences
- College of Business
- College of Christian Studies
- College of Education
- College of Engineering
- College of Health Professions
- School of Interior Design
- School of Public Service & Administration
- The South Carolina School of the Arts
Other:
- Anderson University is recognized as a "Great College to Work For" and a nationally recognized Honor Roll Institution.
- The university is test-optional for admission.
- The average fall enrollment is over 4,000 students.
- The city of Anderson is known as the "Friendliest City in South Carolina."
- The university is committed to diversity and inclusion.
Entry Requirements:
Applicants should have:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- Ability to write program in a high-level programming language (such as C, C++, Java).
- Knowledge of computer architecture and operating systems.
- Basic knowledge of software engineering.
- Basic knowledge of mathematical analysis, elements of theoretical foundations of computer science, and analysis of algorithms.
Applicants must:
- Complete an Anderson University Graduate Studies Admission Application with a nonrefundable application fee.
- Have earned an appropriate cumulative college GPA of 2.5 or greater.
- In the case of international students, if English is not the student's first language, minimum standards must be attained as follows:
- TOEFL score of 550 (paper), 220 (computer) or 75 (internet);
- IELTS score of 6;
- ELS level 112 Completion Certificate or AGAPE level 5 is required;
- Duolingo score of 100 or above;
- Pearson PTE score of 50 or above;
- iTEP score of 3.7 or above.