Program Overview

Master's of Science in Computer Science

In-Depth Experiences, Real-World Impact

At a Glance

• Degree Type: Master of Science
• Location: Bellingham, face to face
• Total Credits: 56 to 57

Program Information

Research and develop the computing solutions of tomorrow and become an expert in Western Washington University’s Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science program. Regardless of what you studied as an undergraduate, WWU’s two-year CS master’s degree will equip you for a thriving career in the robust and expanding computer science industry.

Enroll full-time to rapidly advance your credentials, or complete the program part-time alongside your existing personal and professional commitments.

Program Features

• Welcomes students from CS or non-CS backgrounds
• Small classes & tight-knit cohort
• Leading-edge computer science research
• CS Mentor Program

What Will You Learn in the MS in Computer Science Program?

Cultivate computing and mathematics knowledge that translates into analytical problem-solving and innovative solutions. Master the design-implementation-evaluation cycle for computer-based systems, processes, components, and programs that align with your professional goals. Ground your expertise in professional, ethical, legal, security, and social frameworks that equip you for the responsibility of creating positive change in the world.

Through this rigorous program, you’ll study:

• Artificial intelligence
• Machine learning
• Natural language processing
• Bioinformatics
• Human and computer interaction
• Computer vision
• Computer graphics
• Computer education
• Big data
• Security and privacy
• Accessibility
• Parallel and distributed systems

Why Earn a CS Master’s Degree at WWU?

Faculty Committed to Your Success

In the computer science master’s degree program, you will learn from industry leaders who actively contribute to your growth in the classroom and beyond. Our dedicated expert faculty will inspire you to explore your interests and challenge you to engineer solutions to emerging problems in the technology field.

Cohort Style

The program provides a supportive and inclusive environment where you can forge lifelong friendships and expansive professional networks. Learning with your peers, you will build marketable teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.

Location Matters

WWU is uniquely situated to position you for computer science career opportunities in major metropolitan areas without the stress and traffic of full-time city life.

Program Curriculum and Courses

In WWU’s computer science master’s program, you will build high-level skills in operating systems, automata and formal language theory, algorithm analysis, and computer programming languages. In electives and research endeavors, you’ll hone your focus on the topics and experiences that will support your specific career goals.

MS in Computer Science Career Opportunities

A master’s degree in computer science opens doors to advanced career responsibilities and increased salaries—some roles averaging over $130,000 per year! WWU’s computer science graduates go on to thrive as programmers, administrators, developers, and researchers in both start-up and long-standing tech companies, advanced research laboratories and academia, and critical roles within local, regional, and federal governments.

Join our alumni at employers like Facebook, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Expedia, and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), or pursue advanced PhD studies at prestigious universities around the world.

Application Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree: Applicants must have already completed a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university, or an equivalent degree from a foreign university, before the term in which they intend to begin their WWU graduate program.
• Grade Point Average: To satisfy WWU Graduate School requirements, applicants must have a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) over all their post-secondary coursework. To satisfy Computer Science MS program requirements, applicants must have a cumulative 3.0 GPA.
• English Language Proficiency: Applicants must obtain at least the minimum TOEFL (86 IBT) or IELTS (7.0) unless English is their native language.

Applying without a CS Background

This program allows prospective students without a background in CS to apply. Accepted students will take a number of undergraduate classes to get them ready to take master’s-level classes. Acceptance is dependent on the space available in these undergraduate classes.

Applicants must have completed the following courses or their equivalent at the time of application:

• Basic programming: CSCI 141 (CS1) and CSCI 145 (CS2).
• Background in some or all of the following is also recommended:
  • Computer Systems: CSCI 247
  • Discrete Math and Formal Languages: CSCI 301
  • Data Structures: CSCI 241

Tuition and Cost

WWU’s competitive tuition structure costs approximately $25,000 for in-state students and $47,000 for out-of-state students. Make your education more affordable by applying for financial aid, grants, private scholarships, and our prestigious teaching and research assistantships.

Additional Application Requirements

• Three (3) Letters of Reference
• Please answer the following questions. The review committee will use your answers to evaluate your qualifications, experience, motivation, goals, enthusiasm, and research interests:
  • Why do you wish to pursue graduate study in CS (or a particular field in CS)?
  • What specific strengths and/or experience do you possess that will help you succeed in this endeavor?
  • How does this graduate degree relate to your future goals?
  • What skills and knowledge you hope to acquire with an MS in CS that will bridge the gap between where you are and where you would like to be?