Best Computer Science Master’s Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Boston University is a private research university originally founded in Vermont in 1839 before moving to Boston in 1867. The school offers housing and transportation options to its graduate students. Students can also join athletic teams, explore the arts, and participate in fitness and wellness programs. There are also on-campus employment opportunities for master’s degree students.

Master of Science in Computer Science

While studying for an MS in Computer Science at Boston University, you’ll cover advanced coursework and learn software development, data management, network security, and databases. If you don’t have programming experience, there are foundational courses in C++ and Java available. Students can choose to specialize in cyber security or data-centric computing.

Program Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition and Fees: $1,968/credit (part-time); $30,962/semester (full-time)
• Required Credits: 32 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters
• Learning Format: On campus
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 89%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: No official minimum requirement (3.0 or above is preferred)
• Standardized Tests: GRE
• Application Fee: $95 
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a relevant field
• Other Requirements: Statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts

Applying to Boston University

1. Apply online
2. Pay the application fee
3. Submit official transcripts from any undergraduate or graduate programs you’ve attended
4. Submit three professional or academic letters of recommendation
5. Submit a personal statement

Carnegie Mellon University is a private research university founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1900. It’s known for its innovations and research initiatives. It also has many notable alumni, including actor Ted Danson. Carnegie Mellon University offers scholarships and fellowships among other financial aid resources to its students.

Master of Science in Computer Science

If you earned a computer science bachelor’s degree at Carnegie Mellon University, this is the next step for you. You’ll start by working on a hands-on project and continue making progress on it throughout your classes. Students can design their own class schedule and choose to pursue a thesis or non-thesis program of study. 

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition and Fees: $727/credit
• Required Credits: 32 credits
• Program Length: 3 semesters
• Learning Format: On campus
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 93%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement listed
• Standardized Tests: GRE (not required but highly recommended)
• Application Fee: $125  
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: Professional resume, unofficial transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose

Applying to Carnegie Mellon University

1. Complete the graduate application
2. Pay the application fee or submit a fee waiver request
3. Submit GRE scores 
4. Submit unofficial transcripts and a professional resume or CV
5. Submit three letters of recommendation
6. Write and submit your statement of purpose

The College of Saint Rose was founded in 1920 as a women’s college but has been a co-ed school since 1969. The school offers career services and on-campus resources to its graduate students. Its Albany campus gives students access to tons of green space just a few hours away from New York City. 

Master of Science in Computer Science

Helping students become experts in the computer science field, this program allows you to change your learning format weekly. You can also tailor the program to your schedule and enjoy small class sizes of 14 students per cohort. You can take advantage of resources like career support, counseling, student resources, and leadership opportunities.  

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition and Fees: $846/credit
• Required Credits: 33 credits
• Program Length: 1 year
• Learning Format: On campus, online, or hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 59%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: No requirement
• Application Fee: None 
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a related field
• Other Requirements: 300-word statement of purpose, professional resume, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts 

Applying to The College of Saint Rose

1. Complete and submit an online application
2. Submit your resume and a 300-word statement of purpose
3. Submit an official transcript as proof of having attended a post-secondary degree program
4. Submit two letters of recommendation

Cornell University is one of eight Ivy League universities in the US. It was founded in 1865 and opened its doors to students in 1868. As of Fall 2021, there were a total of 25,582 students at the university, nearly 10,000 of whom are enrolled in master’s or professional degree programs. Cornell University has an impressive research board and hosts many events to help students establish professional networks.

Master of Science in Computer Science

This highly selective program covers advanced coursework while working in a research environment. Students can become teaching assistants and receive a stipend along with full tuition. A written thesis and thesis presentation are required for students to graduate from this program. 

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition and Fees: This program is fully funded for admitted students
• Required Credits: 34 credits
• Program Length: 4 semesters
• Learning Format: On campus
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 95%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement (accepted applicants have high GPAs between 3.5 and 4.2)
• Standardized Tests: No requirement
• Application Fee: None 
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science
• Other Requirements: Transcripts from previous colleges, three letters of recommendation, essay, proof of excellence as an undergraduate teaching assistant

Applying to Cornell University

1. You must submit an online application that includes all of the required elements
2. Submit official transcripts from all colleges attended prior to your application
3. Send in three letters of recommendation
4. Write and submit an essay explaining how the program and thesis will aid your career trajectory
5. Submit proof of excellence as an undergraduate TA

Drexel University has a history dating back to 1891, although the school did not begin granting degrees until 1914 with its first Bachelor of Science program. It has a total student population of over 23,000 and over 8,000 graduate and professional students. Drexel University has more than 200 degree programs offered by 15 colleges and schools within the university. 

Master of Science in Computer Science

Drexel University allows students to customize their master’s program around their schedule and career goals. For students who don’t meet the entry requirements, there is foundational coursework available. On-campus learners can access career support, research resources, and learning guidance. 

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition and Fees: $1,342/credit
• Required Credits: 45 credits
• Program Length: 2 - 3 years
• Learning Format: On campus or online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: No requirement (GRE is recommended for those applying with a GPA lower than 3.0)
• Application Fee: None 
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: Official transcripts, two or three letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, professional resume 

Applying to Drexel University

1. Submit official transcripts from previously attended universities or colleges
2. Submit a copy of your current professional resume
3. Two letters of recommendation are required and three are recommended
4. Complete your statement of purpose/personal essay
5. Submit your completed online application

Georgia Institute of Technology is a public research university. It was founded in 1885 and in 1961 it became the first in the deep south to admit Black students. It is known for its focus on research and the transition to an information economy. Students in every program will find events, career support, tutoring, and advising available to them. 

Master of Science in Computer Science

Georgia Institute of Technology grants students the choice to complete one of three options to earn their master’s degree. You can select a program option, a thesis option, or a course option, and each has the same credit hours. You can also choose from 11 specializations. Courses cover algorithms, databases, programming, and human-computer interaction, among other topics.

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition and Fees: $180/credit
• Required Credits: 30 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: On campus or online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 91%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: GRE
• Application Fee: $75 
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree 
• Other Requirements: Online application, three recommendation letters, statement of purpose 

Applying to Georgia Institute of Technology

1. Complete an online application
2. Send in your official transcripts from previously attended colleges or universities 
3. Submit GRE test scores
4. Submit a personal statement
5. Send in three letters of recommendation

Nova Southeastern University was founded in 1964 as a graduate-level institution offering degrees in the physical and social sciences. The school now offers 287 bachelor’s, master’s, and professional degree programs. According to its official website, Nova Southeastern University has the sixth-largest number of minority master’s degree graduates in the US.

Master of Science in Computer Science

For this master’s degree program, you can choose one of six concentrations to study. These concentrations include artificial intelligence, software engineering, data science, real-world computing, computer systems, and information assurance and cyber security. Each one is an ideal choice if you want to get a job in tech. 

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition and Fees: $905/credit
• Required Credits: 30 credits
• Program Length: 1 year
• Learning Format: On campus or online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 62%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.5
• Standardized Tests: No requirement
• Application Fee: $50 
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: Official transcripts, professional resume, 

Applying to Nova Southeastern University

1. Submit an online application
2. Send in copies of your official postsecondary transcripts 
3. Submit a copy of your professional resume 
4. Pay the $50 application fee

This private research university in California is one of the largest in the US, enrolling more than 17,000 students. Founded in 1885, nowadays this school is recognized globally as a top university. It ranks second on US News’ list of best graduate schools for computer science in the world.

Computer Science MS Degree

This terminal degree from the prestigious institution Stanford University would stand out on anyone’s resume. There are 10 specialization areas, including artificial intelligence, biocomputation, computer and network security, and human-computer interaction. 

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Program Overview

• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
• Tuition and Fees: $1400/unit (each course ranges from 3-5 units)
• Required Credits: To earn a degree, you must complete 45 units
• Program Length: 1-2 years (full-time); 3-5 years (part-time)
• Learning Format: Most courses offered only on campus but the degree can be completed online depending on several factors
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 96%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum GPA requirement
• Standardized Tests: Test scores are not considered for admission
• Application Fee: $90
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree 
• Other Requirements: Official transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, professional resume

Applying to Stanford University

1. Review eligibility requirements and make sure you meet them
2. Prepare transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume, and other required documents
3. Submit your application online and pay the application fee
4. Await a decision. The admissions committee will review your application and notify you of the decision via email

University of Alabama at Birmingham was founded as an extension of the University of Alabama in 1936 and became an autonomous university within the University of Alabama system in 1969. There are around 22,000 students enrolled at the school as of 2021, 33 percent of whom are graduate students. This is one of the best computer science schools in Alabama.

Master of Science in Computer Science

Non-thesis and thesis options are available for this degree program, and you’ll cover 30 credit hours. There are many prerequisite courses for prospective students who don’t fulfill the requirements, such as programming, software engineering, data structures, and algorithms. You can become a cyber security engineer, software developer, or data scientist. 

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition and Fees: $450/credit (in-state); $1,066/credit (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 30 credits
• Program Length: 1.5 years
• Learning Format: On campus
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 61%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: No requirement 
• Application Fee: $50 
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, official transcripts, online application, academic background in computer science and math

Applying to University of Alabama at Birmingham

1. Complete an online application
2. Have your recommenders submit their letters through an online portal or via mail
3. Submit a copy of your official transcripts
4. Include a study plan and proof of a math and/or computer science academic background in your application
5. Proof of class ranking is not required but is highly recommended you submit one

University of California, Berkeley is a huge advocate for diversity and inclusion, allowing people of all ethnicities and backgrounds to gain their master’s degree in a comfortable place. You'll receive dedicated guidance like mentoring, leadership, management, and career support. This is one of the best schools in the country to get a master’s degree.

Master of Science in Computer Science

This program focuses on research and hands-on experience as most students go on to pursue a PhD after graduating from the master’s degree program. Students must participate in individual research, and can choose to complete their program through either a capstone and thesis or a capstone and master’s project.   

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Schools Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Tuition and Fees: $10,223/semester (resident); $17,773/semester (non-resident)
• Required Credits: 24 credits
• Program Length: 1 - 2 years
• Learning Format: On campus
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 92%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: No requirement 
• Application Fee: $70 
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: Three letters of recommendation, resume, personal history statement, unofficial transcripts, statement of purpose 

Applying to University of California, Berkeley

1. Open your online application 
2. Upload the required materials, which include three letters, a professional resume, a personal history statement, unofficial transcripts, and a statement of purpose
3. Pay the application fee or submit a fee waiver request 
4. Submit your completed application document 

Located in Irvine, California, UCI is a public university ranked consistently among the best in the country. It takes the eighth spot on US News’ list of top public universities in the country and it is 34th overall. 

Master of Computer Science

This full-time degree emphasizes practice, with the students often engaging in lab exercises and projects. There are two capstone courses taught in the Spring. Importantly, students receive career coaching throughout the program to ensure plenty of job opportunities open up upon graduation. 

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
• Tuition and Fees: $52,290 (full program fee)
• Required Credits: 52 units
• Program Length: 15 months
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 84%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: You must present GRE scores, although the official page does not mention a minimum score. Only the General exam is required
• Application Fee: $120 for domestic candidates; $140 for international
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: One year of programming in C++, Java, Python, or C, or equivalent of professional experience

Applying to University of California, Irvine

1. Review the program to make sure you meet the requirements, including having the necessary programming experience
2. Gather the necessary documents, which include unofficial transcripts, official test scores, and three letters of recommendation
3. Write a statement of purpose to express your goals and why this program is right for you.
4. Apply online and pay the application fee
5. Wait for a response from the admissions office

Located in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana, this is a public land-grant research university. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ranks as the fifth-best graduate school for computer science according to US News. The school stands at the cutting edge of computing innovation and has a faculty composed of 120 members.

MS in Computer Science

This is a research-focused degree that can count toward your PhD. Core academic areas include Architecture, Compilers, Parallel Computing; Artificial Intelligence; Bioinformatics and Computational Biology; and Computers and Education, to name a few. Students must complete a thesis and are responsible for finding their own thesis advisor.

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition and Fees: $14,292/year for residents; $25,992/year for non-residents
• Required Credits: 32 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 85%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: GRE is recommended but not required
• Application Fee: $70
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: Thesis research

Applying to University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

1. Review application and admissions requirements
2. Check the application deadline and plan accordingly
3. Submit supporting documents, including unofficial transcripts, letters of recommendation, academic statement of purpose, resume, and test scores
4. Pass the Data Structures Proficiency Exam (recommended for applicants to the Online MCS or MCS in Data Science who lack relevant coursework)
5. Wait for a response from the admissions team

With a large student population of over 50,000 and a faculty of more than 3,000, the University of Texas at Austin ranks 38th on the US News’ list of best universities. The school boasts some of the top computer science master's programs in the nation, coming in at number 11 for computer science and number 10 for computer systems in the US News ranking.

Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS)

This degree offers two options. Students can complete their MSCS with a thesis or without it. In either case, the program is highly selective and receives many strong applicants each year. For students interested in a professional master's degree, the department offers online programs in computer science, artificial intelligence, and data science.

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition and Fees: $12,050/year (in-state); $22,944 (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 30 hours of coursework
• Program Length: 1.5 - 2 years
• Learning Format: In-person; online options for professional master’s degrees only
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 88%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: No minimum GRE score
• Application Fee: $75
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: Statement of purpose, transcripts, and letters of reference

Applying to University of Texas at Austin

1. Apply online
2. Submit a statement of purpose, transcripts, three letters of reference, test scores, and CV (optional)
3. Request that ETS send your official GRE test scores to UT-Austin (international students must also send the official score report for the TOEFL or IELTS)
4. Wait for a response from the admissions team.

University of Washington Bothell is a satellite campus of the University of Washington located in the Seattle metropolitan area. This campus was established in 1989 and is now home to over 6,000 students enrolled in more than 55 undergraduate and graduate programs. About 66 percent of its graduate students complete their programs debt-free.

Master of Science in Computer Science and Software Engineering

If you’re looking for an in-person master’s degree focusing on software engineering and computer science, look no further. You can study part-time or full-time while solving real-world computing problems. Students will find career support services, counseling, and disability services on campus. 

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges
• Tuition and Fees: $6,683/quarter (resident); $11,646/quarter (non-resident)
• Required Credits: 46 - 49 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: On campus
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 63%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: GRE
• Application Fee: $85 
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: Unofficial transcripts, personal statement, two or three letters of recommendation, updated resume, research essay

Applying to University of Washington Bothell

1. Apply through the UW Graduate School application
2. Pay the application fee
3. Submit your unofficial undergraduate transcripts
4. Submit a 300 - 1,000 word research essay
5. Submit a personal statement answering two out of five questions listed on the application website
6. Submit two to three professional or academic letters of recommendation
7. Submit GRE test scores (waived for Fall 2022 applicants)

Located in beautiful Seattle, the University of Washington provides an education to over 57,000 students each year. This public research institution was founded in 1861 and currently holds the seventh spot in US News’s ranking of best universities in the US. The Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering recruits top computing professionals from across the region.

Master of Science in Computer Science & Engineering

This degree will expand your software development knowledge in a wide range of topics, including artificial intelligence, computer graphics, and programming languages. The program is designed for professionals who want to grow in their careers to access higher salaries and better opportunities. This degree is very flexible, with evening classes once per week and colloquia that can be attended remotely.

Program Overview

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Tuition and Fees: $1056/credit
• Required Credits: 40 credit hours
• Program Length: 2.5 - 3 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 84%

Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: No GRE score required
• Application Fee: $80
• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Other Requirements: Experience with advanced computing technology and programming

Applying to University of Washington Seattle

1. Apply online
2. Provide the following materials: academic history, recommendation letters, resume or CV, personal statement, academic background form, and proof of English proficiency
3. Pay the application fee and submit your application
4. You’ll be notified of the results via email within 3-4 weeks

Data science managers oversee data science teams and ensure they accurately handle data. You'll also coordinate data engineering teams and help teams make optimal conclusions from data. If you have extensive experience in the field, a data science management position is a great option.

• Average Salary: $142,607
• Job Outlook: 21% job growth from 2021 to 2031*
• Number of Jobs: 33,500
• Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, Texas, Massachusetts, Washington

Working as an enterprise architect, you’ll apply techniques to secure systems and ensure a business's network infrastructure works as intended. You must have a broad understanding of cyber security and network systems for this career, and it’s incredibly rewarding if you have the right knowledge. 

• Average Salary: $140,891
• Job Outlook: 4% job growth from 2021 to 2031
• Number of Jobs: 174,800
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Rhode Island, Delaware, Virginia, Maryland

Software architects lead software design projects and oversee all development teams. You’ll record and document every component of an application or software product and find software solutions. You’ll also create software as part of a team, depending on the structure of the software department.

• Average Salary: $132,420
• Job Outlook: 25% job growth from 2021 to 2031
• Number of Jobs: 1,622,200
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, New York, District of Columbia, Maryland

Computer and information research scientists work with database design, algorithm design, data science, and similar concepts. Experts in this field must develop improved methods for computing processes and systems. This is one of the best career options because of its high salary.

• Average Salary: $131,490
• Job Outlook: 21% job growth from 2021 to 2031*
• Number of Jobs: 33,500
• Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, Texas, Massachusetts, Washington 

AI engineers work in the machine learning department of companies. These professionals program and train complex algorithms so they can imitate the human brain. You must have knowledge of deep learning, programming, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science to fulfill these tasks. 

• Average Salary: $118,668
• Job Outlook: 21% job growth from 2021 to 2031*
• Number of Jobs: 33,500
• Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, Texas, Massachusetts, Washington