Computer Science Graduate Programs

Computer science graduate students study the theory and practice of the computational process. It encompasses the structure and expression, as well as the processing, and communication of, information stored in computer memory. It draws from the fields of science, mathematics, and engineering, and can be applied to mechanisms ranging from cellular phones to weather forecasting systems. Computer science graduate students focus on the study of algorithms, which are specific problem-solving processes.

Search our directory of campus computer science graduate degree programs.

Search our directory of online computer science graduate degree programs.

Individuals considering attending a computer science graduate program should ideally possess the following qualities:

Strong background in math, science and engineering
Analytical thinker
Adept at problem solving
Highly curious

Computer Science Graduate Programs and Curriculum

Computer science graduate programs vary among schools. It’s important to ensure your personal research interests align with those at the schools to which you’re applying. A typical computer science graduate program might include the following courses:

Computer networking
Databases
Human-computer interaction
Mathematical foundations of computing
Programming methodology
Programming abstractions
Artificial intelligence
Network analysis
Cloud computing
Design and analysis of algorithms

Students can choose from a master’s in computer science or a Ph.D. in computer science. The average master’s program lasts from one to two years, and the average Ph.D. program takes four to six years to complete. Depending upon the program, completion of the master’s degree might involve a thesis or independent project. Completion of a computer science doctorate involves a passing grade on exams and a dissertation or independent project.

To apply to computer science graduate school, you will need to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Top computer science graduate programs often have a minimum GPA and standardized test score requirement. Many computer science graduate programs require transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and relevant test scores, including the TOEFL, if applicable. You might enhance your resume by participating in volunteer research, or professional work in your field, as well as having publications in scholarly journals.

Computer Science Career Path

Qualified computer scientists can pursue a variety of careers. Those holding a Ph.D. may find work as professors or researchers in a university setting. Other doctoral and master’s level professionals might work with business, governmental or scientific organizations, in areas ranging from traffic control to security to automobiles. The following are examples of popular computer science careers:

Computer scientist
Computer programmer
Computer systems designer
Software engineer
Network administrator

Computer Science Salary and Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2010, the median annual wage of computer and information research scientists was $100,660. The lowest 10% earned less than $57,630, and the top 10 percent earned over $153,120. The 2010 median pay for computer and information systems managers was $115,780. The same year, computer programmers earned a median of $71,380, and university professors earned a median salary of $62,050.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts between 2010 and 2020, employment of computer and information research scientists are expected to grow by 19%. This represents an average rate of growth.

Computer Science Salaries

Data according to

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm

Type: Online
Level: Certificate
Bryan University Online
E-Discovery Project Management Certificate
E-Discovery case law, collection, IT systems. Online, real-time classes where you can interact with instructors and students.
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Type: Campus

Level: Masters

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Southampton,Hampshire

University of Southampton

MSc Artificial Intelligence

Southampton University has pioneered many of the important advances in computer science and web technology of the past 10 yea...

This program is offered at multiple campus locations.
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Type: Online
Level: Masters
Stevenson University
Cyber Forensics
innovative accelerated master’s degree in Cyber Forensics
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Type: Campus
Level: Masters
Milwaukee,WI
Marquette University
Master of Science in Computing
The mission of the program is to prepare the IT leaders of tomorrow.
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Type: Campus
Level: Masters
Thousand Oaks,CA
California Lutheran University
Computer Science
The CLU MSCS program integrates advanced conceptual tools with a strong practical component for a broad range of technologies...
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Type: Campus
Level: Masters
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Albany,NY
College Of Saint Rose
Professional Science Masters (M.S.) Program in Computer Information Systems
A part-time, evening program designed for students with some experience in computer technology and programming who wish
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Type: Online
Level: Masters
Southern New Hampshire University Online
MBA in Quantitative Analysis
The 39-credit Master of Business Administration in Quantitative Analysis from Southern New Hampshire University prepares you ...
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Type: Campus
Level: Masters
Philadelphia,PA
La Salle University
Graduate Program in Computer Information Science
The core of this program provides a strong conceptual foundation in current computing topics, with a practical focus.
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Type: Campus
Level: Masters
Durham,NC
Duke University
Master of Engineering (M.Eng.)
Duke's Master of Engineering (MEng) encompasses strong technical depth in a chosen discipline supplemented with core business...
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Type: Campus
Level: Masters
Shippensburg,PA
Shippensburg University
Computer Science
Designed to accommodate students transitioning from other fields as well as those with a BS in computer science.
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Type: Campus
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Certificate
Masters
New Rochelle,NY
Iona College
Computer Science
Designed to prepare students for careers as computer science professionals.
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Type: Campus
Level: Masters
St. Paul,MN
Metropolitan State University
Computer Science (M.S.)
Innovative program designed to deepen your technical knowledge and prepare you for a career in the growing areas of computing...
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Level:
Certificate
Masters
Villanova,PA
Villanova University
Computing Sciences
We offer the MS degree in Computer Science, the MS degree in Software Engineering and several certificates.
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Level:
Doctorate
Masters
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Huntsville,AL
University of Alabama - Huntsville
Computer Engineering
Students applying for the master’s program in computer engineering are expected to have an undergraduate background in...
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Type: Campus
Level: Masters
Johnson City,TN
East Tennessee State University
Master of Science in Computer Science
The master of computer science program offers two concentrations: applied computer science and information technology.
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