New York Computer Science Masters Degree | Masters Programs in Computer Science

Pursuing a Masters in Computer Science on Campus Degree

Pursuing a master’s in computer science on-campus might provide a great way to enhance your personal and professional networks while you advance your studies. This format may give students the opportunity for face-to-face time with both professors and classmates, participate in college campus activities, and have access to all the amenities. Whether you use the athletic facilities, the libraries, laboratories, or social services, this may be the balance you need to sitting in front of a computer for long periods!

HELPFUL HINT:  Ensure you have a good chair and proper lighting. This can help you from overstraining your eyes, wrists, hands, and shoulders. An ergonomically designed keyboard is a plus!

Masters in Computer Science on Campus​ Program Curriculum

There are different Computer Science graduate programs that might appeal to students. Some are designed to help students develop a broad understanding of computer technologies, strong problem-solving, analytical and critical-thinking skills. Others may be geared to the more business-minded students and teach communication or managerial skills, business dynamics and technical education. Others might help prepare students to pursue more research based or academic professions in computer science.

Depending on the program concentration and school, core courses can vary. Some of the topics that students might expect to learn about in a Master of Science in Computer Science graduate program include subjects such as:

• Database and data mining
• Networking
• Theoretical computing concepts
• Applied computer science
• Algorithms, programming
• Logical reasoning / computational thinking skills
• Problem-solving
• Operating systems
• Computer system architecture
• Software system engineering
• Cloud computing
• Cyber security

Potential Career Paths For Computer Science Graduates

There are a variety of potential career paths that graduates earning masters in computer science may pursue, depending on level of education and experience as well as any area of specialized focus, whether creative, analytical or administrative. Some of these options might include:

• Computer and Information Research Scientists: invent and design new approaches to computing technology and find innovative uses for existing technology. They also study and solve complex problems in computing for business, medicine, science, and other related fields^[i]
• Computer and Information Systems Managers: often called IT managers (Information Technology) or IT project managers, they plan, coordinate and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They also help to determine and implement the information technology goals of an organization^[iv]
• Computer Hardware Engineers: research, design, develop, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks and routers. By creating new directions in computer hardware, these engineers create rapid advances in computer technology^[v]
• Computer Network Architects: design and build communication networks including intranets, LANs (local area networks) and WANs (wide area networks)^[vi]
• Computer Systems Analysts: study an organization’s current computer systems and procedures and design information systems solutions to help the organization operate more efficiently and effectively. They bring business and IT together by understanding the needs and limitations of both^[vii]
• Database Administrators: DBAs use specialized software to store and organize data, such as financial information, and make sure this is both accessible to users and safe from unauthorized access^[viii]
• New potential career trends to watch: Growth in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and mobile networks will increase demand for workers with computer systems, information technology, and computer programming skills^[ix]

Ready to Pursue your Masters in Computer Science on Campus degree?

A Master’s in computer science may be a rewarding academic path and great preparation for pursuit of a number of different potential career paths. There are programs designed to help students prepare to pursue different goals and aspirations, whether you are more interested in technology, analytics, design or business. Start your search for the campus computer science master degree programs on GradSchools.com to find the one that fits you!

Sources: [i] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm | [iii] en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_science | [iv] bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm | [v] bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/computer-hardware-engineers.htm | [vi] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm | [vii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm | [viii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm | [ix] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm