Master’s in Computer Science Requirements: Everything You Need To Know

Pursuing an advanced degree in computer science can open up a world of opportunities and position you for success in today's competitive job market. This is especially true with the increasing number of partially or fully remote programs available across colleges and universities.

While the benefits of getting your master's are abundant, there can often be confusion surrounding the program's guidelines and requirements. So, let's explore what you can expect as you move toward achieving your computer science master's degree.

What Will You Learn in a Computer Science Graduate Program?

A master's in computer science program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the many components of computer science. This includes completing advanced coursework from your major area of study, major electives and optional focus areas.

This graduate program also allows you to narrow in on a niche area—a desirable option if you're looking to tailor your education to your specific interests and career goals.

While pursuing your master's, you can expect to gain expertise in areas such as:

• Systems and computer programming
• Computer architecture
• Data science and algorithm analysis
• Distributed systems
• Acceptance testing
• Artificial intelligence
  Database design and administration
• Advanced programming

It's important to note that the most beneficial computer science programs are continuously updated with the newest industry knowledge and skills. This ensures graduates leave with the highest level of technical expertise upon completing their degree.

Mastering these practical skills and advanced techniques is essential for excelling in advanced computer science fields.

Admission Requirements for a Master's in Computer Science Program
 

While the average GPA scores of students admitted to a CS program are not typically disclosed, many universities are adopting a more holistic approach to evaluating applicant qualifications. This includes considering additional factors, such as relevant work experience, an admission essay and a professional portfolio.

"GRE scores and letters of recommendation are not required [at Franklin],” says Dr. Chunbo Chu, chair of the B.S. and M.S. in computer science programs at Franklin University. “It's important to have all college transcripts, an up-to-date resume and a good application essay if your GPA is under 2.5."

It's no longer about having the highest GPA in the program, especially for a graduate school that is looking to support working adults through the completion of their graduate degree.

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Do You Need a Bachelor's in Computer Science to Get a Master's?

Many students are surprised to learn that the answer is no. While you do need an undergraduate degree to get into a master's program, it doesn't have to be a bachelor's degree in computer science.

Some universities offer alternative pathways for individuals with an unrelated bachelor's degree who want to pursue their master's in computer science. This may include taking and passing introductory courses, having the equivalent in relevant work experience or providing a well-rounded portfolio.

For example, at Franklin University, it’s necessary for students with a non-computer science background to complete three prerequisite courses as they move through their master’s. These include COMP 501 (Foundations of Programming), COMP 511 (Foundation Data Structure & Object Oriented Design), and MATH 503 (Foundations of Mathematics for Computing). 

According to Dr. Chu, these courses provide the necessary groundwork and skills for students without a CS bachelor’s to understand the master’s curriculum. This includes a strong foundation in algorithm analysis and design, proficiency in data structures, and a solid understanding of software development principles. These technical skills are essential for advanced study and research in the field.

Can You Take Elective Courses While Taking Computer Science Master's Programs?

One of the advantages of pursuing a master's in computer science is the flexibility to tailor the program to your interests. You can do this through a broad range of elective courses that offer specialized knowledge compared to the core courses alone.

You may also choose to streamline your area of focus, zoning in on specific niches such as cybersecurity, data analytics, and software systems. This unique data set can help you qualify for a multitude of specialized roles across various industries.

In addition to tailoring your program with elective courses, master's degree programs may also provide opportunities for students to gain practical, hands-on experience through internships. While they're not an intrinsic part of the coursework, they allow students to work alongside experienced professionals and build their professional network while finishing school.

Remember: tailoring the program to your personal interests and career goals can make the learning experience more engaging.

More importantly, it also enhances your marketability and preparedness for specific roles in the industry and helps you stand out amongst other working professionals who are also applying for jobs in high-demand areas.

How Long Will It Take to Earn Your Computer Science Degree?

The typical timeframe for completing a master's in computer science program varies depending on factors such as enrollment status (full-time or part-time) and educational background.

For working professionals or those with an unrelated bachelor's degree, many graduate-level schools offer the flexibility to pursue the program part-time.
 

While an M.S. in computer science can be completed in as few as 1-2 years, Dr. Chu reminds prospective students that this is only a guideline. 

“An MSCS requires 36 credit hours (or nine 4-credit courses) to graduate. I strongly advise students with non-technical backgrounds not to take more than two courses per term, especially the first few terms,” Chu said.

On average, this means that it may take around 4 to 5 terms to fulfill all necessary degree requirements.

Potential graduate students should take inventory of how much time they can commit to the program and plan appropriately. This may mean looking into a master's degree program that caters to busy, working adults and offers more work-life balance.

For example, work-friendly options, such as those at Franklin University, generally allow you to finish your M.S. in computer science degree in as few as 20 months without compromising your ability to keep earning. 

However, it’s still important to take time to explore your options and fully understand how much of a time commitment is expected before enrolling.

Is Getting a Master's in CS Difficult?

Pursuing a master's in computer science can be challenging. 

It requires a significant commitment of time and effort. However, with the proper preparation, support and determination, it's an achievable goal for those motivated to pursue it.

While the program is rigorous and demands a strong foundation in computer science concepts and technical skills, plenty of resources and academic support are often available to help students succeed.

Additionally, graduate programs that cater to working adults have designed a structured curriculum to accommodate the needs of busy professionals.
For those seeking more insights into the difficulty and potential challenges of pursuing a degree in this field, check out “How Hard is Computer Science?" It offers a comprehensive discussion on this topic so potential computer science students know precisely what they're signing up for.

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Your Master’s in Computer Science? 

If you're ready to embark on the journey toward a computer science master's and unlock a world of opportunities, Franklin University is here to support you every step of the way.

Visit the master's of computer science program page to learn more about the curriculum, admission requirements and how to apply.

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