Best Computer Science Master’s Degree 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.

Master of Science in Computer Science 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science 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 working on and evolving it throughout your classes. Students can design their own class schedule and choose to pursue a thesis or non-thesis program of study. 

Master of Science in Computer Science 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science 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.  

Master of Science in Computer Science 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science 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 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. 

Master of Science in Computer Science 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science 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. 

Master of Science in Computer Science 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science 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 will cover algorithms, databases, programming, and human-computer interaction, among other topics.

Master of Science in Computer Science 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science 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 standardized 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. 

Master of Science in Computer Science 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science 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 post-secondary transcripts 
3. Submit a copy of your professional resume 
4. Pay the $50 application fee

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.

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. 

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Master of Science in Computer Science 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science 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.   

Master of Science in Computer Science 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science 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
3. These required materials include three letters, a professional resume, personal history statement, unofficial transcripts, and a statement of purpose
4. Pay the application fee or submit a fee waiver request 
5. Submit your completed application document

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. 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. 

Master of Science in Computer Science and Software Engineering 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%

Master of Science in Computer Science and Software Engineering 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)

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: $139,428
• Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 33,000
• 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: $137,188
• Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 165,200
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Rhode Island, Delaware, Virginia, 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: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 33,000
• Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, Texas, Massachusetts, Washington

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: $128,451
• Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, New York, District of Columbia, Maryland

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

• Average Salary: $124,800
• Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 33,000
• Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, Texas, Massachusetts, Washington