Master in Computer Science (MSCS)
MSCS Overview
The Masters in Computer Science (MSCS) program is designed to make you a better thinker, a better programmer and a better system architect. It will also provide you with a good understanding of current technology. Our philosophy is to require you to master foundational topics and then let you specialize in application areas of your interest. You will gain a broad and deep understanding of many aspects of computer science, choosing among such fields as security and cryptography, graphics, scientific computing, programming languages, databases, networking, and distributed systems, to name a few. This may enable you to become a design lead in a complex multi-faceted project.
Requirements in a Nutshell
The MSCS degree is course-based. Students will take 10 graduate level courses for the 30 credit standard CS degree and 12 courses for the 36 credit option with concentration.
- Three foundational courses in algorithms, programming languages and operating systems
- Two courses in different designated application areas, such as graphics and databases.
- One course among the capstone courses that provide substantial programming exercises.
Apart from taking classes, one must also satisfy minimum GPA requirements. For a detailed description of the various requirements, please refer to the MSCS requirements page.
Sample Courses
Below is a small subset of the classes offered in the MSCS program. Please refer to course catalog and course schedule for the complete list of graduate classes offered.
Foundational classes
- CSCI-GA 1170 Fundamental Algorithms
- CSCI-GA 2110 Programming Languages
- CSCI-GA 2250 Operating Systems
Capstone classes
- CSCI-GA 2434 Advanced Database Systems
- CSCI-GA 2130 Compiler Construction
- CSCI-GA 2440 Software Engineering
- Other special topics classes
Other CS classes