A master’s degree in computer science provides students with a foundation for advanced computer and information technology careers. Students graduate with a thorough understanding of computer science topics, including software design, programming, informatics, and technology development. Graduates go on to work as game designers, artificial intelligence specialists, information systems managers, and software developers.
Computer and information technology jobs are growing faster than average, with 377,500 openings projected yearly. The annual median income for this sector is $104,420, but salary will depend on the industry, position, and location. Web developers and digital designers have a median annual income of $92,750, while information research scientists have a median wage of $145,080.
Master’s programs in computer science often require between 30 and 60 credits for graduation, with most students completing the program with two years of full-time study. However, part-time or accelerated programs are also available. The average annual tuition and fees for master’s programs is $19,749. Students who require on-campus housing can expect to pay more.
How to Choose a Master’s in Computer Science Program
Choose your area of study
Due to the heavy focus on technology, mathematics, science, and engineering involved in computer science, most programs are offered as a Master of Science. This type of degree focuses on developing students’ analytical and technical skills required in their future careers.
Students can choose a degree specialization that aligns with their career goals. The program coursework is tailored to this area and prepares students with the skills to excel in this field. Common specializations include:
Research schools and programs
When researching schools, look for those accredited by a recognized association, such as the Higher Learning Commission, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, or the New England Commission of Higher Education. Accreditation ensures that the school provides a high-quality education recognized by employers, government agencies, and other institutions.
Many master’s in computer science programs are also programmatically accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. Programmatic accreditation indicates that the program curriculum meets a set quality standard and adequately prepares students for their future careers.
Gather information about potential schools and programs using various methods. You can visit the schools in person to attend campus tours or open houses, browse their websites, and follow them on social media. You can also speak with an admissions advisor or program representative to gather more information on the program and school culture.
Prepare for tests and applications
The admission requirements for a master’s in computer science will vary by institution and program. However, most will require you to have completed a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, information technology, or a related field. You will also likely be asked to submit the following:
- Transcripts showing a GPA of 3.0 or higher
- A resume
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
International students or those who speak English as a second language must also submit an English proficiency assessment. Before applying, review the admissions website carefully to ensure you have all the required materials. You can also speak with an admissions advisor to learn more about the application process and requirements.
Select your program
If you’re accepted to multiple programs, review your career goals and logistical needs before deciding. Choose the option that best prepares you for your future goals and aligns with your lifestyle. Consider the following:
- Is the program full-time or part-time?
- Is it in-person or online?
- Are the classes synchronous or asynchronous?
- Do they have on-campus housing?
- Is the campus easily accessible?
If you need guidance in narrowing your options, speak with an academic advisor. They’ll review the programs and help you find the best fit.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Create an annual budget to determine if you can pay for your graduate program yourself or if you require financial assistance. Include the following:
- Tuition
- Fees
- Supplies
- Housing
- Transportation
- Living expenses
Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine the total amount of financial aid you’re eligible for, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study funds. You can also ask the school if they offer fellowships or assistantships that provide tuition assistance.
Best 50 Accredited Master’s in Computer Science Degree Programs
intelligent score 99.88
Award
Rankings
#1 Computer Science Degree Hub
#4 College Factual
#4 Master's Programs Guide
#5 College Choice
#30 College Rank
School Information
Ithaca, NY
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 9%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
34
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,735
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
607-255-8593
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
34
intelligent score 99.32
Award
Rankings
#1 College Factual
#2 Master's Programs Guide
#3 Computer Science Degree Hub
#7 College Choice
#32 College Rank
School Information
Stanford, CA
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 4%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,356 - $1,391
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
650-723-2300
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
intelligent score 98.5
Award
Rankings
#2 College Rank
#7 ComputerScience.org
#7 Computer Science Degree Hub
#18 College Factual
#22 College Choice
School Information
Berkeley, CA
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 14%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $817
Non-Resident: $1,633
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
510-642-3214
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 98.49
Award
Rankings
#1 Master's Programs Guide
#5 College Rank
#5 Computer Science Degree Hub
#11 College Choice
School Information
Atlanta, GA
Graduation Rate: 90%
Admission Rate: 16%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $586
Non-Resident: $1,215
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
404-894-3152
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 98.14
Award
Rankings
#4 College Rank
#5 ComputerScience.org
#12 Computer Science Degree Hub
#13 College Choice
School Information
Los Angeles, CA
Graduation Rate: 92%
Admission Rate: 11%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,007
Non-Resident: $1,846
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
310-825-0060
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 97.06
Award
Rankings
#1 College Choice
#4 Computer Science Degree Hub
School Information
New Haven, CT
Graduation Rate: 97%
Admission Rate: 5%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,610
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
203-432-4440
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 96.84
Award
Rankings
#5 College Factual
#6 College Choice
#9 Computer Science Degree Hub
#28 College Rank
School Information
New York, NY
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 4%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,462
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
212-853-8400
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 95.76
Award
Rankings
#7 Master's Programs Guide
#8 Computer Science Degree Hub
#9 College Factual
#15 College Choice
School Information
Pittsburgh, PA
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 14%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$756
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
412-268-2565
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
intelligent score 94.03
Award
Rankings
#8 College Rank
#10 Computer Science Degree Hub
School Information
Ann Arbor, MI
Graduation Rate: 93%
Admission Rate: 20%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,920
Non-Resident: $3,431
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
734-647-8047
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 93.07
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chapel Hill, NC
Graduation Rate: 90%
Admission Rate: 20%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $586
Non-Resident: $1,602
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-590-6000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 90.10
Award
Rankings
School Information
Durham, NC
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$3,631
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-660-6536
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 89.23
Award
Rankings
School Information
Champaign, IL
Graduation Rate: 86%
Admission Rate: 60%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$686
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
217-333-4428
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32
intelligent score 88.53
Award
Rankings
School Information
La Jolla, CA
Graduation Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: 34%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
40-48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $789 - $947
Non-Resident: $1,418 - $1,702
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
858-534-9844
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
40-48
intelligent score 87.52
Award
Rankings
School Information
Los Angeles, CA
Graduation Rate: 93%
Admission Rate: 13%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,424
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
213-740-4488
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32
intelligent score 87.44
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chicago, IL
Graduation Rate: 95%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36-48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,318
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
773-834-3388
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36-48
intelligent score 87.31
Award
Rankings
School Information
Evanston, IL
Graduation Rate: 95%
Admission Rate: 7%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,917
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
847-491-3500
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
intelligent score 87.13
Award
Rankings
School Information
Austin, TX
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 29%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,248
Non-Resident: $1,913
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
512-232-7404
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 85.95
Award
Rankings
School Information
New York, NY
Graduation Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 13%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,335
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
646-997-3182
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 85.71
Award
Rankings
School Information
Irvine, CA
Graduation Rate: 86%
Admission Rate: 29%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
52
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$844
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
949-824-5158
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
52
intelligent score 85.67
Award
Rankings
School Information
Davis, CA
Graduation Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: 49%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $681
Non-Resident: $1,520
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
530-752-7004
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 85.25
Award
Rankings
School Information
Nashville, TN
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 7%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,281
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
615-343-3128
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 84.13
Award
Rankings
School Information
Washington, DC
Graduation Rate: 95%
Admission Rate: 12%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,550
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
202-687-5874
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 83.16
Award
Rankings
School Information
West Lafayette, IN
Graduation Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 69%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $347
Non-Resident: $948
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
765-494-6004
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 81.64
Award
Rankings
School Information
College Park, MD
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 52%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $828
Non-Resident: $1,805
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
301-405-3644
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 81.41
Award
Rankings
School Information
Madison, WI
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 60%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $670
Non-Resident: $1,503
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
608-262-1204
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 80.27
Award
Rankings
School Information
Houston, TX
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 9%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,667
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
713-348-4834
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 80.08
Award
Rankings
School Information
Gainesville, FL
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 30%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $530
Non-Resident: $1,255
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
352-392-1090
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 80.07
Award
Rankings
School Information
Santa Barbara, CA
Graduation Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 29%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $584
Non-Resident: $1,303
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
805-893-4321
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
intelligent score 78.95
Award
Rankings
School Information
Providence, RI
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,537
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
401-863-7600
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 78.46
Award
Rankings
School Information
Hanover, NH
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,769
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
603-646-2206
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 78.38
Award
Rankings
School Information
Minneapolis, MN
Graduation Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 73%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,593
Non-Resident: $2,465
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
612-625-4002
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
intelligent score 77.71
Award
Rankings
School Information
College Station, TX
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 64%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $717
Non-Resident: $1,259
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
979-458-3870
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 77.22
Award
Rankings
School Information
New Brunswick, NJ
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 68%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $894
Non-Resident: $1,414
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
848-445-7474
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 75.69
Award
Rankings
School Information
Tampa, FL
Graduation Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 49%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $429 - $431
Non-Resident: $875 - $877
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
813-974-3652
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 75.39
Award
Rankings
School Information
Columbus, OH
Graduation Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 57%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $821
Non-Resident: $2,554
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
614-292-5813
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
intelligent score 75.23
Award
Rankings
School Information
Saint Louis, MO
Graduation Rate: 93%
Admission Rate: 13%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,284
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
314-935-6132
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 75.15
Award
Rankings
School Information
University Park, PA
Graduation Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 92%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,061
Non-Resident: $1,875
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
814-865-9505
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 74.98
Award
Rankings
School Information
Blacksburg, VA
Graduation Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 56%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $846
Non-Resident: $1,705
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
540-231-0746
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 74.93
Award
Rankings
School Information
Charlottesville, VA
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 21%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,103
Non-Resident: $1,878
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
434-982-2200
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
intelligent score 74.44
Award
Rankings
School Information
Amherst, MA
Graduation Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 66%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $2,187
Out-of-State: $4,353
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
413-545-2744
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 74.10
Award
Rankings
School Information
Raleigh, NC
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 47%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $525
Non-Resident: $1,635
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-515-8662
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
intelligent score 73.62
Award
Rankings
School Information
Stony Brook, NY
Graduation Rate: 76%
Admission Rate: 48%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $471
Non-Resident: $1,020
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
631-632-8470
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
intelligent score 73.41
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fullerton, CA
Graduation Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 59%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $368
Non-Resident: $788
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
657-278-3700
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 73.25
Award
Rankings
School Information
Medford, MA
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 11%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,730
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
617-627-2225
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 72.09
Award
Rankings
School Information
Bloomington, IN
Graduation Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $717
Non-Resident: $2,049
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
812-855-6486
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 72.07
Award
Rankings
School Information
Hoboken, NJ
Graduation Rate: 87%
Admission Rate: 53%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,930
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
888-511-1306
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
intelligent score 71.82
Award
Rankings
School Information
Washington, DC
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 50%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,130
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
202-994-7181
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 71.71
Award
Rankings
School Information
Buffalo, NY
Graduation Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: 70%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $471
Non-Resident: $1,011
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
716-645-3180
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 71.31
Award
Rankings
School Information
Pullman, WA
Graduation Rate: 64%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $682
Non-Resident: $1,463
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
509-335-6602
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 70.77
Award
Rankings
School Information
Worcester, MA
Graduation Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: 60%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,610
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
508-831-5000
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
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How we rank schools
This list features some of the best master’s in computer science degree programs at top colleges across the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation, as well as the student resources provided for on-campus students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of master’s in computer science degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Computer Science Program
A master’s degree in computer science provides students with a thorough understanding of advanced computing, hardware, networking, software development, and internet communications. Students will graduate from the program with the technical, management, and interpersonal skills to excel in high-level careers in computer science.
Students will take a combination of core coursework and electives tailored to their chosen specialization. Common learning concepts include software development, computer systems, algorithms, machine learning, cloud computing, and software security. Learning methods include lectures, coursework, research projects, labs, and exams. Some programs will also conclude with a practicum or thesis.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in computer science program
- Fundamentals of the Design and Analysis of Algorithms. Students will cover the fundamental concepts of algorithm design and analysis. The main topics include dynamic programming, divide-and-conquer strategies, NP-completeness, and deterministic and randomized graph algorithms.
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence. This course covers the study of theories and computational models for intelligent systems. Students will discuss the subdisciplines of artificial intelligence, including deduction, planning, reasoning, language comprehension, knowledge systems, and learning.
- Principles of Scientific Computing. Students will review the principles and methods of numerical and scientific computing. Course topics will include the basic concepts of computational methods in algebra, probability, and optimization.
- Computer and Systems Security. This course covers the latest security research in software, including protocols, mobile devices, machine learning, emerging systems, sensors, and intelligent transportation.
- Principles of Data Management. The key principles of data management systems will be discussed, including storage management, file systems, buffer management, access methods, query processing, and optimization.
Master’s in Computer Science Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in computer science degree program?
The application requirements for a master’s in computer science degree vary by school and program. Review the application website carefully to determine each school’s requirements and deadlines. Most programs require you to submit your undergraduate transcripts, a resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Speak with an admissions advisor before submitting your application to ensure you have all the necessary materials.
How much does a master's in computer science degree cost?
The average annual cost for a master’s degree in computer science is $19,749. The program cost will depend on the institution, supplies required, and student living expenses. Students who opt for on-campus housing will see a higher annual fee. However, students who enroll in online programs or part-time learning may incur lower yearly expenses.
How long does it take to earn a master's in computer science degree?
The time required to complete a master’s in computer science degree will vary by program. Most consist of 30 to 60 credits that students must complete to graduate, usually over two years of full-time study. Some institutions offer part-time, asynchronous, or online learning options that provide more flexibility for students who cannot commit to full-time studies. However, these learning methods may require more time to complete the program.