Page Content
Online Master’s in Computer Science
A master’s in computer science teaches students expert-level, in-demand computer and information technology concepts. In the computer and information technology field, a master’s degree proves a combination of education and experience, leading to many high-growth career opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information research scientists are projected to see a 16% job growth rate from 2018-2028. To secure this lucrative position, applicants must have at least a master’s degree in computer science.
This page explores various online master’s in computer science programs, the courses students can expect to take while earning their master’s degree, and some of the career outcomes for graduates.
Best Online Master’s in Computer Science Programs
When comparing computer science programs, it is important to consider factors such as cost, program length, class size, graduation rate, program outcomes, and quality. Our methodology takes all these factors into consideration, and more.
| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Georgia Institute of Technology 225 North Ave, Atlanta, Georgia 30332 | $14,064 | 87% |
| #2 North Carolina State University 2101 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695 | $9,095 | 81% |
| #3 University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820-5711 | $14,997 | 84% |
| #4 University of Southern California University Park, Los Angeles, California 90089 | $46,272 | 92% |
| #5 Columbia University West 116 St and Broadway, New York, New York 10027 | $47,600 | 96% |
| #6 Illinois Institute of Technology 10 West 35th Street, Chicago, Illinois 60616 | $29,487 | 72% |
| #7 University of Minnesota, Twin Cities 100 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455 | $17,580 | 80% |
| #8 Colorado State University 102 Administration Building, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 | $10,520 | 71% |
| #9 Stevens Institute of Technology Castle Point On Hudson, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030 | $36,680 | 87% |
| #10 Syracuse University 900 South Crouse Ave., Syracuse, New York 13244 | $38,880 | 83% |
| #11 Stanford University Stanford, California 94305 | $52,479 | 94% |
| #12 New Jersey Institute of Technology University Heights, Newark, New Jersey 07102 | $20,624 | 65% |
| #13 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218 | $55,350 | 93% |
| #14 Boston University One Silber Way, Boston, Massachusetts 02215 | $54,720 | 88% |
| #15 The University of West Florida 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32514 | $7,088 | 43% |
| #16 Purdue University Hovde Hall of Administration, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907 | $9,208 | 81% |
| #17 DePaul University 1 E Jackson Blvd, Chicago, Illinois 60604 | $19,584 | 72% |
| #18 Old Dominion University 5115 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, Virginia 23529 | $10,207 | 52% |
| #19 Auburn University Auburn, Alabama 36849 | $9,828 | 78% |
| #20 California State University, Fullerton 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, California 92831 | $7,176 | 68% |
| #21 Kennesaw State University 1000 Chastain Rd, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144 | $5,328 | 43% |
| #22 University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 2282, Moscow, Idaho 83844 | $7,754 | 59% |
| #23 Georgia Southern University 1332 Southern Drive, Statesboro, Georgia 30460 | $4,977 | 50% |
| #24 East Carolina University East 5th Street, Greenville, North Carolina 27858 | $4,749 | 65% |
| #25 University of West Georgia 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, Georgia 30118 | $4,338 | 42% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
Most Affordable Online Master’s in Computer Science Programs
Colleges and universities price their online master’s in computer science programs differently. Some schools focus on affordability while others charge a cost per credit rate to benefit students with transferable credit.
| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 University of West Georgia 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, Georgia 30118 | $4,338 | 42% |
| #2 East Carolina University East 5th Street, Greenville, North Carolina 27858 | $4,749 | 65% |
| #3 Georgia Southern University 1332 Southern Drive, Statesboro, Georgia 30460 | $4,977 | 50% |
| #4 Southern Arkansas University 100 E. University, Magnolia, Arkansas 71753 | $5,040 | 41% |
| #5 Southeast Missouri State University One University Plaza, MS2025, Cape Girardeau, Missouri 63701 | $5,242 | 49% |
| #6 Kennesaw State University 1000 Chastain Rd, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144 | $5,328 | 43% |
| #7 University of Louisiana, Lafayette 104 University Circle, Lafayette, Louisiana 70503 | $5,511 | 48% |
| #8 Dakota State University 820 N Washington Ave, Madison, South Dakota 57042 | $5,939 | 47% |
| #9 Columbus State University 4225 University Ave, Columbus, Georgia 31907 | $6,300 | 37% |
| #10 Arizona State University 1475 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, Arizona 85257 | $6,384 | 48% |
| #11 The University of West Florida 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32514 | $7,088 | 43% |
| #12 California State University, Fullerton 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, California 92831 | $7,176 | 68% |
| #13 University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 2282, Moscow, Idaho 83844 | $7,754 | 59% |
| #14 Frostburg State University 101 Braddock Road, Frostburg, Maryland 21532 | $7,866 | 52% |
| #15 University of Illinois, Springfield One University Plaza, Springfield, Illinois 62703 | $8,270 | 51% |
| #16 Mississippi State University Lee Boulevard, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762 | $8,800 | 58% |
| #17 North Carolina State University 2101 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695 | $9,095 | 81% |
| #18 Purdue University Hovde Hall of Administration, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907 | $9208 | 81% |
| #19 Auburn University Auburn, Alabama 36849 | $9,828 | 78% |
| #20 Old Dominion University 5115 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, Virginia 23529 | $10,207 | 52% |
| #21 Colorado State University 102 Administration Building, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 | $10,520 | 71% |
| #22 University of North Dakota 264 Centennial Drive, Stop 8193, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202 | $10,534 | 55% |
| #23 University of Alabama, Huntsville 301 Sparkman Dr, Huntsville, Alabama 35899 | $10,632 | 52% |
| #24 Capitol Technology University 11301 Springfield Rd, Laurel, Maryland 20708 | $11,124 | 48% |
| #25 Campbellsville University 1 University Dr, Campbellsville, Kentucky 42718 | $12,240 | 40% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
Understanding an Online Master’s in Computer Science Program
A master’s in computer science builds off students’ existing computer science knowledge and introduces high-level topics. Current computer science professionals looking to advance their careers benefit the most from a master’s degree.
Specializations for an Online Master’s in Computer Science
Some schools offer concentrations or specializations for computer science master’s degrees, such as artificial intelligence, data science, and web development. Choosing a concentration can also create more career opportunities after graduation.
| Area of Focus | Description | Careers This Concentration Prepares For |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence | Artificial intelligence (AI) explores how computers learn, make decisions, reason with data, and communicate with humans. Combined with computer science, an AI concentration includes algorithmic design, complex coding, and natural language processing. | Software Engineers Machine Learning Engineers User Experience Data anAlytics Natural Language Processing |
| Computer Engineering | While computer science focuses on software, computer engineering focuses on integrating software with hardware. This concentration teaches both software engineering and works with electrical systems. | Hardware Engineers Software Developers Software Consultants Programmer Analysts Web Developers |
| Computer Forensics | Computer forensics applies computer science to law enforcement and security. Coursework covers topics such as cyber investigation, cybersecurity, and data analytics. | Computer Systems Analysts Information Security Analysts Computer And Information Research Scientists |
| Cyber Security | Similar to computer forensics, cybersecurity deals with protecting digital information. Students learn to manage and mitigate digital risk, enable cloud security, and follow cyber policy and law. | Cybersecurity analyst, information technology auditor, cybersecurity consultant, information security analyst, security architect |
| Database Management | A specialization in database management teaches students to change, implement, and test databases. Students learn to manage database systems, restructure existing systems, and orchestrate database security measures. | Computer systems analyst, computer network architect, computer and information systems manager, software developer, business intelligence consultant |
| Data Science | Data science builds off computer science foundations and implements statistics and statistical analysis. Data science specializations focus on large data sets and computing power. | Computer systems analyst, software developer, computer network architect, computer programmer, data scientist |
| Information Security | Similar to cybersecurity, information security deals only with the protection of digital information. This specialization teaches a narrower range of skills than cybersecurity. | IT security engineer, information security analyst, forensic computer analyst, security architect, chief information security analyst |
| Information Systems & Technology | Sometimes referred to as computer information systems (CIS), this specialization focuses on applying technology to business. Programs often require several business courses with this concentration. | IT manager, database manager, business application developer, management consultant, chief information officer |
| Robotics | While most robotics degrees focus on hardware, a computer science concentration in robotics emphasizes software. Topics covered include AI, graphics programming, and visual processing. | Robotics technician, robotics engineer, software developer, systems engineer, computer vision engineer |
| Software Engineering | A concentration in software engineering focuses on the design and structure of software systems. Students learn skills like software architecture, maintenance, and product measurement. | Software engineer, network architect, product manager, systems analyst, data scientist |
| Systems Engineering | A systems engineering concentration builds off computer science sequential programming and introduces high-level and low-level programming, plus the skills necessary to use both styles of programming. | Systems engineer, software developer, application software developer, hardware engineer, computer systems analyst |
| Web Development | While a computer science degree focuses on mathematics, a concentration in web development focuses on the application of computer science to build websites and applications. | Front or back end developer, information systems manager, full-stack developer, software developer, computer programmer |
Online Master’s in Computer Science Admission Requirements
Before applying for an online master’s in computer science, individuals should note that colleges and universities set stringent admissions standards. Here are some common admission requirements.
- Bachelor’s Degree: No matter where you apply, colleges and universities require that master’s degree applicants hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. Master’s in computer science programs prefer applicants with an educational background in computer science.
- Letters of Recommendation: Most online master’s in computer science programs require applicants to submit several letters of recommendation from coworkers, bosses, or previous college professors.
- GMAT/GRE Scores: For a master’s in computer science, applicants should take the GRE and submit test scores. Programs with an emphasis on business might also require GMAT scores.
- Work Experience: Many online computer science programs only accept applicants with at least 2-3 years of professional experience. These programs also anticipate that students continue to work while studying.
- TOEFL: All foreign-born, non-native English speakers must take the TOEFL exam. To be safe, test takers should score 100 or higher on the internet-based TOEFL exam.
Online Master’s in Computer Science Without a Computer Science Background
While online master’s in computer science programs prefer candidates with backgrounds in computer science, those with an unrelated bachelor’s degree should still apply. Online computer science programs usually attract skilled workers looking to advance their careers. So, someone with a professional background in computer science or a computer science certificate could gain admission into a master’s program.
Keep in mind that the best way to gain admission into an online master’s in computer science is to have both an undergraduate degree and a professional background in computer science. However, dedicated applicants can gain admission without a computer science background.
Here are some universities that accept students that don’t have an computer science background:
Skills Gained in an Online Master’s in Computer Science Program
An online master’s in computer science teaches some skills that build off existing knowledge and introduces some entirely new skills necessary for advanced careers. Students learn or refine skills through coursework, internships, and projects if required.
- Programming: Continuing off existing programming skills, an MS in computer science teaches Java, JavaScript, and C. Some elective courses or concentrations introduce additional languages and programs.
- Data Analysis: The master’s degree takes data analysis to a new level, introducing topics like AI, predictive analysis, and other advanced computer science analysis methods. These skills are critical for many computer science positions.
- Communication: A master’s in computer science leads to high-level roles that often see graduates managing teams. Students must learn to communicate with employees and other managers to implement larger strategies.
- Ethics: Those with a master’s degree take on more demanding professional roles, and this means assuming more responsibility for company-wide strategies. Graduates must understand the ethical ramifications of their decision making.
- Leadership: An online master’s in computer science helps current computer science professionals advance their careers. To be effective in their new roles, students learn leadership skills in graduate programs.
Accreditation for Online Master’s in Computer Science Degrees
When reviewing online master’s in computer science programs, future students should only apply to accredited programs. An accredited school/program is a school/program that meets the standards set by an accrediting body, and accrediting bodies are backed by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
First, ensure that any online school you apply to receive accreditation. Schools receive either regional or national accreditation, and regionally accredited schools are held to higher standards. While national accreditation is better than no accreditation, some employers and doctoral programs only recognize regionally accredited schools. CHEA recognizes six regionally accrediting bodies, and a school’s regional accreditation depends on its home state.
Second, look for online master’s in computer science programs that received ABET accreditation. ABET only accredits natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology programs. The best online computer science MS programs receive both regional and programmatic accreditation.
Check out our Accreditation Guide to learn more about accreditation.
Scholarships for Online Master’s in Computer Science Students
Graduate students often use scholarships to help cover the costs of a master’s degree. There are plenty of scholarships available to graduate students, some of which are only available to those pursuing a master’s in computer science.
- Upsilon Pi Epsilon Scholarship Award Who Can Apply: Available to undergraduates and graduates, the UPE Scholarship goes to four full-time students who are Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) members and ACM student chapter members.Amount: $1,000
- Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship Who Can Apply: The Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship goes to full-time students currently enrolled in their second semester of a graduate program. Applicants must be women or minorities.Amount: $3,000
- STEM Teacher Graduate Scholarships Who Can Apply: Only current graduate students pursuing a science, technology, engineering, or math degree with the intention of becoming a K-12 teacher may apply for this one-time scholarship. Amount: $2,500
- CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service Who Can Apply: Students pursuing a degree related to cybersecurity may have their entire tuition costs covered for up to three years. In return, graduates commit an equal number of years of service to the U.S. Government in a position related to cybersecurity. Amount: Full Tuition Cost
- WTM Scholarship for Computer Science & Gaming Who Can Apply: Available to graduate students studying computer science, computer engineering, video game programming, or a similar field, this scholarship goes toward women who plan on finding a career in the gaming industry.Amount: $10,000
Career and Salary Outlook for Online Master of Computer Science Graduates
As a broad field with many concentration options, online master of computer science graduates find various careers. Most graduates have some previous professional experience, and the master’s degree allows them to secure a management-level or leadership role. Other graduates use the master’s degree to advance their current careers. The potential outcomes for a master’s in computer science are nearly endless. Before enrolling in a master’s program, students should note that no amount of education guarantees a career or salary. That being said, this section explores potential careers, reported salary data, job growth projections, and how a master’s degree in computer science prepares students for these positions.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (2018-2028) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Security Analyst | $99,730 | 32% | Also known as cybersecurity analysts, information security analysts plan and implement digital security measures to protect networks and systems. Duties include researching new IT security developments and implementing software. |
| Software Developer | $105,590 | 21% | Software developers design new applications and systems for computer programs. Software developers must be creative, analytical, and collaborative with other computer programmers. |
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | $122,840 | 16% | A computer and information research scientist looks at issues surrounding computing and develops new theories to solve problems. Tasks include creating experiments, analyzing the data, and publishing findings. |
| Computer Network Architects | $112,690 | 5% | Also known as network engineers, computer network architects build communication networks for small businesses and large corporations. Duties include creating layouts for networks, upgrading infrastructure, and researching new technologies. |
| Top Executive | $104,690 | 6% | Top executives serve as leaders of a business. A computer science graduate could find a position as a Chief Technology Officer, overseeing the company’s entire digital department. |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Certifications and Licensing for Computer Science Professionals
While some certifications provide graduates with a stronger resume, other certifications and licenses are required for certain positions. Students should remain up-to-date on all required certifications or licenses for computer science careers.
Why is it important to be a certified computer science professional?
Aside from boosting a resume, some employers may prefer to only hire certified computer science professionals. In some instances, a career may legally require the employee to hold a specific certification or license.
How can I stay up-to-date on my computer science certifications?
As businesses roll out new programs, new certifications follow. Large companies like Cisco and Microsoft regularly update or add certifications for specific programs.
How do I receive licensure and certification?
Most certifications require a combination of education and experience. After qualifying for a certification or license, applicants must then pass an exam. Some certifications and licenses require renewal, and that process might include earning continuing education credits.
What are some example certifications and licenses I should consider?
Computer science graduates should earn certifications related to their field of expertise. Examples of certifications that graduates should earn include the following:
- Certified Information Security Manager: Offered by the ISACA, this certification proves a professional’s expertise in information security and risk management. Anyone considering a career information security or cybersecurity should consider this certification.
- Cisco Certified Design Professional: The CCDP certification proves the expertise of seasoned computer science professionals. However, this well-respected certification requires applicants to hold several other Cisco certifications first.
- Professional Software Engineering Master Certification: Offered by the IEEE Computer Society, this certification requires applicants to complete a degree in computer science and earn two years of industry experience. The certifications prove the software development skills of the professional.
Resources for Online Master’s in Computer Science Students
Designed for current students, recent graduates, and seasoned professionals, a professional resource offers many benefits to its members, including networking opportunities, industry discounts, online education, job board access, and exclusive publications.
- Association for Computing Machinery: Created to inspire collaboration between its 100,000 members, ACM offers its members learning opportunities, career development, and professional networking. ACM also offers 37 special interest groups for niche computer science fields.
- Association for Women in Computing: The AWC is among the first professional organizations created specifically for women in computing. Members gain access to mentoring, continuing education, and professional networking.
- IEEE Computer Society: Founded in 1946, the IEEE Computer Society is now one of the largest organizations for computer science professionals. IEEE offers three membership levels for current students, recent graduates, and industry leaders.
- Computer Science Teachers Association: As the main organization dedicated to supporting K-12 computer science teachers, CSTA works to provide teachers with useful professional resources. CSTA’s basic membership comes at no cost.
- CompTIA: Aside from access to scholarship opportunities, professional networking, and career development, CompTIA offers its student members discounts on some of the top certifications in the industry.