[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s in computer science (CS) equips students with the skills and knowledge to pursue work as researchers and leaders in high-tech career fields. U.S. universities issued 51,338 of these degrees in 2021-2022, according to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d23/tables/dt23_325.35.asp” target=”_blank”]National Center for Education Statistics[/hen-ui-link] (NCES), making it a popular program choice.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Building on a bachelor’s degree in CS or a related area, the master’s degree dives deep into computer design and analysis, introducing students to next-generation systems. Coursework also helps students see how CS interfaces with other academic areas, including psychology, biology, urban planning, and public health.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Given its technological nature, CS is an ideal master’s degree for online learners. Besides flexibility and access, students can enjoy diverse opportunities for networking and skills enhancement. Explore the rankings and resources for online master’s in computer science degrees using our guide below.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Should You Get an Online Master’s in Computer Science Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you’re looking to concentrate on a specific area of [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]computer science[/hen-ui-link], advance your career prospects, or enter research-oriented roles, a master’s degree can provide you with deeper knowledge and a competitive edge. These programs can also open doors to higher-paying positions and leadership roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-computer-science/”]Online degrees[/hen-ui-link], in particular, allow you to balance your studies with other responsibilities. They often attract students from diverse geographic locations, fostering a global network of peers. Make sure to thoroughly research the reputation of the online program, the quality of instruction, and the level of interaction with instructors and peers before applying.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Be sure to weigh considerations like accessibility, flexibility, and resources against potential drawbacks like social isolation and self-study requirements when choosing between online and on-campus programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”heading-2 text-tertiary”]Pros of a Master’s in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Opens the door to job opportunities such as computer information research scientist, software engineer, or information security analyst[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Allows access to high earning potential; median annual wage in the field stood at [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm” target=”_blank”]$105,990 as of May 2024[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Advances your knowledge of in-demand fields like big data, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”heading-2 text-secondary”]Cons of a Master’s in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Costs more than alternative paths such as bootcamps and certifications[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Requires a commitment of 1-2 years for full-time students[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]May offer diminishing returns if you already work in a CS career[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-article-card title=”Explore what you can do with a degree in computer science” href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Top Online Master’s in Computer Science Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-card title=”Read About Our Methodology Here” href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Expect From an Online Master’s in Computer Science?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Expect to immerse yourself in the discipline of computer science, equipping you with advanced skills and fostering a deep understanding of fundamental CS principles. A master’s degree also encourages innovation and exploration in emerging areas of technology.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can often specialize in areas like machine learning, software engineering, cybersecurity, and database systems. Core courses typically cover algorithms, operating systems, computer architecture, and theories of computation. Elective courses may include machine learning, [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/artificial-intelligence/”]artificial intelligence[/hen-ui-link], computer graphics, and software development methodologies.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Taking 9-12 credits per semester, students can usually finish their degrees in 3-4 semesters or 1-2 years. Program costs vary by school and program, but you should budget for around $30,000 or more for tuition costs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What Are the Admission Requirements?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most master’s in CS programs require you to hold a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-science/”]bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-link]. Many schools stipulate that the degree must be in computer science, but you can still find openings for [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-computer-science/non-cs-majors/”]non-CS majors[/hen-ui-link]. While each school sets its own minimum GPA for admission, you should aim for a 3.0 or higher.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Applicants with lower GPAs may receive consideration if their GRE scores are high enough. Not all schools require standardized tests or set score minimums, but many universities expect to see a resume, references, and proof of a background in computer science.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Which Courses Will You Have to Take?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Each school designs its own curriculum for master’s degree in [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]computer science programs[/hen-ui-link]. The courses below cover core and elective courses in current CS degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Applied Cryptography[/hen-ui-text]: Students explore algorithms, protocols, and their real-world applications in areas like secure communication, data protection, and authentication. Coursework emphasizes cryptographic concepts and implementing secure solutions.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Mobile Computing[/hen-ui-text]: The course covers mobile app design, development, and optimization for various operating systems and devices. Students learn about mobile platforms, user interfaces, sensors, and data synchronization.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Video Game Design[/hen-ui-text]: Enrollees explore the integration of art, programming, and narrative elements to create engaging games. Topics include game mechanics, character design, level design, and user experience principles.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Quantum Computing[/hen-ui-text]: Covering quantum gates, algorithms, and qubit operations, this course focuses on the potential advantages and limitations of quantum computing and its implications for solving complex problems.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Foundations of Algorithms[/hen-ui-text]: Students take a close look at the theoretical underpinnings of algorithm design and analysis. Topics include algorithmic complexity, data structures, and graph algorithms.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]How Much Does an Online Master’s Degree Cost?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d22/tables/dt22_330.50.asp” target=”_blank”]NCES reports[/hen-ui-link] that, in 2021-2022, a master’s degree cost an average of $20,513 per year in tuition and fees. Public institutions generally charged less than private schools, and in-state students attending public schools paid the lowest rates, on average. Other factors affecting tuition include school prestige, location, and delivery format.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]During your studies, you may incur costs related to items other than tuition, like required tech or subscriptions to journals, for example. Make sure to budget for these costs in advance.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While you cannot get a Pell Grant for graduate school, you can access other [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/online-college-financial-aid/”]forms of financial aid[/hen-ui-link]. Many companies offer tuition-reimbursement packages for high-performing employees who are pursuing degrees. In addition, you may qualify for scholarships, grants, assistantships, or student loans.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Do You Choose an Online Master’s in Computer Science Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As you choose a master’s in computer science, you need to consider several relevant factors.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Online-Specific Education: [/hen-ui-text]Consider whether the program easily transfers to an online environment,[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Admissions Requirements: [/hen-ui-text]If you need to take the GRE, GMAT, or other admissions test, do you have time to take the exam before the application deadline?[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Program Length: [/hen-ui-text]Some programs allow you to accelerate your time to graduation. Other schools offer less intense, lengthier programs that allow you to devote more time and energy to work or family life.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Available Concentrations: [/hen-ui-text]Research if the program offers the concentration you want. If not, look into whether you can easily pursue the certification elsewhere.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Career Services: [/hen-ui-text]Find out what resources the school provides after graduation, such as job placement or networking opportunities.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Final Project: [/hen-ui-text]Find out what capstone, if any, the school requires. If you plan to pursue a doctorate later, you may benefit from doing a thesis.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Accreditation: [/hen-ui-text]Most importantly, your school of choice should be [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.chea.org/” target=”_blank”]institutionally accredited[/hen-ui-link]. At the graduate level, you do not need to worry about programmatic accreditation since ABET only accredits undergraduate programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-article-card title=”Learn more about accreditation and why it’s important” href=”/resources/accreditation/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]More Questions About Earning an Online Master’s in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Is a master’s in computer science hard?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online master’s in computer science can be challenging but also highly rewarding. In the program, you’ll study complex theory and mathematics, perform in-depth research, and take courses in specialized topics. If you are prepared, dedicated, and disciplined, you can successfully navigate these challenges and excel in your studies.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Is an online master’s in CS degree credible?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When an online master’s in computer science comes from an accredited school, employers take it seriously. If your school holds institutional accreditation, your degree is credible.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What GPA do I need to get into a master’s in CS program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Each computer science master’s program sets specific admission requirements, but most schools call for a 3.0 or higher GPA. However, some schools may admit students with lower GPAs if they can otherwise demonstrate their qualifications for the program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What jobs can I get with a computer science graduate degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After completing an online master’s in computer science, you can pursue work as a software engineer, machine learning specialist, artificial intelligence engineer, cybersecurity analyst, or database administrator, among other popular roles. The field of computer science is constantly evolving, creating new opportunities all the time.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Do computer scientists earn more than computer engineers?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These two professions earn about the same wages. According to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm” target=”_blank”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link], computer and information research scientists earn a median annual salary of $140,910 as of May 2024. The [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/computer-hardware-engineers.htm” target=”_blank”]BLS reports[/hen-ui-link] computer hardware engineers earn $155,020 annually.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”em”]All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the [hen-ui-link href=”/contributors///tbs-rankings-team/”]TBS Rankings Team[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]