Master’s in Computer Science Program Guide

As technology changes, tech professionals must change with it. Master’s degrees equip learners with the tools they need to keep pace.

Computing’s continued push into the social and economic mainstream has sparked the growth of a large, technically skilled labor force. As competition within that labor force becomes heavier, job-seekers must find new ways to stand out. To that end, a master’s in computer science holds appeal.

Graduate programs offer the chance to develop targeted skills and advanced specializations. They also help build a more agile knowledge base, adapting to the fast-changing needs of the global technology industry.

Read on to explore the many ways in which advanced computer science degrees could boost your career value.

At the bachelor’s level, computer science students focus on essential skills and concepts leading to entry-level careers. Meanwhile, a master’s in computer science focuses on advanced proficiencies that support technical specialization, advancement into doctoral programs, and career growth and development.

Some undergraduate computer science programs offer specializations in areas like information technology and cybersecurity. However, such concentrations are more readily available at the master’s level since graduate schools expect students to possess foundational knowledge. This facilitates learners’ ready progression into specialized areas such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and robotics.

A bachelor’s degree in computer science is helpful but not strictly necessary to enter a master’s-level program. There are even online programs specific to non-computer science majors.

If you don’t come from a computer science background, you will likely need to provide a demonstration of your relevant knowledge as part of the admission process.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Employers often prefer or require candidates with master’s degrees when filling top-paying vacancies, especially in specialized areas. If career growth is a high priority for you, a master’s in computer science may hold value.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes numerous well-paid technology careers for which a master’s degree is a preferred or required qualification. Examples include computer and information research scientists, network architects, senior software developers, and database architects and administrators.

As of April 2024, Payscale lists $93,000 per year as the average base salary of a professional with a bachelor’s in computer science. Meanwhile, those with a master’s in computer science earned average base salaries of $112,000 per year. That’s a difference of nearly 20%.

As another tool for assessing your options, consider the major pros and cons of pursuing a computer science master’s:

Computer science master’s programs often aim to develop a balance of theory-based and applied skills. They can target specific proficiencies, or allow the student to curate their own specializations through the strategic use of elective courses.

Some programs focus on developing research proficiencies as learners prepare for possible future doctoral studies.

In exploring the following concentrations, consider how each may match your learning objectives and career goals.

Computer science master’s students can enroll in generalist programs, but many opt for specialized degrees. Consider these five popular concentration options:

Master’s in computer science curricula vary among schools and programs, sometimes significantly. Exact course offerings strongly depend on your chosen specialization or concentration.

The following list profiles courses commonly offered in general computer science master’s programs:

A bachelor’s in computer science is the ideal academic background for aspiring computer science master’s students. However, many graduate programs do not specifically require one if you can show your work.

These typically include advanced coursework in calculus, discrete mathematics, and linear algebra; demonstrated knowledge of computer programming and architecture; and paid professional experience in a technical area of computing.

Learners with bachelor’s degrees in areas other than computer science may need to complete prerequisite courses prior to program entry. Academic performance requirements vary, but an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is a general benchmark.

A master’s in computer science typically covers about 30-36 credits. Full-time learners can usually complete program requirements in the equivalent of two academic years. With part-time enrollment, learners can graduate in 3-5 years, depending on their course loads. Online and in-person programs usually have comparable structures and schedules.

If you do not have a bachelor’s in computer science, you might need to complete prerequisites. This may add a semester or more to your expected graduation timeline.

Experienced learners can expedite graduation by enrolling in accelerated programs. These condensed programs move through material more quickly. Some online degrees build acceleration options into their program structures, making them an option for knowledgeable students.

Advanced degrees mainly appeal to learners seeking to build authoritative expertise in a specific computer science field. Thus, a master’s in computer science prepares learners for specialized professional roles and career paths with advancement potential.

As computing becomes increasingly specialized, employers seek candidates whose knowledge and backgrounds extend beyond general areas. A master’s in computer science can therefore lead more directly into career paths that interest you, especially if you mastered with a concentration area

A computer science master’s is also an essential step for learners interested in research or postsecondary teaching. Graduate degrees often act as prerequisites for entry to doctoral programs in information technology or artificial intelligence.

The following table profiles popular careers that may be available to candidates with generalist or specialized master’s degrees in computer science:

A master’s in computer science may lead to well-paid careers that exceed labor market averages. For example, consider the role of computer and information research scientists: The BLS lists this career — which brings in a median of $145,080 annually — as requiring a master’s degree.

Beyond that $145,080 annual total, the top 10% of computer and information research scientists made more than $233,110, while the lowest 10% made approximately $81,450. Notably, even the lowest 10% of earners easily exceeded the national average for all occupations, which the BLS cited as $65,470 per year.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed January 2, 2024.