The modern computer science field began in the 20th century, when governments and universities sought ways to solve complex mathematical problems quickly.
Today, developments like artificial intelligence, data science, and the internet of things are driving rapid changes in the field. Consequently, almost 100,000 U.S. students were enrolled in graduate-level computer science programs as of 2020.
A master's in computer science can help technology professionals stay on the industry's cutting edge. These programs are designed to give students in-depth knowledge of computer science principles while developing their problem-solving and analytical skills.
Use our guide to discover some of the best master's degrees in computer science available in 2023.
Best Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
Check out the top five master's in computer science in 2023 and how these schools and programs go above and beyond the competition. More information on the ranking methodology can be found in the link below.
#1 Best Master’s Degrees in Computer Science
University of California-Los Angeles
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1919, UCLA has more than 47,000 students across its 12 professional schools. The school has more than 80 programs at the master's level alone.
Master of Science in Computer Science
Run by the engineering and applied science school, University of California-Los Angeles' master's in computer science features a thesis and a capstone track. In both paths, students complete nine courses from fields like artificial intelligence, data science, and system architecture. Thesis students must also complete two thesis courses, whereas capstone students complete an individual project with an advisor.
UCLA plays a prominent role in the nation's computer science advancements, with 31 relevant research centers and labs. Graduate students benefit from such close proximity to industry-leading projects and innovations, along with the school's strategic industry partnerships and over 40 computer-related student clubs and organizations.
Applying to UCLA
Applications to UCLA cost $135 and require a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Candidates also need to submit a statement of purpose, a personal statement, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Tuition: $3,900/quarter
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 5-7 quarters
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Best Master’s Degrees in Computer Science
University of California-Berkeley
- Berkeley, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Berkeley was founded in 1868 and has more than 45,000 students in over 350 programs. The school made a mission to have a more lasting impact on California's future generations than gold.
Master of Science in Computer Science
Berkeley's program for a master's in computer science features a thesis and project report path. The thesis track has 4-10 individual research credit requirements, whereas the project report track has 3-6. Students in either path can choose from several specializations, including security, human-computer interaction, and database management systems.
Berkeley's computer science cohorts are often limited to 10 students, giving learners a more personal and engaged learning experience. The electrical engineering and computer science department has more than 70 research centers and labs. Students also have access to more than 20 student groups related to computer science.
Applying to Berkeley
For admission to Berkeley, applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. They also need to pay the $135 application fee and submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a statement of purpose.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Tuition: $5,850/year
- Required Credits: 24
- Program Length: Two years
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Best Master’s Degrees in Computer Science
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
In 1795, UNC-Chapel Hill became the first public school in the country to confer degrees. The school now has more than 30,000 students and over 260 programs, including more than 100 at the master's level.
Master of Science in Computer Science
UNC-Chapel Hill's master's in computer science allows students to build their own program around their research interests. Possible research areas include computer vision, machine learning, natural language processing, and real-time systems. All students must also satisfy breadth course requirements in applications, system and hardware, and theory and formal thinking.
The program has a thesis and nonthesis option, along with a written or oral comprehensive examination. Learners also need to design and develop a piece of product-quality software and a professional technical document. UNC-Chapel Hill's extensive computer science facilities include general computing, software, and network environments, plus an extensive computation infrastructure.
Applying to UNC-Chapel Hill
UNC-Chapel Hill applicants need a bachelor's with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Their $95 application needs to include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume. Applicants also need to identify up to five research areas they want to pursue and five faculty members they want to work with.
GRE scores are recommended.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $5,276/semester (in state); $14,139/semester (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: Four semesters or less
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master’s Degrees in Computer Science
University of California-Irvine
- Irvine, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1965, UCI enrolls more than 37,000 students in over 220 programs. The university has 18 academic schools, including the information and computer sciences school, which began in 1968.
Master of Science in Computer Science
University of California-Irvine's master's in computer science has a professional track with a comprehensive examination and research-oriented track with a thesis. Students build their program by choosing four of seven core courses, with options in data structures, architecture, system software, AI, and networks, plus database systems and visual computing.
Students also choose from 12 research areas, including multimedia and gaming, security, and programming languages and compilers. After completing their final projects or papers, learners present their work to the school's professional network partners. With more than 20 computer science research centers, UCI also provides its graduate students with numerous research and extracurricular opportunities.
Applying to UCI
UCI applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. The application costs $135 and must include GRE test scores, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Tuition: $10,458/quarter
- Required Credits: 47
- Program Length: 15 months
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Master’s Degrees in Computer Science
University of California-Davis
- Davis, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
UC Davis began as a research and science extension of UC Berkeley in 1908. After becoming an official campus in 1959, the school has grown to host more than 38,000 students, six professional schools, over 100 majors, and more than 100 graduate programs.
Master of Science in Computer Science
The master's in computer science from UC Davis offers two tracks: a thesis-based path and a project- or exam-based path. Students complete core courses in three of four areas, including architecture, theory, applications, and systems. The school provides learners with direct support from a thesis or project advisor, graduate advisor, and graduate program coordinator.
UC Davis students can also access research opportunities and mentorship from UC Davis' computer science graduate group consisting of over 75 faculty members. Learners can benefit from program partnerships with the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, along with research partnerships with several industry-leading organizations.
Applying to UC Davis
UC Davis graduate applications cost $125 and require candidates to have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA. Applicants must identify their area of interest and submit transcripts, a resume, and three letters of recommendation. They also need to submit a statement of purpose and a personal history and diversity statement.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Tuition: $3,900/quarter
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 2-3 years
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Why Get a Computer Science Master's Degree?
The computer and information technology field continues to grow at a faster-than-average pace: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 15% growth in computer and technology occupations between 2021 and 2031 — an increase of over 680,000 jobs across the country.
As organizational technology needs grow more complex, the advanced skills gap also widens. This correlates to increased demand for computer science professionals with these skills, including workers with advanced credentials like master's degrees. Computer science master's programs combine upper-level knowledge and skills with specialized training, qualifying graduates for advanced roles in the field.
Benefits of earning a computer science master's degree include:
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Valuable Skills: Computer science master's programs develop in-demand technical skills. Because of their training, computer science professionals with advanced credentials can qualify for job opportunities that pay higher-than-average salaries.
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Growing Field: As more organizations digitize their operations, nearly every industry benefits from computer science professionals' skills. The BLS projects faster-than-average growth for computer and IT occupations from 2021 to 2031.
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Higher-Than-Average Salaries: Graduates of computer science master's programs often earn wages that exceed the national average salary for all occupations. For example, the BLS reports computer and information research scientists — a role typically requiring graduate-level education — made a median annual salary of $131,490 in 2021.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What To Expect From Master's in Computer Science Programs
Master's degrees in computer science explore topics like engineering, business, and science. Students develop skills in software design and development, computer architecture, and programming.
The typical master's degree in computer science takes two years of full-time study, requiring 30-45 credits. Per the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual tuition and fees for graduate degrees were $19,749 in 2020-21.
Programs often culminate in a thesis or capstone project. Research-based thesis programs best suit learners who want to pursue a doctorate. Course-based or practical project-based programs may most benefit students aiming for the workforce.
Master's in Computer Science Admission Requirements
Admissions criteria for master's in computer science programs vary by school. However, common requirements include:
- A bachelor's in computer science from an accredited university, or a bachelor's in another field with prerequisite foundational courses
- A minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- GRE scores
Applicants usually submit materials like college transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. Programs may require an admissions interview.
Master's Degree and Specialization Options
Most institutions offer master of science (MS) in computer science degrees. Some schools offer other degree types in this field, such as a master of business administration (MBA) focusing on information technology.
Earning a general MS in computer science provides a foundation in computer science theory and practice, preparing learners for a variety of technology careers. An IT-related MBA focuses on business skills specific to the tech industry. Graduates with an MBA geared toward computer science can use their unique skill set in business or IT positions.
Many programs offer concentrations like artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and software engineering masters degree programs. Schools may also offer full degrees in these subdisciplines. Earning a master's in these niche areas helps graduates prepare for specialized career paths.
Popular Master's in Computer Science Courses
A master's in computer science degree deepens learners' knowledge of computer science fundamentals and equips students with valuable problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Most programs offer an array of courses in subjects like programming, robotics, and data science. These options allow students to tailor their degree to their goals.
Common computer science graduate-level classes include:
- Machine Learning: This course introduces students to the impacts of intelligent technologies in science and engineering. Learners explore essential algorithms and theoretical foundations of machine learning. Other topics may include multitask learning, statistical learning theory, least squares regression, and bias variance trade-offs.
- Artificial Intelligence: Students learn the core concepts of designing objective-driven autonomous agents. This course focuses on the technological and ethical issues surrounding agent development. Other topics may include neural networks, classical planning, Markov decision processes, and perception-based recognition.
- Advanced Computer Architecture: This class focuses on the organization and architecture of computers, quantitative analysis of design alternatives, and principles of instruction sets. Other topics include memory, interconnection, storage, and architectural innovations.
- Database Systems: Enrollees in this course learn how database systems function. They explore relational algebra, query processing, query optimization, and data models. The class also emphasizes database design, SQL programming, isolation and consistency, and object-relational mappings.
- Applied Cryptography: In this course, learners explore how cryptography functions as a security method in computer applications. Topics include common ciphers, password cracking, advanced cryptography protocols, and election algorithms. Students usually need prior knowledge of discrete mathematics, algebra, computer architecture, and data structures before enrolling.
What Will a Master's in Computer Science Degree Cost?
The cost of a master's in computer science varies by school. Factors that influence how much you pay include program format (online or in-person), type of school (private or public), and tuition rate (in-state or out-of-state).
Public universities typically offer the most affordable master's degrees, particularly if you qualify for in-state tuition. In addition to tuition and fees, prospective students should consider expenses like housing, transportation, and groceries as they calculate their budget.
Computer science master's programs offer a variety of financing options to help learners pay for their degree, including loans, scholarships, grants, and fellowships. Schools may offer graduate research or teaching assistantships, which give students free or reduced tuition in exchange for part-time employment at the institution. Some graduate assistants also receive stipends to help pay for living expenses.
Jobs for Master's in Computer Science Graduates
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Computer and information research scientists seek answers to their discipline's most complex queries. They create models, determine new system requirements, and even develop new computer languages. Computer research scientists can specialize in areas like robotics or programming. Many work for the U.S. government or computer design companies.
- Required Education: Master's degree
- 2021 Median Annual Salary: $131,490
- Job Outlook (2021-31): +21%
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Among the highest-paying computer and information science careers, these systems managers plan and direct organizations' computer-related activities. They serve as IT managers or directors, chief technology officers, and chief information security officers. Their duties typically combine management with technology knowledge.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree required; master's degree preferred
- 2021 Median Annual Salary: $159,010
- Job Outlook (2021-31): +16%
Computer Hardware Engineers
Computer hardware engineers design and test new computer hardware. They create components like processors, routers, and circuit boards. Hardware engineers also test and modify their designs. These professionals often work in computer systems design firms, research and development labs, or manufacturing organizations.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree required; master's degree preferred
- 2021 Median Annual Salary: $128,170
- Job Outlook (2021-31): +5%
Computer Network Architects
Computer network architects create data communication networks, including intranets, wide area networks, and local area networks. Their duties may include analyzing data traffic, researching networking technologies, and upgrading hardware. They must understand their organizations' business plans to help achieve those goals using technology. Large employers may prefer a computer science master's degree for this role.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree required; master's degree preferred
- 2021 Median Annual Salary: $120,520
- Job Outlook (2021-31): +4%
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts provide protection for their organizations' networks and computer systems. They assess vulnerabilities, monitor breaches, research security trends, and recommend system enhancements. They may also help reconstruct security features after an attack. Along with a computer science master's, many of these professionals need industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree required; master's degree preferred
2021 Median Annual Salary: $102,600
Job Outlook (2021-31): +35%
Choosing a Computer Science Graduate Degree Program
In addition to our rankings of the best computer science master's programs, consider the following criteria when determining where to apply:
- Accreditation: Holding institutional accreditation verifies that a school meets standards of academic excellence and rigor. Master's in computer science programs may also hold programmatic accreditation from organizations like ABET, which verify whether a degree's curriculum helps prepare students for careers in the field.
- Staff Credentials: Research potential programs' faculty to see if anyone conducts research about or specializes in areas related to your interests. These faculty may offer insights into career prospects or help connect you to professional networks.
- Program Culture: Determine which kind of program fits with your learning and social styles. Some schools offer close-knit cohorts and robust graduate student groups, while others offer a more professional environment.
- Competitiveness: Research how competitive a school's admissions are. Many master's in computer science programs may offer information about acceptance rates to prospective applicants.
- Available Specializations: Consider your career interests, then look for programs with specializations geared toward those goals. You can specialize in high-growth areas of the field to access niche roles with higher-than-average salaries.
Should You Get Your Degree Online?
Evolving market forces and the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted how students learn. Some learners seek cost-effective, in-demand degrees they can earn without relocating.
Because of the integration of technology into coursework, computer science master's degrees may be particularly well-suited to the online experience. Prospective students considering online master's degrees should determine whether distance learning modalities align with their preferences. Since these programs often lack a traditional classroom structure, online enrollees need motivation, discipline, and time management skills.
Explore other computer science education options:
Affordable Online Master's in Computer Science
Doctoral Degree Programs in Computer Science
Top Computer Science Certificate Programs
Certifications for Computer Science Professionals
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Questions About Master's in Computer Science Degrees
Which master's degree is best for a computer science career?
A master's degree in computer science offers the most straightforward path to advanced computer science careers. Degrees in data science, software development, and information technology can also prepare graduates for roles in this field.
Is getting a master's in computer science better than just a bachelor's?
In addition to an in-depth understanding of core computing concepts, master's degrees in computer science provide students with specialized knowledge in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and machine learning. Enrollees in these programs can also learn research methods and other tools to solve complex problems. These skills may help graduates qualify for advanced roles or doctoral programs.
What can you do with a master's in computer science degree?
A master's degree in computer science can qualify you for an array of computer and information technology jobs. Possible career fields include computer and information research science, information security analysis, and computer and information systems management.
Can you get a master's degree in computer science without a bachelor's degree?
Typically, master's programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree. However, this undergraduate credential does not need to be computer science-related as long as you satisfy prerequisite coursework requirements.
Is a master's degree in computer science worth it?
Deciding whether a master's in computer science is worth the investment of time, money, and work depends on your career goals. Often, graduates of these programs can qualify for advanced positions that offer higher-than-average salaries, offering a positive return on investment.
Last reviewed June 5, 2023.
The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by ComputerScience.org.
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