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. This mirrors the popularity of advanced study in computer science: More than 121,000 U.S. students were enrolled in graduate-level computer science programs in 2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
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 on-campus and online master's in computer science programs available in 2025.
Popular Online Master's in Computer Science Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Computer Science Master's Degree Programs
#1 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
Georgetown University
- Washington, DC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Georgetown's MS in computer science program offers multiple personalization options. Students can choose from a 30-credit coursework track or a 24-credit thesis track. The coursework track offers more skills-focused learning, while the thesis track requires original research.
We like how both tracks leave plenty of slots for open electives. Learners can fill these slots with any graduate-level computer science course to customize specialization pathways. Electives can also include courses offered through other Georgetown departments or schools in the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area.
Highlights:
- Prestigious, high-profile institution
- Fall or spring start dates
- Emphasizes coursework in systems and algorithms
Considerations:
- Designed specifically for full-time study
- No departmental financial aid offered
- Maximum completion time of three years
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
University of California-Berkeley
- Berkeley, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
UC Berkeley's MS in computer science program specifically focuses on research innovation. We like how the program emphasizes breadth to ensure that all graduates have adequate exposure to diverse computer science topics.
Students select courses from two themed topic groups. The first group covers theory, artificial intelligence, and graphics or human-computer interaction. The second includes programming, systems, and computer architecture or very large system integrations.
UC Berkeley's Northern California location is adjacent to Silicon Valley, which can offer a strong school-to-career pipeline. Initiatives like the Corporate Access Program connect UC Berkeley computer science students to major recruiters.
Highlights:
- UC Berkeley has an excellent STEM reputation
- Ideal preparation for research-oriented doctoral studies
- Technical background not firmly required
Considerations:
- Extremely competitive admissions
- Full-time only
- Ongoing minimum 3.00 GPA required while enrolled
Percent Online Enrollment
21%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Covering 30 credits, UNC-Chapel Hill's MS program in computer science explores three core areas: systems and hardware, applications, and theory and formal thinking. Formal thinking courses compel students to apply structured reasoning and logic to computer science in areas like deep learning, data mining, and algorithmic analysis.
We like how the program also builds practical skills development into its curriculum. All students are required to build a consumer-quality software program and write a comprehensive paper, research thesis, or other approved technical document. The writing requirement ensures graduates possess professional-level technical composition skills.
Highlights:
- Students match with faculty advisors who share their interests
- Extensive tuition support programs available
- Semester-based tuition caps apply
Considerations:
- Five-year time limit
- Comprehensive exit examination required (oral or written)
- Maximum of 6 transfer credits
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
- Seattle, WA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Offered through the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering, UW's professional master's in computer science specifically accommodates working professionals seeking degree upgrades in support of career advancement. The part-time, schedule-friendly curriculum covers 40 credits to explore established and emerging computer science concepts.
We like the program's flexibility. Face-to-face classes convene during the evening once per week, and students supplement with online learning activities. We also appreciate UW's effort to prioritize historically underrepresented student populations.
According to UW, students in the program have an average of 5.5 years of professional experience and average undergraduate GPAs of 3.50.
Highlights:
- Affordable tuition
- No prerequisites required
- Welcomes international students (30% of students are not U.S. citizens)
Considerations:
- Admission offered to only 25-30% of qualified applicants
- Requires 20 hours per week outside the classroom
- Maximum of six transfer credits allowed
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
Vanderbilt University
- Nashville, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Vanderbilt's MS program in computer science offers students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research. Learners in this 30-credit program study innovative trends with the potential to reshape the course of the technology industry.
We like the breadth of specialized subfields Vanderbilt emphasizes in its curriculum. These options include artificial intelligence, human-computer integration, robotics, and trustworthy computing.
Vanderbilt also facilitates interdisciplinary computer science training focused on specific industries, which learners can target for employment after graduating. Energy, entertainment, healthcare, and security rank among the directly supported pathways.
Highlights:
- Extensive fellowship and scholarship opportunities
- Online delivery available
- Thesis and non-thesis track options
Considerations:
- Funding not available to master's students
- Curricular Practical Training not available to F-1 visa students
- Computer science bachelor's degree strongly recommended
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
New York University
- New York, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
NYU's MS in computer science combines core coursework with personalization opportunities that let students build specializations through their electives and capstones. Popular customization pathways include high-growth fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science, but NYU also supports traditional computer science specializations such as graphics, game development, and search technology.
The 30-credit curriculum includes required coursework in algorithms, along with a flexible four-course core. We like the option of completing an advanced research project or thesis as a complement to the required capstone.
While a computer science bachelor's degree is not required to apply, applicants from other undergraduate backgrounds must complete an online sequence of preparatory coursework.
Highlights:
- NYU's Tandon School of Engineering has a 97% employment rate
- Urban campus with extensive connections to industry
- Accepts up to nine transfer credits
Considerations:
- Computer science, engineering, mathematics, or science degree required
- Knowledge of C++ or other general-purpose programming language required
- 3.00 minimum GPA required for core, capstone, and cumulative coursework
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
USF's MS in computer science program leverages the school's state-of-the-art facilities to offer a broad core curriculum with targeted computer science research opportunities. Students can pursue interests in artificial intelligence, data mining, distributed and embedded systems, robotics, and many other areas with strong employer and industry demand.
The 30-credit curriculum includes just nine semester hours of required courses, opening up extensive personalization opportunities. Learners complete 12-21 credits of elective coursework, and we like how USF supports learners' unique developmental goals by strongly encouraging collaboration with faculty advisors.
Comprehensive exit examination requirements apply.
Highlights:
- Thesis and non-thesis tracks offered
- Strong research orientation
- Accelerated bachelor's-to-master's pathway available
Considerations:
- GRE required (minimum 81st percentile in quantitative reasoning)
- Minimum "B" grade required in all core courses
- More elective slots available in non-thesis track
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Georgia Tech's MS in computer science program offers 11 specialization pathways, and students can pursue multiple options. We like the concentrations' practical relevance — pathways include human-computer interaction, interactive intelligence, machine learning, scientific computing, and other in-demand subfields.
Most applicants have bachelor's degrees in computer science, but Georgia Tech accepts learners from other backgrounds who complete remedial coursework. Notably, Georgia Tech also opens the computer science MS program to students in other graduate programs, which creates dual-degree opportunities.
Highlights:
- Coursework, research project, and master's thesis paths available
- Students can take any number of special topics courses
- Also available online
Considerations:
- Cumulative GPA of 3.00 required to graduate
- Minimum "C" grade required in all coursework
- Specialization pathways narrow in thesis option
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
California State University-Long Beach
- Long Beach, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
CSULB's MS in computer science uses a regularly updated curriculum to keep students on the cutting edge of digital technology. Coursework covers hardware and software to train learners for leadership-track careers or doctoral-level studies.
Students in the 30-credit program design personalized degree-completion paths with departmental advisors. We like how this makes it easier for degree-seekers to navigate the long list of available electives and create custom concentrations.
CSULB offers degree-completion pathways culminating with either a comprehensive exam or a master's thesis. Both options cover a breadth of technology specializations, including software engineering, networking, artificial intelligence, and video game programming, among others.
Highlights:
- Affordable tuition
- Flexible program suitable for working professionals
- Academic support through CSULB's Graduate Student Success Center
Considerations:
- Academic background in computer science or computer engineering required
- GRE scores required
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#10 Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs (2025)
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
DePaul's MS in computer science program offers extensive customization options. Students can concentrate their learning in various computer science specializations while participating in innovative research opportunities and building practical experience.
We especially like DePaul's transparent and compelling student outcome data. The university reports that, within six months of graduating, 92% of alumni land higher education or employment placements. Employed graduates have a median salary of $80,000 within six months of starting work.
DePaul uses a quarter system, which offers fall, winter, spring, and summer program start dates. This program's official STEM designation enhances its appeal to international students who qualify for extended-stay visas.
Highlights:
- Small class sizes
- Integrated with Chicago's dynamic technology industry
- Also available in online and hybrid formats
Considerations:
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 required
- Open to students from diverse undergraduate backgrounds
- Tuition cost of $955 per quarter credit
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
How We Rank Colleges and Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org ranks computer science degree programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. We also rank bootcamps and certificate programs. Our top priority is making sure you find the best possible fit for your education. We use up-to-date national statistics and focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability. This list is from 2025.
Take a closer look at our rankings on our rankings methodology page.
Why Get a Computer Science Master's Degree?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects much-faster-than-average growth in computer and technology occupations between 2023 and 2033, including an average of 356,700 job openings each year.
As organizational technology needs grow more complex, the skills gap also widens. This correlates to increased demand for computer science professionals with these skills, including workers with credentials like master's degrees. Computer science master's programs combine advanced knowledge and skills with specialized training, qualifying graduates for upper-level 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 with advanced knowledge. The BLS projects much-faster-than-average growth for computer and IT occupations from 2023 to 2033.
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Higher-Than-Average Salaries: Graduates of computer science master's programs can qualify for jobs with median salaries that exceed the national median wage 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 $145,080 in 2023, almost three times higher than the national median wage for all workers.
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 and requires 30-45 credits. Per the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition and fees for graduate degrees was $20,513 in the 2021-22 school year.
Programs often culminate in a thesis or capstone project. Research-based thesis programs often suit learners who want to pursue a doctorate or research-related careers. Course-based or practical project-based programs may most benefit students aiming for industry jobs.
Master's in Computer Science Admission Requirements
Admission criteria for master's in computer science programs vary by school. However, common requirements include:
Additionally, applicants usually submit materials like transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. Programs may require an admission interview.
Master's Degree and Specialization Options
Most institutions offer master of science (MS) degrees in computer science. Though some schools offer other related degrees, such as a master of business administration (MBA) focusing on information technology, these often lack the same focus on technology-specific topics.
For example, 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, including managing IT teams within organizations.
Computer science master's programs may also offer concentrations or even full degrees in subdisciplines like artificial intelligence, data analytics, software engineering, and cybersecurity. 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. Though specific classes vary by school, 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 elements 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 in this class.
What Will a Master's in Computer Science Degree Cost?
NCES data from the 2021-22 school year reveals graduate program tuition carried an average annual cost of $20,513.
The same data also showed an average tuition cost of $12,596 per year for graduate programs at public institutions that same year. Further breakdowns also reveal the following ranges for public colleges and universities:
- 25th percentile: $9,292
- 50th percentile (median): $11,766
- 75th percentile: $14,814
At nonprofit private institutions, average annual tuition cost $29,931 that same year. NCES reported these percentile ranges for graduate programs at nonprofit private schools:
- 25th percentile: $14,520
- 50th percentile (median): $24,534
- 75th percentile: $45,684
NCES data further indicates that in 2020, students in 100% online computer science master's programs paid an average of $11,079 in tuition and required fees — almost $9,000 lower than the $19,795 average tuition and fees graduate students across all fields paid that same year. This indicates that online programs are generally more affordable than on-campus degrees.
Many factors impact the prices and costs of higher education, including:
- School prestige and reputation
- In-state and out-of-state student residency status at public institutions
- Additional study materials and equipment such as books, computers and other technology, and software
Familiarize yourself with financial aid options as you research computer science master's degrees. First, investigate aid sources that do not require repayment, including scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Then, look into federal or private loans as a supplement or last resort.
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
- 2023 Median Annual Salary: $145,080
- Job Outlook (2023-33): +26%
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Among the highest-paying computer and information science careers, 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
- 2023 Median Annual Salary: $169,510
- Job Outlook (2023-33): +17%
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
- 2023 Median Annual Salary: $138,080
- Job Outlook (2023-33): +7%
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
- 2023 Median Annual Salary: $129,840
- Job Outlook (2023-33): +13%
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
- 2023 Median Annual Salary: $120,360
- Job Outlook (2023-33): +33%
Choosing a Computer Science Master's 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 Master's in Computer Science Online?
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
Questions About Master's in Computer Science Degrees
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 specialized roles in this field.
A computer science master's degree usually requires 30-45 credits. Students enrolled full time typically complete their degree requirements in two academic years.
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.
Typically, master's programs prefer applicants to hold a bachelor's degree in computer science or related field. However, this undergraduate credential does not always need to be computer science-related as long as you satisfy prerequisite coursework requirements.
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 pay higher-than-average salaries, offering a positive return on investment.
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