What is computer science?
Computer science is a field of study that includes the theory, development, analysis, and application of computational processes, including computer programs. Areas of specialization within computer science include: software engineering, artificial intelligence, machine learning, human-computer interaction, and more.
Why earn a master's in computer science?
Earning a computer science master's degree provides access to knowledge that will be directly applicable to an array of technical career fields, from business intelligence to software development. CSU's graduate program also exposes students to world-class research conducted by practitioners in the field of computer science.
While students come into this program with a significant set of skills already, our master's program gives them a chance to add to that skill set in two important ways:
- Research: Students explore field-specific research and incorporate it directly into their own work, which allows them to help improve performance, add more security, make processes more efficient, and create more user-friendly and expressive systems.
- Problem solving: While bachelor's students learn the basics of computer science, our master's students learn the critical skill of examining entire systems and get a more hands-on, collaborative experience.
Additionally, earning a graduate degree increases lifetime earning potential. According to the
Bureau of Labor Statistics, employees with a master's degree earn approximately 19 percent more on average compared to employees with a bachelor's degree alone. The average unemployment rate for individuals with a graduate degree is also 11 percent lower compared to those with an undergraduate degree only.
What is the difference between computer science and computer engineering?
Both computer engineers and computer scientists require an understanding of hardware and software. However, computer engineers generally focus more on the applied aspects of computer hardware, computer systems, and electrical engineering. Computer scientists typically focus more on computational processes, including algorithms, coding languages, computer programming, and the theory of computation.
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What jobs can you get with a computer science degree?
There are many different job opportunities available to people with a degree in computer science. The top six occupations for graduates with a master's in computer science are:
- Software Development
- Networking and Systems
- IT Managers
- Database Specialists
- Data Analysis and Mathematics
- Business Intelligence
Source: Burning Glass Technologies: Labor Insight. 2017.
Our graduates are highly sought after by major high–tech, computer software, and aerospace companies, like Microsoft, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, Motorola, Raytheon, and Lockheed–Martin. In addition, employment opportunities are rapidly growing in small– and medium–sized companies.
Learn more about career opportunities for computer science graduates.
How much do computer scientists make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 13 percent between 2016 and 2026. Glassdoor estimates that the national average annual salary (US) for computer scientists is $113,180. Payscale estimates that annual salary ranges currently fall between $50,000 and $124,000 annually depending on bonuses and profit sharing. However, with a master's degree, the average salary may be between $80,000 and $155,000. In 2017, Forbes listed computer science as one of 10 master's degrees with the highest earning potential.
Learn more about career opportunities for computer science graduates.
How long does a master's degree in computer science take to complete?
It is possible to complete CSU's online Master of Computer Science program in two years, although most students choose to complete their degree in a three year timeframe. The timeframe to earn your degree depends on previous coursework, course availability, and how many courses you can successfully complete each semester.
What is the total tuition for the degree?
As of 2017, the total tuition cost for the online Master of Computer Science program (not including fees) is approximately $25,056. Please contact us with specific questions about tuition, fees, admission requirements, application deadlines, or any other questions.