The computer science (CS) discipline studies computational systems and machines. Computer science professionals design and implement technological solutions to improve public or private life. A bachelor's in computer science meets the minimum degree requirements for many computer and information technology occupations, but a computer science master's degree prepares students for leadership roles in the field.
A computer science master's degree can qualify graduates for roles such as computer and information research scientist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these professionals make a median annual salary of $126,830. The BLS also projects jobs for these professionals to grow 15% between 2019-2029.
This guide ranks the best online master's in computer science programs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, such as common courses and scholarship opportunities for computer science master's students.
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What To Know Before You Apply
What kinds of jobs can you get with a computer science master's degree?
Graduates with a master's in computer science degree can pursue roles like computer and information research scientist, postsecondary teacher, and computer and information systems manager.
How long does it take to get a master's in computer science?
Computer science master's programs typically take two years of full-time study to complete, but some programs offer accelerated timelines.
Does computer science pay well?
The BLS reports that computer and information technology professionals make a median annual salary of $88,240. Master's degree graduates often earn even higher salaries.
Are computer science majors in demand?
The BLS projects jobs for computer and information technology professionals to grow 11% between 2019-2029.
Why Get a Degree in Computer Science?
Computer science master's degrees often lead to careers with high salaries and excellent job growth projections. Master's programs often feature concentrations in areas such as artificial intelligence, data visualization, computer graphics, and information security. These concentrations prepare students for specialized roles in the field.
Online master's in computer science programs often give students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Additionally, many schools offer tuition discounts to online students.
How Much Does a Computer Science Degree Cost?
The cost of a master's in computer science degree varies by factors like school, delivery format, and location. For instance, according to College Board, in-state tuition at public institutions averages about $10,560 annually, while private universities charge an average tuition rate of $37,650 annually.
Pursuing a master's in computer science online can help save students money. For example, online students often save on many of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as housing and commuting costs. Plus, many schools offer tuition discounts to online students. Online learning also gives students the flexibility to continue working while pursuing their degree.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Computer Science Majors Make?
Computer science degrees often lead to high-paying jobs in growing fields, such as computer and software engineering, information technology, and network architecture. Computer and information technology professionals make a median annual salary of $88,240, while computer and information research scientists earn a median annual salary of $126,830. Other lucrative roles for CS graduates include computer programmer, software developer, database administrator, and information security analyst.
Some master's in computer science graduates use their degree to qualify for doctoral programs. Graduates with a doctoral degree in computer science may work as computer science professors, who earn a median annual salary of $80,790.
Courses in Computer Science
Computer science master's programs often require 30-60 credits. Learners typically take core courses on topics like computer programming, statistics, software development, and mathematical modeling.
Many master's in computer science programs allow students to specialize their degree through concentrations. Common concentrations include cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, computer networking, and machine learning. Most programs also incorporate a capstone thesis or project, and some programs require an internship.
Courses vary by program, but the following list outlines several courses commonly found in master's in computer science programs.
Data Analytics
This course focuses on data collection, analysis, and visualization. Participants study quantitative concepts and methods such as probability theory, regression, and multivariate distribution. Students in this project-based course apply these tools to visualize data. This course also covers the legal and ethical issues surrounding data mining.Software Development
Software development courses build skills in mathematics, computer programming, and web application development. Learners often study foundational computer programming languages such as Java, C++, HTML, and Python. Enrollees also learn about key quality assurance practices, including software testing.Artificial Intelligence
Students in this course study algorithms and programming for autonomous problem-solving, learning, and planning purposes. Topics may include machine learning, linguistic learning, and computer vision. Students may also learn about computer-based pattern recognition, knowledge representation, and fuzzy logic.
Certifications and Licensure for Computer Science
Computer science master's degrees exceed the minimum degree requirements for many computer and information systems careers. However, some employers may prefer or require additional professional credentials. The following list outlines three relevant credentials for computer science master's graduates.
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers administers this exam-based certification to candidates with at least two years of software development experience. Applicants must complete two modules and pass an exam that covers software design, development, and testing.
Offered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association, this certification serves experienced information systems (IS) managers. Candidates need at least five years of IS management experience and passing scores on the certification exam.
The Project Management Institute grants this globally recognized certification. Candidates need at least 4,500 hours of project leadership experience and 35 hours of project management education. Candidates must also pass the PMP exam within one year of completing PMI's PMP program.
Scholarships for Computer Science
Many schools, nonprofit organizations, companies, and private donors offer scholarships that can help CS students pay for school. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for computer science master's students.
Scholarships for Computer Science
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service |
$25,000-$34,000 annual stipends, $6,000 professional allowance, and full tuition and fees remission. Recipients can renew this award for up to three years. |
The federal government offers this cybersecurity award to students pursuing related degrees at participating universities. Each university stipulates its own application requirements. Recipients must participate in 10-week summer internships and fulfill governmental employment contracts upon graduation. |
Out to Innovate Scholarships |
$3,000-$8,000 |
STEM and STEM-teaching majors who identify as LGBTQ+ and participate in related organizations or programs may apply for various Out to Innovate scholarship opportunities. Eligible candidates need a minimum 3.0 GPA. |
Upsilon Pi Epsilon Scholarship |
$1,000-$3,000 |
This scholarship goes to members of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) who participate in ACM student chapters. Only full-time students qualify. Applicants must submit personal statements, professional goal outlines, official transcripts, and recommendations from advisors. |
Online Master's in Computer Science Programs
#1 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
Colorado Technical University
- Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 years
- Online
Colorado Springs-based Colorado Technical University provides graduate programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. Busy learners can pursue the private institution's online master's programs, including an online computer science degree. Professionals currently employed in the computer science field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree.
Master's students work with faculty advisors, who provide advice and insights into the computer science field. The program's rigorous curriculum features core and specialized classes that foster field-specific and transferable skills. Master's students develop industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates. Financial aid counseling can help degree-seekers reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding.
Colorado Technical University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 13
Total Online Programs: 35
Number of Online Students: 27,043
Graduate Tuition In-State: $13,710
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $13,710
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
University of Colorado Boulder
- Boulder, CO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Colorado Boulder's academic offerings include high-quality online undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution's academic offerings include six online master's programs. While attending the school, graduate degree-seekers can pursue a professional master's in computer science. The online program's scheduling flexibility is ideal for students balancing academics with personal and professional obligations.
Learners gain transferable skills and prepare for positions in the field during core coursework and classes. Graduate students can complete internships to gain experience and bolster their resume. Graduate degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their master's degree if enrolled full time. Admissions advisors help individuals understand the application requirements for their prospective program.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution's graduate tuition rates average $11,826 for in-state students and $31,284 for out-of-state students. Enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. According to the school, 66% of the student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
11%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
Southern Methodist University
- Dallas, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Dallas, Texas, Southern Methodist University delivers academic programs online and on campus. The school has a total of 25 online master's programs.
Degree-seekers interested in computer science can pursue the online master's in computer science with an artificial intelligence specialization. Program graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current computer science career. Master's students can take advantage of faculty mentorship, experiential learning programs, and career counseling.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for enrollees to pursue graduate degrees. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners reduce out-of-pocket expenses. To graduate in less time, degree-seekers should research whether they can transfer previous graduate credits into their master's program.
Southern Methodist University at a Glance:
Per-Credit Price: $1,592
Students Receiving Aid: 82%
Students Receiving Loans: 22%
Total Master's Programs: 89
Total Online Master's Programs: 89
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Amherst, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a variety of top-ranked graduate programs, including an online MS in computer science program. With a variety of online offerings, the public institution enrolls 4,643 distance students. Online classes are ideal for learners with busy schedules.
Degree-seekers enrolled in the computer science program develop transferable skills and gain field-specific knowledge. Graduate students work closely with faculty mentors to tailor the program to their professional goals. Learners in the online master's program benefit from flexible scheduling options and career-specific training. After completing the degree, graduates often land competitive roles in their field. Students and alumni can benefit from the institution's career services.
The school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling to help graduate learners plan their academic and professional futures. Students pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#5 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
Illinois Institute of Technology
- Chicago, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners at Illinois Institute of Technology can enroll in a variety of top-ranked academic programs, including an online computer science master's program. Based in Chicago, the private institution enrolls 1,019 online students. Online programs' scheduling flexibility is ideal for learners balancing academics with personal and professional obligations.
The MAS in computer science features a rigorous curriculum and meets high academic standards. The master's program includes electives, allowing students to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. The online program prioritizes flexibility and career preparation. The computer science master's degree can qualify graduates for promotions to leadership positions. The institution offers career services, which can benefit current master's students and alumni.
Graduate-level learners can access support services including career advising, online tutoring, and financial aid counseling. The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. Additional financial aid options include private scholarships and fellowships.
Percent Online Enrollment
16%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
University of Idaho
- Moscow, ID
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Distance learners can enroll at the University of Idaho to pursue a master's in computer science. Based in Moscow, the public institution enrolls 3,770 online students. Many online programs feature flexible scheduling options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations.
Degree-seekers complete a rigorous curriculum and gain field-specific training while fulfilling requirements for the master's degree in computer science. The master's program features electives, allowing students to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. Learners in the online program develop specialized industry skills and knowledge. After earning the master's degree in computer science, graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. The institution's career services and alumni network can help master's students locate and secure professional opportunities.
Support services including career advising and financial aid counseling prepare learners to succeed academically and professionally. Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. Learners may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#7 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
City University of Seattle
- Seattle, WA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
City University of Seattle delivers online and in-person graduate programs. Busy learners can enroll in online master's programs from the private institution. The school's flexible master of science in computer science program helps students earn an affordable computer science degree.
During the first year of the online program, master's students take core classes to gain foundational computer science knowledge. After completing core requirements, degree-seekers can select elective classes to customize the program to their interests and career goals. In addition to coursework, the program offers faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
After completing the computer science program, master's degree-holders often qualify for leadership positions. Faculty advisors and career counselors help master's students and alumni locate job placements in their field.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs to help employees earn their master's degree.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#8 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
Stanford University
- Stanford, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Stanford University educates distance learners through accessible, high-quality online graduate programs. In addition to on-campus options in California, students at the private institution can pursue 11 programs in an online format. Among the school's master's programs is a respected master's degree in computer science. The online computer science program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.
Learners gain foundational knowledge during core classes and complete advanced computer science coursework to develop specialized skills. Students who plan to pursue specialized careers can complete practical learning experiences aligning with their professional goals. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate with a master's in computer science. Admissions advisors provide prospective learners with program-specific application details.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution charges an average of $52,479 for graduate tuition, regardless of state residency. At the accredited institution, enrollees who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Of the school's students, 70% obtain financial aid to fund their studies.
Percent Online Enrollment
5%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#9 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Southern California enrolls students in an online computer science program. The university educates 1,552 students through its online courses. The school offers an online master of science in computer science. The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The program emphasizes advanced skills and knowledge for computer science careers.
The institution offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 9-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty. The university's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The school offers affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. These options help master's students pay for their degree with less debt. The college has a graduation rate of 92% for its programs.
University of Southern California at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 8,203
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 55
Average Cost Per Credit: $1,948
Graduate Tuition: $46,272/year in-state and out-of-state
The University of Southern California has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#10 Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
Georgia Southwestern State University
- Americus, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, Georgia Southwestern State University offers an e-learning program in computer science. The school reports that 964 students take online classes. The institution offers an online master of science in computer science program. The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous education valued by employers. The degree’s advanced training prepares students for the workplace.
Degree-seekers benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty. Prospective students can learn more about online support services at the program's website. The program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes it easier for master's students to cover the cost of their degree. Learners can expect a 38% graduation rate at the school.
Georgia Southwestern State University Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 1,776
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 3
Graduate Tuition: $3,492/year in-state; $13,806/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,357
Average Net Price: $10,904
Georgia Southwestern State University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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