The MS in Computer Science prepares students for research and professional practice in computer science and related technologies. The program includes both fundamentals and advanced work in the areas of artificial intelligence and databases, programming languages and software engineering, systems and networks, theoretical computer science, and visual computing.

Students are required to complete 30 credits corresponding to 10 graduate courses. Courses are divided into basic courses, which have no graduate course prerequisites, and advanced courses, which have graduate courses as prerequisites.

Courses are grouped in the following five broad areas:

  • Artificial Intelligence and Databases
  • Programming Languages and Software Engineering
  • Systems and Networks
  • Theoretical Computer Science
  • Visual Computing

All the following requirements should be satisfied for the MS in CS degree:

  • CS 583 Analysis of Algorithms (from the Theoretical Computer Science area) and two additional core courses from two other areas must be successfully completed with a grade of B- or better.
  • At least four courses (12 credits) must be chosen from the advanced courses in the list of pre-approved courses from at least two different areas.
  • At least six courses, including two advanced courses, must be designated CS.
  • At least eight courses must be taken from the list of pre-approved courses. Up to two computer science-related courses that are not on the list of pre-approved courses may be taken with the approval of the program director.

MS CS degree students have the option to declare a concentration in one of two areas: Concentration in Cyber Security (CYSC) or Concentration in Machine Learning (ML)

For additional information on the degree requirements of the MS in CS:

  • The MS CS section of the Mason Catalog is the official source for the degree requirements of the program.
  • These slides from the orientation for new MS students provide an overview of the program, as well as additional useful information.
  • The web pages for current MS CS students include more detailed information on the coursework and requirements of the program.
  • For information on the admissions requirements for the MS-CS program, see this web page.
  • For answers to FAQs, see this web page