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Best Online Master’s in Computer Science Programs of 2021
As colleges and universities navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re continuing our efforts to provide you with useful student resources and the latest online program information. Check our coronavirus resources page to learn more.
This guide gives you an overview of the top online master’s programs for computer science. It also includes information about degree requirements, tuition costs, and admission requirements.
This program is suitable for professionals who want to further their careers and for those who are pursuing a doctorate. Prospective students can use this resource and check out our sponsored master’s in computer science programs to find an option that matches their academic and career goals.
What are the Top Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science? These are our top 10 choices:
How we rank schools
Other Computer Science Programs that might interest you
Contact the universities listed below to learn more about starting dates, credit transfer, financial aid availability, and other details.
A master’s degree in computer science can prepare students for careers as computer developers, information security analysts, and computer and information research scientists. These jobs are in high demand, offering job security and competitive wages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information research scientists made a median annual salary of $118,370 in 2018; these positions also have a projected job growth rate of 16% from 2018-2028 — much higher than the national average for all jobs.
2021 Accredited Online Master’s Programs in Computer Science
1.Stanford University
LocationStanford (CA)
Students who don’t have a background in computer science will find the program flexible. It offers foundation requirements courses like probability, computer systems, automata, and complexity. The requirements for the program focus on implementation classes such as computer graphics, imaging, databases, and general gameplay. You can also explore specializations such as artificial intelligence, biocomputation, and software theory.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission has accredited Stanford.
Program Snapshot
Name of the Program: Master of Science in Computer Science
School StatusPrivate
Tuition $1,352 per credit
Credit requirements:45 Credits
Program Length:3-5 years (part-time)
FormatOnline
Style Asynchronous
Admission requirements
GPAThere is no requirement
Standardized Tests: GRE is required
2.North Carolina State University, Raleigh
LocationRaleigh, NC
The core courses include algorithms design and analysis, numerical analyses, and database management concepts, systems, concepts, and systems. This program requires that you take upper-level computer science courses as well as electives from the College of Engineering and College of Sciences.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited NC State.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Master in Computer ScienceSchool StatusPublic
Tuition$446 per credit in-state; $1,295 for credit out-of-state
Credit requirements:31 Credits
Program Length: There are many requirements, but they must all be met within six years.
FormatOnline
Style Asynchronous
Admission requirements
GPA 3.0 minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE is required
3. University of Southern California
locations Angeles, CA
Students can interact fully with instructors on campus. Lectures are available life or on-demand, and the school’s Instructional support center coordinates homework assignments, exams, and tests. Additional 500-level computer science courses are available through the core course in the analysis of algorithms, which includes web technologies, geometrical modeling, cyber-physical system, and applied cryptography. A thesis option may be available for qualified students.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission has awarded USC accreditation
Snapshot of the Program
Name of the Program: Master of Science in Computer Science
School StatusPublic
Tuition $2,148 per credit
Credit requirements:37 credits without a computer science background
Program Length:2 years
FormatOnline
StyleSynchronous or Asynchronous
Admission requirements
GPAThere is no requirement
Standardized Tests: Due to COVID-19, GRE requirements are waived
5. Boston University
LocationBoston, MA
Core courses include database design and implementation for businesses, as well as IT strategy management and management. There are also server-side web design and database security options. There are seven concentrations available in the degree that cover a variety of career areas, including data analytics, web application development, web networks, health informatics, and computer networks.
The New England Commission on Higher Education has accredited BU.
Program Snapshot
Name of the Program: Master of Science in Computer Information Systems
School StatusPrivate
Tuition$490 per credit (part-time)
Credit requirements:40 Credits
Program Length:18-24 Months
FormatOnline
Style Asynchronous
Admission requirements
GPAThere is no requirement
Standardized Tests: Not necessary
5.Southern Methodist University
LocationDallas, TX
Core courses include database management, algorithm engineering, and computer architecture. The specialization courses include Python machine learning and artificial intelligence.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited SMU.
Program Snapshot
Name of the Program: Master of Science in Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence Specialization
School StatusPrivate
Tuition $1,350 per credit
Credit requirements:30 Credits
FormatOnline
Style Asynchronous
Admission requirements
GPA 3.0 minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE waiver with work experience
