Looking for Online Masters in Computer Science No GRE Programs for 2024? Compare schools waiving the GRE for admission!
Computer technology touches nearly all aspects of modern life. It’s no surprise, then, that jobs in the computer and information technology sector are expected to increase by 11% for the next ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
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To expand your opportunities in this promising field, pursue a master’s degree in computer science. Becoming more knowledgeable about programming languages, big data, mathematics, and cloud computing can help prepare you to lead tech departments and companies into the future.
Computer Science Masters Degree Programs
Many computer science students have a particular interest in one particular aspect of the field.
Click on the one you’re most interested in to jump to that section of the guide:
Each specialization is in high demand, so choose the field you’d like to work in and know that you’ll very likely be well-compensated after graduation.
Many schools offer generalist online degrees in Computer Science, so choosing an area of specialization is not always required if you’d rather gain an overview of the field.
Artificial Intelligence
You can prepare for a career in machine learning or robotics with this specialization. In this specialization, you can study the mechanics of AI and the applications for this technology.
You can be on the cutting-edge of creating new programs that can enhance productivity in the manufacturing world, the efficiency of healthcare computers, or user experiences with everyday electronics.
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You could also enter the field of experimental AI and help to bring new conveniences to market. The field is based on programming computers to know what to do when and to improve their responses.
Cybersecurity
In classes like Network Security and Cryptography, you can learn about protecting data. Potential careers include security engineer and security consultant.
After graduation, you might work for a large corporation, an internet provider, a financial establishment, or in a governmental or military position. Wherever sensitive data is stored, it needs to be protected.
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If you’re a detail-oriented person who enjoys closing gaps in computer programs and making access points more secure, you can make this degree path into a lifelong, rewarding career.
Data Analytics
If you’re interested in statistics or marketing, consider this concentration, which focuses on mining, analyzing, and applying data. Courses may include Machine Learning and Bioinformatics.
You could pursue work at top corporations, healthcare facilities, universities, or the government. Everyone needs better ways to collect and interpret data to better serve their constituents and become more profitable.
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If you enjoy sitting back and looking at the big picture after going through the detail work of collecting samples and surveys, digital information and customer reviews, this could be a very interesting field for you.
Software Engineering
Study programming languages, web design, and user experience to help you get ready for a job as a software developer or a programmer.
This is the degree path for people who like to create and build a product from code. You also need to have the social skills to work well on a team as each person does their part to launch or improve a new program.
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After graduation, you could work for companies that supply software tools to other businesses, to consumers, or use the programs you create in-house. Knowing that others are using and enjoy your programs can be very satisfying.
Systems Creation
For those who want to build networks or systems, this concentration can provide in-depth knowledge about computer architecture.
You might use the skills gained from this program to maintain the computers and servers for a single large corporation or university or take your knowledge out to the field as a consultant or installation expert.
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If you enjoy helping companies find new solutions or improving on the systems already in place, you’ll most likely enjoy a career in Systems Creation.
Curriculum for a Computer Science Master’s Degree
When you study for an online master’s in computer science, you can expect to learn about the theories on which the field is built and the practical applications of those concepts. Curricula vary, but your coursework may resemble the following example.
- Algorithms: This theory class can equip you to achieve your programming goals by applying algorithmic strategies and data structures.
- Information Security: A cryptography or security class is an essential step in becoming an expert at protecting data and sending secure communications.
- Machine Learning: In this artificial intelligence course, you can increase your knowledge about the ways that computer systems can complete tasks, and you can learn to apply those concepts to real-world situations.
- Programming Languages: In one or more classes, you can become proficient at programming languages like Swift and Python.
- Systems and Architectures: After learning how systems and networks are designed, you may have opportunities to create your own programs.
Your coursework may also include a thesis, a final project, or a practicum.
Masters in Computer Science Jobs
The computer science and information technology field is expected to add about 546,200 jobs in ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Companies are going to be looking for educated professionals who can fill those roles, so you are likely to have many job opportunities available to you after you earn your computer science master’s degree. Here are some potential jobs you could pursue:
- Computer network architect: As an architect, you can build networks that companies can use for transmitting information. The networks will need to be customized for each company’s needs and scalable for growth.
- Computer systems analyst: If your goal is to improve the ways that a company uses technology, then consider becoming an analyst. You can work to make the company’s computer systems more customized and efficient.
- Database administrator: As a database administrator, you can be in charge of an organization’s systems for storing and managing data. You may also be responsible for protecting the data from security threats.
- Information research scientist: For a job in cutting-edge technology, consider becoming an information research scientist. You can have opportunities to develop new computing strategies and come up with innovative uses for computer technology.
- Information systems manager: In this role, you may be in charge of all of the computer-related activities in an organization. You might supervise programmers, analysts, or others in tech roles.
- Network administrator: In your position as a network administrator, you can take responsibility for the daily care and maintenance of an organization’s network. You may run tests, address problems, and plan future developments.
- Software developer: If you’re interested in creating systems or applications that run on other computers, become a developer who designs software for organizations or individuals.
Computer science jobs aren’t always with tech companies. Nearly every industry relies on the input of computer scientists including healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Masters Computer Science Salary
On average, people who work in computers and information technology earn $88,240 annually, which is ranked significantly higher than the average earnings across all occupations.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers in the computer science field include:
- Information systems manager: $146,360 per year
- Information research scientist: $122,840 per year
- Computer network architect: $112,690 per year
- Software developer: $107,510 per year
- Database administrator: $93,750 per year
- Computer systems analyst: $90,920 per year
- Network administrator: $83,510 per year
Some of these lucrative career paths are among the fastest growing in the nation. For example, positions for information security analysts are rising at a rate of 31%.
Computer Science Certifications and Licenses
In addition to earning a master’s degree in computer science, you may want to pursue industry certifications. Holding certifications demonstrates your commitment to the field and proves that you have a noteworthy level of expertise.
- Certified in Risk and Information Control: You can earn CRISC certification from ISACA to demonstrate your ability to take a leadership role in managing risk in IT applications.
- Certified Information Security Manager: Earning CISM certification from CRISC can prove to potential employers that you have the know-how to protect their IT systems from security threats. This program is particularly beneficial for information security managers.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional: Another option for a cybersecurity certification is CISSP from (ISC)². Whether you design networks or oversee their daily operations, this could be a worthwhile program for you.
Obtaining these certifications may require taking additional classes, gaining professional experience, and passing exams.
Professional Organizations for Computer Scientists
Joining a professional association can help you connect with others who work in computer science and stay informed of industry developments.
- Association for Computing Machinery: ACM is a worldwide organization dedicated to equipping professionals and advancing computer and technology science.
- Computer Science Teachers Association: If you teach computer science to kids in kindergarten through 12th grade, you’ll probably appreciate the support of CSTA.
- CompTIA: As an IT professional, you can join this organization as an individual or through a group membership sponsored by your company.
- Computing Research Association: CRA is committed to the mission of advancing computing technology through education and research.
- IEEE: This international organization represents people who work in technology, computing and engineering.
As a member of these organizations, you may have opportunities to participate in educational programs or attend conferences. In addition, you may also have access to other resources including industry publications, research articles, and discussion boards.
Masters in Computer Science Requirements for Admission
Finding a master’s program without a GRE requirement can reduce the amount of time it takes you to get started on your graduate studies and lower your overall expenses.
Of course, not relying on test scores to prove your readiness for grad school means that your other application materials must be impressive enough to garner admission committees’ interest. Keep the following pointers in mind as you prepare your applications.
- Make sure you meet the academic qualifications. Because master’s programs build on basic knowledge, your transcripts may need to include certain prerequisites in mathematics or programming languages.
- Build your professional experience. Schools may also want to see that you have experience working in this field, so you’ll probably need to submit a resume. Without sufficient professional experience, you may have to take extra classes.
- Consider GRE waivers. Don’t automatically rule out a school just because GRE scores are listed as an application requirement. Many programs will grant waivers to applicants with high GPAs, professional certifications, or otherwise strong applications.
Other components of a well-rounded application may include professional references and a personal statement about your goals in the field.
Accreditation
You should consider two types of accreditation when selecting a school for computer science: regional and programmatic.
Regional accreditation is granted to the whole school. It’s essential because it:
- Denotes that the institution holds itself to high standards.
- Makes it possible to qualify for federal financial aid.
- Increases the possibility of transferring credits.
Programmatic accreditation is given to specific departments by organizations in that industry.
Although optional, this distinction can help you recognize strong programs. For computer science grad schools, look for a seal of approval from the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Financial Aid for Computer Science Students
Even at the graduate level, there are plenty of opportunities for students to qualify for federal student aid in the form of grants and deferred loans.
You can also secure funding from:
- your state,
- your university,
- private organizations, or
- your employer.
After you fill out the paperwork for government aid, look for scholarships and talk to your employer about tuition assistance.
Should I Get a Master’s in Computer Science?
Jobs in computers and technology often pay well. If you already have a comfortable position in the field, going back to school may not be an emphasis on your to-do list.
The truth of the matter, though, is that a master’s in computer science can offer many promising benefits and additional career options.
- You may have opportunities to take positions with more responsibility. Holding a computer science master’s degree may qualify you for supervisory or senior-level positions.
- With greater responsibility often comes increased salary. You may significantly increase your annual earnings.
- Your increased computer knowledge may give you the flexibility to pursue work in a new industry. Many fields depend on the expertise of computer professionals who can manage their systems or design custom software.
- Graduate studies can give you a fresh perspective on computer science. They can help you build a better understanding of the latest innovations in the field and a research mindset that can help you stay on top of new developments long after graduation.
Depending on how you want to advance your career, you may be stuck between getting your master or PhD in computer science online. Too compare the two, a masters is a technical degree, while a PhD is more research oriented.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters in Computer Science Online?
The overall length for a master’s in computer science online program will depend on the number of credits required by your school and whether you carry a full-time or part-time course load. Yes, some universities offer part time masters in computer science programs.
Full-time enrollment in a 30 credit computer science master’s program should take about one year to be completed, and a 60 credit program may take around two years. Part-time enrollment for 30 credits may take about two years while 60 credits may take between four to five years to complete.
There are also options to enroll in one year master programs or accelerated computer science online degree programs that condense the courses into fewer weeks and allow students to potentially earn their degree sooner.
Do You Need GRE for Online Masters in Computer Science?
Many universities do not require GRE scores or other testing as part of their admissions process. If you’d rather not take this exam, you can find no GRE computer science programs or apply for a GRE waiver. Even some of the best universities for computer science may offer this option.
What Can You Do with A Masters in Computer Science?
As a computer science professional, you may already work as a systems analyst, a software developer, or a network architect.
With an online computer science master’s degree, you may be able to assume additional responsibilities, move into supervisory positions or land a job as an information research scientist.
Universities Offering Online Computer Science Masters Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
This institution is ranked among the largest public schools in the United States, and #1 in Most Innovative Schools by U.S. News & World Report. They offer undergraduate and graduate programs, with over 100,000 students enrolled both online and attending classes on-campus. There are more than 700 programs available for students at all levels. The school also participates in 25 different sports.
- Online Master of Computer Science in Cybersecurity
- Online Master of Computer Science in Big Data
Arizona State University has maintained continuous accreditation by the Higher Learning Committee (HLC) of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges since 1931.
This university was first established in 1856 as an all-male college. It has grown into a larger public research institution, with over 30,000 students enrolled. Located in Alabama, it stands out for the large amount of research that takes place at all education levels. It’s the second-largest educational institution in the state.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science and Software Engineering
Auburn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Capitol Technology University was initially founded in 1927 as an institute for the study of engineering. It started as a correspondence school until the first residences were built. It’s a private institution, and it has widened the programs it offers. These now also include business, information technology, and computer science.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
Capitol Technology University is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middles States Association of Colleges and Schools.
This private institution has an estimated enrollment of over 6,000 students every year. It’s thought of as a global university, with students all over the world. Its online degrees allow it to reach more students. Its main campus is located in Seattle, Washington. However, there are campuses in Canada, Mexico, China, Switzerland, Vietnam, Czech Republic, and Slovakia.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
City University of Seattle holds regional institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
This is the largest university of the Colorado State University System. It’s a public institution with a strong focus on research. Enrollment surpasses 30,000 students, attending classes at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including doctoral programs. There are over 65 different programs available to undergraduates and 55 degrees for graduate students.
- Online Master’s in Computer Science
Colorado State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
This private institution imparts the majority of its classes online. This makes it perfect for students that have to work or that need a flexible schedule to attend school. It offers diverse programs from the undergraduate level to doctoral degrees. The main focus of the school is business and technology.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Cybersecurity Engineering
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Data Science
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – General
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Software Engineering
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Dakota State University was first established in 1881. It started as an institution to educate professors. Therefore, education continues to be one of the most important subjects of study at this school. However, they’ve expanded their subjects, and technology is now also at the forefront of the degrees available to interested students.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
Dakota State is governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
This university, founded in 1866, is a private institution located in Michigan. It also offers numerous degrees online, which makes it very popular with older students. Subjects such as technology, health professions, and business are some of the main ones available. At Davenport, you can obtain an associate’s, bachelor’s, or graduate degree.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Security
Davenport University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
DePaul is a private institution of Roman Catholic origin. It was first established in 1898, and it’s located in the city of Chicago, Illinois. It’s the largest Catholic university in the country. One of the core values of the institution is to enroll first-generation students. Liberal Arts, health, education, and law are some of the colleges of this university.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
DePaul University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
This is a private institution with its main campus located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The university has a strong focus on research, ever since it was first established in 1936. Around 70 undergraduate programs are offered as well as approximately 100 graduate programs. The total enrollment is estimated at 26,000 students.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
Drexel University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
This public institution is located in Frostburg, Maryland. It was first founded in 1898, and it’s the only four-year institution that forms part of the University System of the state. The student body is not too large, at a little over 5,000 students enrolled. There are programs offered at all levels, with 47 undergraduate programs available but only 16 graduate programs.
- Online Master of Science in Applied Computer Science
Frostburg State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
This institution is most commonly known as Georgia Tech. It’s located in the state of Georgia, and it was first established in 1885. Georgia Tech is a public university with a focus on research. Degrees have widened from only mechanical engineering to include more types of technical as well as non-technical studies.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
The Georgia Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral degrees.
This private university is one of the best in the country, 9th in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It was founded in 1878, and it has a big focus on research. It was one of the first higher education institutions that combined teaching and research. Aside from the main campus in Maryland, there are also international centers located in China and Italy.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Lewis University was first established by the Lasallian order of the Roman Catholic church. It was founded in 1932, and approximately 6,800 students are enrolled. There’s a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs available, with over 100 options in total. The subjects offered range from aviation to business and nursing.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Cyber Security
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Digital Forensics
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Enterprise and Cloud Computing
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Game Simulation and Programming
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Software Engineering
Lewis University is accredited by, and a member of, the Higher Learning Commission.
Founded in 1971, National University is a network of nonprofit educational institutions dedicated to providing flexible, quality education for busy adults.
NU offers a Master of Science in Computer Science that can be completed online. It requires the completion of 10 courses and a 3 month project that involves helping a client solve a real problem in the field.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
National University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
This private institution is more commonly referred to as Nova, and it’s located in Davie, Florida. It started with a focus on technology, but it has expanded. Today, there are approximately 150 different programs available for attending students. Some of the subjects taught to over 20,000 students enrolled every year are pharmacy, education, nursing, and dentistry.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate’s, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist, doctoral, and professional degrees.
This university is located in Norfolk, Virginia. It’s a public institution with numerous research programs. The university was founded in 1930 as part of another college. It has grown, however, to be one of the largest institutions in the state, with almost 25,000 students.
One of the things that characterize Old Dominion is the high number of international students that attend every year.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, masters, education specialist, and doctoral degrees.
Rice University is located in Houston, Texas. It was founded in 1912, and it’s a private university with strong research programs. They keep a very small student body as they consider it enhances the quality of education. There’s one professor for every six students.
Some of the strongest programs offered by this institution are related to the health sciences and technology.
- Online Master of Computer Science
Rice University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees.
This prestigious school is one of the most selective in the country. It’s located in Stanford, California, and it was founded in 1885. This institution played an instrumental role in the development of Silicon Valley. It is one of the biggest technology hubs in the world. Both undergraduate and graduate degrees are offered, with programs that range from medicine to business.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
Stanford University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
This private institution located in Bridgeport, Connecticut has one of the most diverse student bodies. People from around 80 countries take their courses here. There are 14 colleges with varied subjects, including engineering, international affairs, nutrition, and education.
There are eight different sports teams for women and five for men. The female soccer team is one of the best in the country.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
The University of Bridgeport is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
The doors of the University of Idaho have been open since it was first founded in 1889. This public research institution is one of the leaders in education in the state. The student body has grown from four students for the first class to over 10,000 students in recent years.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
The University of Idaho is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
This university is a public institution. It’s located in Champaign-Urbana, in the state of Illinois. It’s part of the University of Illinois system, and it has a strong focus on research, being classified as an R1 Doctoral Research University. The library is one of the largest university libraries in the country.
- Online Master of Computer Science in Data Science
The University of Illinois is accredited, most recently in 2010, by the Higher Learning Commission.
Founded in 1969, this public institution is also part of the University of Illinois system. Its focus is liberal arts, and it’s one of the newest universities in the state. There are approximately 5,000 students enrolled, taking courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. There’s also a doctorate for Public Administration.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
UIS was recently reaccredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
This research institution is part of the University of Michigan. It has a great focus on research, and it’s a public university. There are 12 bachelor programs and 43 degrees available for graduate students. It offers different subjects of study, which range from health science to management, arts, and education.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science and Information Systems
University of Michigan-Flint is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
This public research institution is located in both Minneapolis and Saint Paul, in the state of Minnesota. It’s one of the oldest colleges in the state, and it has over 50,000 students enrolled. It’s part of the University of Minnesota system, with 19 colleges. It was listed among the top 20 universities in the country with the highest amount of research by National Science Foundation Survey of Research and Development.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science
All campuses of the University of Minnesota operate with the accreditation of the Higher Learning Commission.
More commonly known as Penn University, this Ivy League institution is a private school that was founded in 1740. Many consider it the first university in the United States. The first school of medicine in the country was founded here as well as the first business school, which continue to be some of the most prestigious schools in the country.
- Online Master of Computer and Information Technology
The University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
This university was founded in 1880. It’s a private institution with a strong focus on research. It’s located in Los Angeles, California. Currently, there are approximately 20,000 students enrolled. It’s a very selective institution, with programs ranging from business, to pharmacy, medicine, social work, and engineering.
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Computer Security
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Data Science
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Scientists and Engineers
- Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Software Engineering
The University of Southern California has been fully and continuously accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) since March 6, 1949.
The University of West Florida is located in Pensacola, Florida. This public institution was founded in 1963, and it’s one of the largest state universities in the country. One of the main things that stand out regarding this university is the beautiful campus, which is surrounded by two rivers.
- Online Master of Computer Science – Data Analytics
- Online Master of Computer Science – Software Engineering
The University of West Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate’s, baccalaureate, master’s, specialist, and Doctor of Education degrees.
This university is a public institution. The campus is located in Carrollton, Georgia, but classes are also offered at the Atlanta History Center, Newnan, and Douglasville. There are over 10,000 students enrolled in different colleges. Some of the programs offered are in the areas of arts and humanities, nursing, social sciences, and education.
- Online Master of Science in Applied Computer Science
UWG is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Vanderbilt University offers a Master of Science in Computer Science program online. The completion of 30 credits is required. The program offers 2 tracks, accelerated and standard. The accelerated track is taken over 3 terms and may be completed in as little as 1 year. The standard track typically takes 20 months or more.
- MS in Computer Science
Vanderbilt University is accredited by the
Is a Masters in Computer Science Worth It?
Yes, a masters in computer science is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 11% job growth in computer and information technology occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include computer and information systems manager, database administrators, and computer systems analyst.
Computer and technology jobs are growing at an astonishing rate, so it’s true that you can probably find work with just a bachelor’s degree.
On the other hand, earning your master’s in the field may increase both your opportunities and your salary. With a master’s degree, you may be considered for jobs that weren’t previously open to you.
For example, to be an information research scientist, you almost always need to have a graduate degree. A master’s degree may also qualify you to hold management or executive titles, including computer systems manager, security director, or chief information officer.
