Online Master's in Computer Science

Master of Science in Computer Science

Drexel University’s accredited online Master of Science in Computer Science (MS) offers career-oriented course work that places equal emphasis on theory and practice to prepare you for work on the cutting edge of technology. The program fosters an in-depth understanding of core and advanced topics, teaching you how to use the latest tools to model and solve real world problems. The curriculum provides a solid foundation and training for practicing computational scientists, computer specialists and software engineers looking to advance their careers in business, industry or government.

Faculty interests and expertise include: applied algorithms and data structures, artificial intelligence and intelligent systems, cognitive modeling, computer graphics, computer science education, computer vision, distributed systems, high performance computing, human-computer interaction, networking and security, scientific computation, and software engineering.

Drexel University is ranked 15th for best online graduate computer information technology programs in 2019 by U.S. News and World Report.

Why Earn Your MS in Computer Science: Career & Salary Data

Students who earn an MS in Computer Science may move into senior roles as software engineers or developers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for software developers is projected to increase 17% by 2024 (faster than the average growth rate of 7%). The median wage for Software Developers is $102,280 (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics).

MS in Computer Science Program Features

Rigorous study in computer science with courses covering topics essential for today's practicing professional
An experienced faculty comprised of successful computer science professionals recognized nationally for their professional achievements and scholarly work
A highly interactive curriculum designed to challenge and engage, yet remain flexible and convenient for busy working professionals
Electives may be chosen from courses in Electrical Engineering, Information Science and Technology, and other Drexel departments to diversify your skill set

The Difference Between Computer Science and Software Engineering

While programs in computer science and software engineering cover many of the same core skills, picking the right one will depend on your specific needs. Typically, students looking for a curriculum that takes a broader focus on the theoretical and practical areas of computer science are best suited for a computer science degree, while those with an interest on design, development and testing software systems should look at a degree in systems engineering. Learn more about computer science vs software engineering degrees.

Related Programs

Drexel University offers a variety of Graduate Minors that can be added to any master's degree program.
State restrictions may apply to some programs.

Curriculum

This program is organized into four 10-week quarters per year (as opposed to the traditional two semester system) which means you can take more courses in a shorter time period. One semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 quarter credits.

General Requirements

You must complete a minimum of 45 graduate credits for the MS degree. At the beginning of your studies, you'll submit a plan of study form with your Graduate Advisor. Significant changes to the plan of study should be discussed with the Graduate Advisor.

You may transfer up to 9 approved credits (3 courses) into the program.

Core Courses		15.0
Choose 1 course from each category
Theory
CS 521	Data Structures and Algorithms I
CS 525	Theory of Computation
Computer Systems
CS 543	Operating Systems
CS 544	Computer Networks
Intelligent Systems
CS 510	Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
CS 613	Machine Learning
Programming Systems
CS 550	Programming Languages
SE 575	Software Design
Applications
CS 500	Fundamentals of Databases
CS 523	Cryptography
CS 530	Developing User Interfaces
CS 536	Computer Graphics
CS 540	High Performance Computing
CS 558	Game Engine Programming
CS 567	Applied Symbolic Computation
CS 583	Introduction to Computer Vision
CS 590	Privacy
SE 578	Security Engineering
Major Specific Electives		18.0
Choose 6 additional graduate-level CS and/or SE courses, except CS 501, CS 502, CS 503, CS 504.
May include 6 credits of thesis coursework.
Flexible Electives		12.0
Choose 4 additional courses, which may include:
Any graduate-level courses within CCI (CI, CS, CT, DSCI, INFO, SE)
Up to 6 credits of independent study (CS I599, CS I699, CS I799, CS I899, CS I999, and CS 997)
Up to 6 credits of thesis coursework (CS 898)
Up to 6 credits of related graduate-level coursework outside of CCI, with prior approval by the College
Total Credits		45.0

View Course Descriptions

Admissions Criteria

A four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or an equivalent international institution.
- Those without a prior degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related STEM degree plus work experience equal to Drexel's Graduate Certificate in Computer Science Foundations may have to take additional prerequisites before pursuing advanced computer science courses
A GPA of 3.0 or higher, in a completed degree program, bachelor's or above

Required Documents

With multiple ways to submit documents, Drexel makes it easy to complete your application. Learn more by visiting our Completing Your Application Guide.

A completed application
Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended
One letter of recommendation required, two suggested (academic, professional, or both)
Essay/Statement of Purpose
- In approximately 500 words, describe what professional goals you hope to achieve, how an advanced degree facilitates that success and anything else you want the Admissions Review Board to know about you
Resume
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores (five years old or less) are recommended, but not required for international students and domestic students with a GPA below 3.0
Additional requirements for International Students

Tuition

The tuition rate for the academic year 2025-2026 is $1481 per credit.

For the academic year 2025-2026, students enrolled in an online graduate academic program will be charged a graduate online program fee of $125 per year.

This program is eligible for Financial Aid.
Special tuition rates available for Drexel University Alumni, Military members, and members of our Partner Organizations

These rates apply only to new online students and students being readmitted.
Tuition rates are subject to increase with the start of each academic year in the fall term.
All students must contact applyDUonline@drexel.edu within the first two weeks of the term to request tuition savings for which they qualify.
Special rates cannot be combined. If you qualify for more than one special rate, you'll be given the one with the largest savings.
When receiving special tuition plans with Drexel University Online, you may not combine them with other tuition benefits that may be available from Drexel University.

Academic Calendar

2024-2025 Academic Year

Term

Classes Begin

Classes End

Exams Begin

Exams End

Fall 2024

September 23, 2024

December 7, 2024

December 9, 2024

December 14, 2024

Winter 2025

January 6, 2025

March 15, 2025

March 17, 2025

March 22, 2025

Spring 2025

March 31, 2025

June 7, 2025

June 9, 2025

June 14, 2025

Summer 2025

June 23, 2025

August 30, 2024

September 2, 2025

September 6, 2025

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Online MS in Computer Science