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Online MS 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.
Learn more about the 4 fastest growing jobs in the field.
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
This program is also available as a Graduate Minor.
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.
Precore Classes
Precore classes are graduate level courses, but are not considered graduate level CS courses. These courses only count towards the degree requirement listed below as free electives with approval from the Graduate Coordinator. Precore courses are intended for those without adequate CS background. The material in these courses is considered prerequisite knowledge for all other graduate CS courses.
- CS 520 Foundations of Computer Science
- CS 571 Programming Tools and Environments
You may transfer up to 9 approved credits (3 courses) into the program.
| Core Requirements | 18.0 | |
| One course marked "Core Candidate" from each of the 6 categories below. There are 2 Core Candidate courses in each category. | ||
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Theory
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CS 521
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Data Structures and Algorithms I (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 522
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Data Structures and Algorithms II | |
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CS 525
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Theory of Computation (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 618
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Algorithmic Game Theory | |
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CS 620
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Advanced Data Structure and Algorithms | |
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CS 621
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Approximation Algorithms | |
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CS 623
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Computational Geometry | |
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Intelligent Systems
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CS 500
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Database Theory (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 510
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Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 511
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Robot Laboratory | |
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CS 610
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Advanced Artificial Intelligence | |
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CS 611
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Game Artificial Intelligence | |
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CS 612
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Knowledge-Based Agents | |
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CS 613
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Machine Learning | |
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CS 615
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Deep Learning | |
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CS 660
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Data Analysis at Scale | |
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CS 661
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Responsible Data Analysis | |
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Programming Systems
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CS 550
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Programming Languages (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 650
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Program Generation and Optimization | |
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CS 675
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Reverse Software Engineering | |
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CS 676
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Parallel Programming | |
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SE 575
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Software Design (Core Candidate) | |
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SE 576
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Software Reliability and Testing | |
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SE 577
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Software Architecture | |
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SE 578
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Security Engineering | |
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Computer Systems
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CS 543
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Operating Systems (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 544
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Computer Networks (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 643
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Advanced Operating Systems | |
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CS 645
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Network Security | |
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CS 647
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Distributed Systems Software | |
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Vision and Graphics
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CS 536
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Computer Graphics (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 537
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Interactive Computer Graphics | |
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CS 558
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Game Engine Programming | |
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CS 583
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Introduction to Computer Vision (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 634
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Advanced Computer Vision | |
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CS 636
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Advanced Computer Graphics | |
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Applications
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CS 530
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Developing User Interfaces (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 540
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High Performance Computing (Core Candidate) | |
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CS 567
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Applied Symbolic Computation | |
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CS 590
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Privacy | |
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CS 630
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Cognitive Systems | |
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CS 668
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Computer Algebra I | |
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CS 669
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Computer Algebra II | |
| Breadth Requirements | 9.0 | |
| An additional 3 courses from the remaining courses above, spanning at least 2 of the listed categories. | ||
| Depth Requirements | 6.0 | |
| At least 2 600- or 700-level Computer Science (CS) courses beyond the breadth requirement. The CS 690 Independent Study course may be taken if approved by the College. | ||
| Additional Graduate-Level Courses | 6.0 | |
| Two additional graduate level courses are required. These courses are typically 600- or 700-level Computer Science (CS) courses. Graduate courses may be taken from outside the department, if on the list of approved external courses, and may include CS 690 Independent Study (CS I599, CS I699, CS I799) and CS 997 Research in Computer Science, if approved by the College. | ||
| Other courses, such as intermediate 500-level and special topics, may also qualify for fulfilling this requirement. You must check with your advisor, and have these courses approved by the College. Any course offered by another department that is not on the list of approved external courses must be approved by the College, or it will not count towards the degree. | ||
| Thesis or Non-Thesis Option | 6.0 | |
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Thesis Option
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Usually students pursuing a Master's Thesis will first do 3.0 research credits (CS I599, CS I699, CS I799 or C997) to obtain background knowledge required by the thesis topic. It is your responsibility to find a thesis supervisor.
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CS 898
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Master's Thesis | |
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Non-thesis Option
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The non-thesis option requires 2 additional 600- or 700-level Computer Science (CS) courses taken in place of the 6.0 thesis credits.
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| Total Credits | 45.0 | |
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 Math (plus programming) may have to take additional prerequisites before pursuing advanced computer science courses.
- A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 for the last two years of undergraduate work
- If any other graduate work has been completed, the average GPA must be at least 3.0
- Your academic background should closely match the program's pre-requisites
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
- Scores from the General Aptitude Test of the GRE
- Scores in the 50th percentile or above in all three sections are sought
- Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended
- One letter of recommendation, two suggested (academic, professional, or both)
- A 500 word essay on why you wish to pursue the program
- Resume
- Additional requirements for International Students
Tuition
The tuition rate for the academic year 2020-2021 is $1342 per credit.
- 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.
- These rates apply only to fully online courses. Hybrid or on-campus courses may have different rates.
- 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
2019-2020 Academic Year
Term
Classes Begin
Classes End
Exams Begin
Exams End
Fall 2019
September 23, 2019
December 7, 2019
December 9, 2019
December 14, 2019
Winter 2020
January 6, 2020
March 16, 2020
March 17, 2020
March 21, 2020
Spring 2020
April 6, 2020
June 8, 2020
June 9, 2020
June 13, 2020
Summer 2020
June 22, 2020
August 30, 2020
September 2, 2020
September 5, 2020
2020-2021 Academic Year
Term
Classes Begin
Classes End
Exams Begin
Exams End
Fall 2020
September 21, 2020
December 5, 2020
December 7, 2020
December 12, 2020
Winter 2021
January 4, 2021
March 13, 2021
March 15, 2021
March 20, 2021
Spring 2021
March 29, 2021
June 5, 2021
June 7, 2021
June 12, 2021
Summer 2021
June 21, 2021
August 28, 2021
August 30, 2021
September 4, 2021
Apply today for the Online MS in Computer Science
Apply now to begin your application for obtaining a Drexel degree online!
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