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Online MS in Computer Science
Classes Begin: January 5, 20262 years
Fully Online
45
Emphasis on theory & practice with cutting edge technology
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
- MS in Computer Security & Privacy
- MS in Software Engineering
- Graduate Certificate in Computing Systems Security & Privacy
- Graduate Certificate in Software Architecture
- Graduate Certificate in Software Management
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 | ||
| Choose 1 course from each category | 15.0 | |
|
Theory
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CS 521
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Data Structures and Algorithms I | |
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CS 525
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Theory of Computation | |
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Computer Systems
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||
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CS 543
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Operating Systems | |
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CS 544
|
Computer Networks | |
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Intelligent Systems
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||
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CS 510
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Introduction to Artificial Intelligence | |
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CS 613
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Machine Learning | |
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Programming Systems
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||
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CS 550
|
Programming Languages | |
|
SE 575
|
Software Design | |
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Applications
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||
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CS 500
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Fundamentals of Databases | |
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CS 523
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Cryptography | |
|
CS 530
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Developing User Interfaces | |
|
CS 536
|
Computer Graphics | |
|
CS 537
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Interactive Computer Graphics | |
|
CS 540
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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 | ||
| Select 18.0 credits in the 500-900 level in the following: | 18.0 | |
|
Any CS (Computer Science) **
|
||
|
Any SE (Software Engineering)
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||
| May include 6 credits of thesis coursework. | ||
| Flexible Electives | ||
| Choose 4 additional courses, which may include: | 12.0 | |
| Select from the following 500-900 level courses: | ||
|
Any CI (Computing and Informatics)
|
||
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Any CS (Computer Science)
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||
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Any CT (Computing Technology)
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||
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Any DSCI (Data Science)
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||
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Any INFO (Information Science & Systems)
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||
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Any SE (Software Engineering)
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||
| 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 | ||
| Optional Coop Experience * | 0-1 | |
|
COOP 500
|
Career Management and Professional Development for Master's Degree Students | |
| Total Credits | 45.0-46.0 | |
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 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, you may not be able to combine them with other tuition benefits that may be available from Drexel University.
Academic Calendar
2025-2026 Academic Year
Term
Classes Begin
Classes End
Exams Begin
Exams End
Fall 2025
September 22, 2025
December 6, 2025
December 8, 2025
December 13, 2025
Winter 2026
January 5, 2026
March 14, 2026
March 16, 2026
March 21, 2026
Spring 2026
March 30, 2026
June 6, 2026
June 8, 2026
June 13, 2026
Summer 2026
June 22, 2026
August 29, 2026
August 31, 2026
September 5, 2026
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