Online Master of Computer Science

Offered through Arizona State University’s School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence, the online Master of Computer Science (MCS) is designed for those interested in expanding their knowledge of computer science and computation. In this program, you’ll gain an advanced understanding of topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and big data, while strengthening your skills through technical projects.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 05/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 10

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 30

Degree questions, answered.

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Prepare for in-demand high-paying jobs with a computer science master’s

Organizations across industries from health care and business to engineering and education rely on those with computer science knowledge and skills. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for computer and information research scientists is expected to grow by 23% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than average for all occupations.

Earning a Master of Computer Science is a step toward advancing your career in a lucrative field. Computer and information research scientists made a median annual salary of $136,620 in May 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The skills you’ll develop in this master’s program

 

This Master of Computer Science program is designed to build your knowledge about a range of topics from designing software for networks, graphics and database systems to integrating computer science with biology, geography, public health and more. Upon graduation, you’ll have a variety of skills, including:

  • Designing and analyzing computers.
  • Implementing computational processes.
  • Improving software reliability, network security and information retrieval systems.
  • Inventing next-generation computer systems, computer networking, biomedical information systems, gaming systems and more.
  • Transferring and transforming information.

Tailor your studies to fit your career goals

 

In this program, you’ll create a customized plan that aligns with your career goals. A majority of your courses will be electives, giving you the opportunity to explore your interests in a variety of topics, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain and software engineering.

Interested in delving deeper into specific areas of computer science and gaining career-relevant skills? Check out the two available concentrations:

  • Big data systems.
    • This concentration focuses on creating scalable systems to manage, interpret and analyze large amounts of data. You’ll also learn how to draw conclusions from data that enables organizations to make informed decisions.
  • Cybersecurity.
    • In this concentration, you’ll gain the skills needed to safeguard information systems, develop solutions and mitigate risk.

Professional certification and nondegree enrollment opportunities

  1. As a nondegree-seeking graduate student, you can take master’s-level computer science courses without being admitted to the program. This provides you the opportunity to establish a high graduate GPA, try out courses, meet the English proficiency requirement or earn a professional certification credential.

Those who complete three courses with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 after the first attempt can use this GPA and the credit hours earned when applying for the Master of Computer Science program. You must also meet all prerequisite requirements to be admitted.

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Will my diploma say ‘online’?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Earn a Master of Computer Science online from anywhere.

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Computer science master’s courses

You’ll choose one course in each of three primary areas of study: theoretical foundations, systems and applications. You’ll also take several elective courses on topics ranging from statistical machine learning and mobile computing to data mining and information assurance. This program culminates with a project portfolio, allowing you to demonstrate what you’ve learned.


Foundations

Bio-Inspired Computing


Foundations

Foundations of Algorithms


Foundations

Knowledge Representation and Reasoning


Systems

Advanced Computer Network Security


Systems

Applied Cryptography


Systems 

Distributed and Multiprocessor Operating Systems


Systems 

Information Assurance and Security


Systems

Mobile Computing


The roles a master’s in computer science prepares you for

This program can give you a leg up and advance your career in a variety of technical disciplines. Upon graduating, you’ll be equipped to pursue career paths ranging from software engineering, cloud computing and machine learning information security to application development, software QA and web development. Roles you may pursue include, but aren’t limited to:

Computer network analyst

Computer programmer

Computer scientist

Computer systems analyst

Database administrator

Information technology manager

SEO specialist

Software developer

Study with award winning faculty members in the field of computer science

Of the 350+ faculty members in Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, the majority have been honored with the highest awards in their fields. Faculty milestones include:

  • National Academy of Engineering members.
  • National Academy of Sciences member.
  • National Academy of Inventors members.
  • National Academy of Construction members.
  • More than 42 NSF CAREER Awards for early career faculty in the last five years.

Study with award winning faculty members in the field of computer science

Of the 350+ faculty members in Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, the majority have been honored with the highest awards in their fields. Faculty milestones include:

  • National Academy of Engineering members.
  • National Academy of Sciences member.
  • National Academy of Inventors members.
  • National Academy of Construction members.
  • More than 42 NSF CAREER Awards for early career faculty in the last five years.

How to apply

This program has a highly competitive admission process.

Application deadlines

Admission requirements

Professional certification and nondegree enrollment opportunities

Top 25% of all accredited engineering programs in the nation

Each student is fully supported on their path to success in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. We have received peer-reviewed programmatic honors from U.S. News & World Report and provide students with a rich learning environment.

Top 5


best online master’s in electrical engineering programs.

Top 5


best online master’s in engineering management programs.

Top 35


best undergraduate engineering programs.

60+


engineering student organizations and student professional societies.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

View the most commonly asked questions

Do prerequisites need to be taken from ASU?

Is there any credit offered for work experience in IT?

Can completing professional certification coursework satisfy prerequisites?

Are letters of recommendation required for admission?

What is a statement of purpose?

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