What can I do with a master’s in computer science?

Computers are used in nearly every aspect of our lives today—from our mobile devices to our desktops, to large systems supporting government and for-profit organizations, to supercomputers and grids of networked processors expanding the frontiers of science and technology. As a result, it’s unsurprising that the demand for highly-trained workers in these areas is booming.

Jobs for computer scientists and engineers are among the fastest growing occupations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment is projected to grow 11 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations—with a projected 531,200 new jobs created. Our graduates are employed in a wide variety of environments, including computer and electronic product manufacturing, development and support businesses, academia, military, government and more.

By earning UofL’s online master’s in computer science, you will gain the expertise and skills you need to take advantage of this industry growth. Gain skills in rapidly advancing technology including cloud computing, big data, and information security. You’ll also have the opportunity to specialize your master’s with an added certificate in Data Science or Cybersecurity—earned at no extra time or cost.

What is the expected salary with a master’s in computer science?

According to BLS, the average annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $145,080 in May 2023, which is almost three times the average wage of $59,384 for other industry occupations in the nation.

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Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.

How to Apply for the Online Master of Science in Computer Science

1. Start your application for graduate admission
2. Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
3. Upload required materials*
4. Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
5. Create a financial plan

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Online Master of Science in Computer Science Admissions Requirements and Materials

To be considered for admission, applicants must have:

• a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
• a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)

^*Required application packet materials include:

• a one-page personal statement describing the applicant’s background and interest in computer science or a professional resume
• two letters of recommendation

*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.

International Students

If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to view special requirements for international students. Online students do not qualify for US visa.

International students whose primary language is not English must show English language proficiency by either TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo score or demonstration of a degree awarded from an acceptable English language institution. The successful applicant will typically have a TOEFL score of 79 or higher or overall lELTS score of 6.5 or higher or a Duolingo score of 105 or higher.

Don’t have a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering/computer science?

You are not alone! More than ever before, professionals with non-computer science educational background are seeking to earn computer science credentials at the graduate level for career change or advancement opportunities. The online Master of Science in Computer Science at UofL is available to applicants with a technical degree or relevant experience.

Non-computer science candidates often need to complete undergraduate prerequisites before applying to the master’s program. These requirements can be completed online at UofL.

Important Note: The actual number and type of prerequisites is determined on a case-by-case basis, based on candidate’s official transcripts and evaluation of transferable credit. Also, the length of the program will depend on the number of prerequisites needed for the completion of graduate coursework.

Online MSCS Transfer Credits

You may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate coursework from an accredited university, pending department approval. See the Graduate School Transfer of Credit Policy for more information.

The program requires minimum 15 credit hours of 600 level courses. Electives must be chosen so that at least one-half of the credits counted toward the degree are 600-level.

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Course Descriptions

• Is the GRE/GMAT required?
  No, this program does not require the GRE/GMAT tests.
• Can I do the thesis option as an online student?
  Yes! Online students are welcome to do the thesis, project, or course only option.
• Are there career services for this program?
  Yes! The J.B. Speed School of Engineering offers career services for alumni and current students, including online students. For more information, please visit this webpage.
• My degree is not in Computer Science or a related area, can I still apply?

  Yes, the pre-requisites are designed as if students do not have any knowledge in Computer Science and completing the 3 pre-requisite classes will serve as a foundation for a student to be successful in this program.

  The pre-requisite classes include: CSE 130, Intro to C & C++ Programming, CSE 310 Discrete Structure, and CSE 503, Survey of CSE: Data Structure & Design of Operating Systems.