Computer Science, MCS
Algorithms, Big Data, Computational Science, Computer Architecture, Computer Programming, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, approved for STEM-OPT extension, computing, enggradcs
Are you seeking to expand your knowledge in the computer science field? If you have an undergraduate degree in computing or a related area, this may be the program for you.
The MCS program affords students employed in industry the opportunity to seek a breadth of advanced education in computer science.
The program reflects the dual nature of computer science as a scientific and engineering discipline by allowing emphasis on theory as well as practical applications. Students can study topics such as:
- artificial intelligence
- big data and data mining
- cloud and distributed computing
- computer system security, cybersecurity and cryptography
- cyber-physical system and IoT
- imaging, graphics and visualization
- machine learning
- operating systems
- theory and algorithms
- simulation modeling and systems
Students build a project portfolio through the program to demonstrate the knowledge gained.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
- Location: Online
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
30 credit hours and a portfolio
Required Core Areas (9 credit hours) Electives (21 credit hours) Culminating Experience (0 credit hours) Additional Curriculum Information Students choose 21 credit hours of elective coursework approved by their academic advisor. Coursework selected as part of the area core may not be used as elective coursework on the same plan of study. At least 24 of these hours must be CSE 500-level credits at ASU. Up to six credit hours of 400-level courses may be applied to the plan of study. All 30 credit hours must be from formal coursework. CSE 590 is not allowed as part of the MCS program plan of study. All MCS program students must complete a project portfolio from two courses in which the student received a "B" (3.00) grade or higher.
applications (3)
foundations (3)
systems (3)
portfolio (0)
Students should see the academic unit for the list of courses approved for each core area in applications, foundations and systems.
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, computer engineering or a closely related area from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or they must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
Applicants must submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- statement of purpose or a curriculum vitae
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. Students can find more information on the Admission Services website.
Students assigned any deficiency coursework upon admission must complete those classes with a grade of "C" (scale is 4.00= "A") or higher within two semesters of admission to the program. Deficiency courses include:
CSE 230 Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming
CSE 310 Data Structures and Algorithms
CSE 330 Operating Systems
CSE 340 Principles of Programming Languages or CSE 355 Introduction to Theoretical Computer Science
The applicant's undergraduate GPA and depth of preparation in computer science and engineering are the primary factors affecting admission.
ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | 12/01 | Final |
| Session A/C | Online | 07/21 | Final |
| Session B | Online | 09/17 | Final |
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | 08/01 | Final |
| Session A/C | Online | 12/13 | Final |
| Session B | Online | 02/12 | Final |
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | Online | 04/18 | Final |
Graduates are able to analyze key theories, algorithms and software modules used in the field of computer science.
Career examples include:
- computer network architect
- computer system analyst
- computer systems engineer
- data scientist or engineer
- machine learning, AI or computer vision engineer
- software engineer
- software developer
Computer Science and Engineering Program
On Campus: scai.grad.admission@asu.edu
ASU Online: mcsonline@asu.edu
480-965-3199
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
