- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best computer science master's degree programs reveals that software Developers earn a median salary of $136,620 with 25% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Computer Science programs include University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Southern California, University of California-San Diego based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers computer science education at $14,768/year with 90% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Computer Science programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Computer Science Programs - Top 10 Master's
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Georgia Tech's CS program is distinguished by offering the same top-10 ranked Master's degree both on-campus and online (OMSCS), making elite computer science education uniquely accessible and affordable.
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus as the #1 master's in computer science degree program.
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. With a 95% within 6 months job placement rate, graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles. Research opportunities include the Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Machines (IRIM) and Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Microsoft, Amazon. Located in Atlanta's thriving tech hub with major companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon having significant presence Graduates find positions at Google, Microsoft, Amazon.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Robotics, AI, and autonomous systems
Information security, privacy, and cybersecurity research
Deep learning, neural networks, and AI applications
Computer graphics, VR/AR, and human-computer interaction
Location Advantages
- •Located in Atlanta's thriving tech hub with major companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon having significant presence
- •Access to extensive internship and job opportunities in the Southeast's largest technology corridor
- •Proximity to the CDC, offering unique opportunities in computational health and bioinformatics
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Apple
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Southern California
USC's CS program uniquely combines Silicon Beach's tech ecosystem with Hollywood's entertainment industry, offering specialized tracks in game development and digital media that are unmatched by other California universities.
University of Southern California Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #2 master's in computer science degree program.
University of Southern California's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. With a 95% within 6 months job placement rate, graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles. Research opportunities include the Information Sciences Institute (ISI) and USC Vision and Graphics Lab. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Microsoft, Amazon. Access to Silicon Beach tech ecosystem with startups and major tech companies Graduates find positions at Google, Microsoft, Amazon.
Hakia Insight: With a 22% acceptance rate, University of Southern California's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
AI, cybersecurity, and computational systems
Computer vision, graphics, and machine learning
Network protocols and distributed systems
Data mining, machine learning, and AI
Location Advantages
- •Access to Silicon Beach tech ecosystem with startups and major tech companies
- •Proximity to Hollywood entertainment industry for multimedia and game development opportunities
- •Year-round networking events and tech meetups in Los Angeles
- •Strong alumni network in Southern California tech industry
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook/Meta, Apple
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Columbia University in the City of New York
Columbia combines Ivy League prestige with NYC tech and finance ecosystem. Leading research in NLP, machine learning, and computational biology. Strong quant finance career pipeline.
Columbia University in the City of New York Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Columbia University in the City of New York as the #3 master's in computer science degree program.
Columbia University in the City of New York's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. Research opportunities include the Computer Graphics Lab and Computer Vision Lab. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan. NYC tech and finance hub Graduates find positions at Google, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, Columbia University in the City of New York's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
computer graphics
computer vision
databases and digital libraries
data mining
distributed systems
mobile computing
NLP
networking
robotics
user interfaces
Location Advantages
- •NYC tech and finance hub
- •Ivy League prestige
- •Quant finance pipelines
- •Media industry access
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Two Sigma, Meta
Admissions
University of California-Berkeley
UC Berkeley's CS Master's program uniquely combines Turing Award-winning faculty with direct access to Silicon Valley innovation, offering both traditional research-focused MS degrees and industry-oriented MEng programs within one of the top-ranked computer science departments globally.
University of California-Berkeley Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #4 master's in computer science degree program.
University of California-Berkeley's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. With a 95% within 6 months job placement rate, graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles. Research opportunities include the Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research (BAIR) and AMPLab. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Microsoft, Intel. Direct access to Silicon Valley tech ecosystem and startup culture Graduates find positions at Google, Facebook/Meta, Apple.
Hakia Insight: With a 8% acceptance rate, University of California-Berkeley's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Machine learning, computer vision, robotics, and natural language processing
Big data analytics and distributed computing systems
Data science methodologies and applications across disciplines
Real-time intelligent secure execution systems
Wireless communications and networking technologies
Location Advantages
- •Direct access to Silicon Valley tech ecosystem and startup culture
- •Proximity to major tech companies for internships and full-time opportunities
- •Rich academic environment with collaboration opportunities across UC Berkeley departments
- •Access to venture capital and entrepreneurship networks in the Bay Area
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Facebook/Meta, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
UW Allen School uniquely eliminates the traditional standalone master's degree in favor of specialized pathways: a fully-funded Ph.D. track, an exclusive fifth-year master's for their own undergraduates, and a part-time professional program for regional tech workers, all housed in the state-of-the-art Paul G. Allen Center and Bill & Melinda Gates Center facilities.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #5 master's in computer science degree program.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. Research opportunities include the Artificial Intelligence Research and Computing + Biology Research. Industry connections include partnerships with Microsoft, Allen Institute for AI (Ai2), Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Located in Seattle tech hub Graduates find positions at Major technology companies, Academic institutions, Research laboratories.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Washington-Seattle Campus benefit from active collaborations with Microsoft and Allen Institute for AI (Ai2), connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Core AI research and applications
Interdisciplinary research at the intersection of computing and life sciences
Technology design and human-computer interaction
Location Advantages
- •Located in Seattle tech hub
- •Direct access to Microsoft and Amazon headquarters
- •Proximity to hundreds of technology companies
- •Strong venture capital and startup ecosystem
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Major technology companies, Academic institutions, Research laboratories
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-San Diego
UCSD's CS Master's program uniquely combines world-leading AI and machine learning research with direct access to San Diego's biotech and telecommunications industries.
University of California-San Diego Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #6 master's in computer science degree program.
University of California-San Diego's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. With a 95% within 6 months job placement rate, graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles. Research opportunities include the Computer Vision Lab and AI Lab. Industry connections include partnerships with Qualcomm, Google, Microsoft. Located in San Diego's tech corridor with access to major biotech and telecommunications companies Graduates find positions at Google, Microsoft, Amazon.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, University of California-San Diego's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Computer vision, machine learning, and robotics
Artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and cognitive science
Distributed systems, networking, and security
Computer graphics, visualization, and human-computer interaction
Location Advantages
- •Located in San Diego's tech corridor with access to major biotech and telecommunications companies
- •Close proximity to Qualcomm, major research institutes, and numerous startups
- •Year-round mild climate ideal for outdoor activities and quality of life
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Qualcomm, Apple
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Los Angeles
UCLA's CS Master's program uniquely combines top-tier research opportunities with direct access to Los Angeles's diverse tech ecosystem, from Hollywood's entertainment technology to aerospace giants and emerging startups.
University of California-Los Angeles Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Los Angeles as the #7 master's in computer science degree program.
University of California-Los Angeles's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. With a 95% within 6 months job placement rate, graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles. Research opportunities include the Center for Vision, Cognition, Learning and Autonomy (VCLA) and Internet Research Laboratory. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Microsoft, Amazon. Access to Los Angeles tech ecosystem including aerospace, entertainment, and startups Graduates find positions at Google, Microsoft, Amazon.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, University of California-Los Angeles's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Computer vision, machine learning, and AI
Network protocols, distributed systems, and cybersecurity
Software engineering, programming languages, and analysis
Computer-aided design and electronic design automation
Location Advantages
- •Access to Los Angeles tech ecosystem including aerospace, entertainment, and startups
- •Proximity to major tech companies with LA offices including Google, Amazon, and Microsoft
- •Strong connections to Hollywood entertainment technology industry
- •Year-round networking and internship opportunities in diverse industries
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, Meta
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Irvine
UCI's Master's CS program uniquely combines cutting-edge research in games and virtual worlds with traditional computer science disciplines, housed within one of the most comprehensive information and computer sciences schools in the UC system.
University of California-Irvine Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Irvine as the #8 master's in computer science degree program.
University of California-Irvine's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. With a 95% within 6 months job placement rate, graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles. Research opportunities include the Center for Machine Learning and Intelligent Systems and Security and Privacy Research Group. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Microsoft, Intel. Located in Orange County with access to major tech companies and startups Graduates find positions at Google, Microsoft, Amazon.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, University of California-Irvine's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Machine learning, data mining, and artificial intelligence
Cybersecurity, privacy, and cryptography
Computer graphics, visualization, and virtual reality
Software engineering, programming languages, and systems
Location Advantages
- •Located in Orange County with access to major tech companies and startups
- •Close proximity to Los Angeles tech scene and Silicon Beach
- •Strong connections to entertainment industry for computer graphics and gaming applications
- •Year-round mild climate conducive to outdoor activities and quality of life
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, Meta
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Cornell University
Cornell uniquely offers both a fully-funded research MS in Ithaca with mandatory teaching experience and a one-year industry-focused MEng at Cornell Tech in NYC, where students build actual products for real companies through the first-of-its-kind Studio curriculum.
Cornell University Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Cornell University as the #9 master's in computer science degree program.
Cornell University's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. With a 90% of Cornell Tech CS graduates accept Software Developer roles job placement rate, graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles. Research opportunities include the Initiative for Cryptocurrencies & Contracts (IC3) and Digital Life Initiative (DLI). Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Grammarly, IBM. Ithaca campus provides access to Cornell's world-class research infrastructure Graduates find positions at Google, Facebook, Amazon.
Hakia Insight: Students at Cornell University benefit from active collaborations with Google and Grammarly, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Blockchain science and cryptocurrency research
Ethics, policy, and quality of life in socio-technical systems
Mobile sensing systems for capturing human context and activities
Augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality research
Location Advantages
- •Ithaca campus provides access to Cornell's world-class research infrastructure
- •Cornell Tech NYC location offers direct access to major tech companies and startups
- •Manhattan campus facilitates real-world industry partnerships and internships
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Carnegie Mellon University
CMU Computer Science Department is home to the birthplace of the emoticon smiley :-) created by faculty member Scott Fahlman, and consistently produces graduates with median starting salaries of $135,000 who secure positions at elite firms like Jane Street (13 hires in 2023), with the program's flexible, advisor-guided curriculum allowing students to craft personalized study paths rather than following fixed course sequences.
Carnegie Mellon University Master's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Carnegie Mellon University as the #10 master's in computer science degree program.
Carnegie Mellon University's graduate Computer Science program offers advanced study for professionals seeking to deepen expertise and accelerate their careers. With a Exceptional based on 2023 outcomes job placement rate, graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles. Students benefit from cutting-edge research at the Computer Science Department Research Areas. Industry connections include partnerships with Jane Street, Amazon/AWS, Microsoft. Pittsburgh tech ecosystem access Graduates find positions at Jane Street, Amazon, Microsoft.
Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn $135,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on computer science curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Six major research divisions: Artificial Intelligence, Graphics, Programming Languages, Security, Systems, and Theory
Location Advantages
- •Pittsburgh tech ecosystem access
- •Strong industry partnerships with major tech companies
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Jane Street, Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Meta
Admissions
Best Computer Science Programs - Top 10 Master's — Complete Program Data
#1. Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus as the #1 master's in computer science degree program. Location: Atlanta, GA | Type: Public | Tuition: $10,258/year | Graduation Rate: 76% | Score: 100.0
What makes Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus stand out: Georgia Tech's CS program is distinguished by offering the same top-10 ranked Master's degree both on-campus and online (OMSCS), making elite computer science education uniquely accessible and affordable.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: Georgia Tech's Master of Science in Computer Science program is renowned as one of the top-ranked CS graduate programs globally, consistently ranking in the top 10 nationally. The program offers exceptional flexibility with multiple specialization areas including machine learning, cybersecurity, computing systems, and human-computer interaction. Georgia Tech pioneered accessible graduate CS education through its groundbreaking Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) program, which delivers the same rigorous curriculum as the on-campus program at a fraction of the cost. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with strong ties to industry and cutting-edge research opportunities across numerous specialized labs. Students benefit from world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and Georgia Tech's reputation as a premier technological research institution.
Degree Programs: MS in Computer Science (Thesis) (2 years); MS in Computer Science (Non-Thesis) (1.5-2 years); Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) (2-6 years)
Research Labs: Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Machines (IRIM) - Robotics, AI, and autonomous systems; Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute - Information security, privacy, and cybersecurity research; Machine Learning Center - Deep learning, neural networks, and AI applications; Graphics, Visualization & Usability Center - Computer graphics, VR/AR, and human-computer interaction
Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, NSA
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95% within 6 months | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Apple, IBM | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Research Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst
Notable Faculty: Tucker Balch (Machine learning and computational finance); Charles Isbell (Machine learning and human-computer interaction); Wenke Lee (Cybersecurity and network security)
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum (higher competitive average around 3.7) | Acceptance Rate: 15-25%
Accreditations: ABET accredited, NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Research (CAE-R)
#2. University of Southern California Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #2 master's in computer science degree program. Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Private | Tuition: $66,640/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 99.9
What makes University of Southern California stand out: USC's CS program uniquely combines Silicon Beach's tech ecosystem with Hollywood's entertainment industry, offering specialized tracks in game development and digital media that are unmatched by other California universities.
Hakia Insight: With a 22% acceptance rate, University of Southern California's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: USC's Master of Science in Computer Science program, housed within the prestigious Viterbi School of Engineering, is renowned for its strong emphasis on both theoretical foundations and practical applications. The program offers exceptional flexibility with multiple specialization tracks including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, game development, and software engineering. USC's location in Los Angeles provides unparalleled access to the entertainment industry, tech startups, and major corporations, creating unique opportunities for interdisciplinary research and career development. The program is distinguished by its world-class faculty, many of whom are leaders in emerging fields like machine learning, computer vision, and quantum computing. Students benefit from small class sizes, extensive research opportunities, and strong industry connections that facilitate internships and job placements at top-tier companies.
Degree Programs: MS in Computer Science (General) (1.5-2 years); MS in Computer Science (Scientists and Engineers) (1.5-2 years); MS in Computer Science (Game Development) (2 years)
Research Labs: Information Sciences Institute (ISI) - AI, cybersecurity, and computational systems; USC Vision and Graphics Lab - Computer vision, graphics, and machine learning; Autonomous Networks Research Group - Network protocols and distributed systems; Intelligence and Knowledge Discovery Lab - Data mining, machine learning, and AI
Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Disney, DARPA, NSF
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95% within 6 months | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook/Meta, Apple, Disney, Netflix | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Game Developer, Research Scientist
Notable Faculty: Fei-Fei Li (Computer vision and AI); Wei-Min Shen (Robotics and distributed systems); Ramesh Govindan (Computer networks and systems)
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum | Acceptance Rate: 22%
Accreditations: ABET accredited, WASC accredited
#3. Columbia University in the City of New York Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Columbia University in the City of New York as the #3 master's in computer science degree program. Location: New York, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $64,526/year | Graduation Rate: 100% | Score: 99.4
What makes Columbia University in the City of New York stand out: Columbia combines Ivy League prestige with NYC tech and finance ecosystem. Leading research in NLP, machine learning, and computational biology. Strong quant finance career pipeline.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, Columbia University in the City of New York's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: Columbia CS graduate programs rank top 15 nationally with world-class research in AI, NLP, and systems. NYC location provides unparalleled finance and tech industry access. Strong focus on machine learning and data science research.
Degree Programs: BS; BA; BA in Computer Science and Mathematics; BA in Computational Biology; BA in Data Science; BA in Information Science
Research Labs: Computer Graphics Lab - computer graphics; Computer Vision Lab - computer vision; Databases and Digital Libraries Lab - databases and digital libraries; Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery Lab - data mining; Distributed Systems Lab - distributed systems; Mobile and Wearable Computing Lab - mobile computing; Natural Language Processing Lab - NLP; Networking Lab - networking; Robotics Lab - robotics; User Interfaces Lab - user interfaces
Industry Partners: Google, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Two Sigma
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Two Sigma, Meta | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Quantitative Developer, Data Scientist, ML Engineer
Notable Faculty: Dr. Jae Woo Lee (Director of Undergraduate Studies)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 15%
#4. University of California-Berkeley Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #4 master's in computer science degree program. Location: Berkeley, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 98.7
What makes University of California-Berkeley stand out: UC Berkeley's CS Master's program uniquely combines Turing Award-winning faculty with direct access to Silicon Valley innovation, offering both traditional research-focused MS degrees and industry-oriented MEng programs within one of the top-ranked computer science departments globally.
Hakia Insight: With a 8% acceptance rate, University of California-Berkeley's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UC Berkeley's Master's Computer Science program, offered through the renowned Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) department, represents one of the most prestigious and rigorous graduate programs in computer science globally. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with students choosing between research-oriented (MS) and professional (MEng) tracks. Berkeley's approach combines cutting-edge research opportunities with strong industry connections in the heart of Silicon Valley's extended ecosystem, fostering innovation through interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, mathematics, and other fields. The program is distinguished by its world-class faculty, many of whom are Turing Award winners and pioneers in their respective fields, and its commitment to addressing real-world challenges through computational solutions. Students benefit from small class sizes in graduate courses, extensive research opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities including specialized labs for AI, robotics, systems, and theory.
Degree Programs: Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science (2 years); Master of Engineering (MEng) in Computer Science (1 year); MS/PhD in Computer Science (5-7 years)
Research Labs: Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research (BAIR) - Machine learning, computer vision, robotics, and natural language processing; AMPLab - Big data analytics and distributed computing systems; Berkeley Institute for Data Science (BIDS) - Data science methodologies and applications across disciplines; RISELab - Real-time intelligent secure execution systems; Berkeley Wireless Research Center - Wireless communications and networking technologies
Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Intel, IBM, Facebook, Apple, DARPA
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95% within 6 months | Top Employers: Google, Facebook/Meta, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Tesla, Uber | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Research Scientist, Data Scientist, Product Manager, ML Engineer
Notable Faculty: Stuart Russell (Artificial Intelligence); Michael Jordan (Machine Learning); Dawn Song (Computer Security); Pieter Abbeel (Robotics and AI)
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum, typically 3.7+ competitive | Acceptance Rate: 8-12%
Accreditations: ABET accredited (undergraduate programs), WASC accredited institution
#5. University of Washington-Seattle Campus Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #5 master's in computer science degree program. Location: Seattle, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,524/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 92.4
What makes University of Washington-Seattle Campus stand out: UW Allen School uniquely eliminates the traditional standalone master's degree in favor of specialized pathways: a fully-funded Ph.D. track, an exclusive fifth-year master's for their own undergraduates, and a part-time professional program for regional tech workers, all housed in the state-of-the-art Paul G. Allen Center and Bill & Melinda Gates Center facilities.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Washington-Seattle Campus benefit from active collaborations with Microsoft and Allen Institute for AI (Ai2), connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: The University of Washington's Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering operates as one of the nation's premier computer science programs, consistently ranking among the top programs nationally. The school offers a comprehensive graduate education ecosystem that uniquely serves different student populations without a traditional standalone master's degree. Instead, UW provides a research-intensive Ph.D. program where students earn both master's and doctoral degrees with full financial support, a Combined B.S./M.S. program (also called the Fifth Year Master's Program) exclusively for current Allen School undergraduates, and a Professional Master's Program designed as a part-time evening option for working professionals in the Puget Sound region. The school recently launched a Graduate Certificate in Modern AI Methods starting fall 2025, designed for working professionals across industries seeking to leverage cutting-edge AI and machine learning techniques.
Degree Programs: Full-time Ph.D. Program (5-7 years); Combined B.S./M.S. Program (Fifth Year Master's) (1 year beyond bachelor's); Professional Master's Program (PMP) (Variable); Graduate Certificate in Modern AI Methods (Variable)
Research Labs: Artificial Intelligence Research - Core AI research and applications; Computing + Biology Research - Interdisciplinary research at the intersection of computing and life sciences; Human-Centered Computing Research - Technology design and human-computer interaction
Industry Partners: Microsoft, Allen Institute for AI (Ai2), Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Toyota Research Institute
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Major technology companies, Academic institutions, Research laboratories | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Research Scientist, Academic Faculty, Technology Leadership
Notable Faculty: Professor Natasha Jaques (AI safety and human-AI interaction); Professor Sheng Wang (computational biology and AI for healthcare); Professor James Fogarty (human-computer interaction); Professor Shyam Gollakota (mobile intelligence and networking); Professor Noah Smith (artificial intelligence); Professor Katharina Reinecke (human-computer interaction and digital culture); Professor Ira Kemelmacher-Shlizerman (computer vision and graphics)
Admissions:
Accreditations: ABET accredited Computer Engineering degree program
#6. University of California-San Diego Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #6 master's in computer science degree program. Location: La Jolla, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 81% | Score: 92.2
What makes University of California-San Diego stand out: UCSD's CS Master's program uniquely combines world-leading AI and machine learning research with direct access to San Diego's biotech and telecommunications industries.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, University of California-San Diego's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UC San Diego's Master's Computer Science program is housed within the Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute and the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, offering a world-class education that emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications. The program is particularly renowned for its strength in artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, and systems research, with faculty who are leaders in these rapidly evolving fields. UCSD's approach combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive research opportunities, allowing students to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge projects that often result in top-tier publications and industry collaborations. The program benefits from UCSD's location in the heart of San Diego's thriving tech ecosystem, providing students with exceptional access to internships and career opportunities at major technology companies, biotech firms, and startups. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies toward either research-focused academic careers or industry positions, with strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, medicine, and data science.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Engineering (4 years); BS Artificial Intelligence (4 years); BS Computer Science with Bioinformatics Specialization (4 years)
Research Labs: Computer Vision Lab - Computer vision, machine learning, and robotics; AI Lab - Artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and cognitive science; Systems and Networking Lab - Distributed systems, networking, and security; Graphics Lab - Computer graphics, visualization, and human-computer interaction
Industry Partners: Qualcomm, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Illumina
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95% within 6 months | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Qualcomm, Apple | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Research Scientist, Data Scientist, ML Engineer
Notable Faculty: Laurence Saul (Machine learning and speech recognition); Stefan Savage (Computer security and networking); Ravi Ramamoorthi (Computer graphics and computer vision)
Admissions: GPA: 3.5 minimum recommended | Acceptance Rate: 15-20%
Accreditations: ABET accredited
#7. University of California-Los Angeles Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Los Angeles as the #7 master's in computer science degree program. Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 91.6
What makes University of California-Los Angeles stand out: UCLA's CS Master's program uniquely combines top-tier research opportunities with direct access to Los Angeles's diverse tech ecosystem, from Hollywood's entertainment technology to aerospace giants and emerging startups.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, University of California-Los Angeles's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UCLA's Master's Computer Science program, housed within the highly-ranked Samueli School of Engineering, emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications through its comprehensive curriculum and world-class research opportunities. The program stands out for its strong connections to the thriving Los Angeles tech ecosystem, including entertainment technology, aerospace, and emerging startups, while maintaining rigorous academic standards that consistently rank it among the top public CS programs nationally. Students benefit from UCLA's collaborative research culture, with opportunities to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge projects in artificial intelligence, computer vision, cybersecurity, and biocomputing, while also having access to the university's extensive industry partnerships and alumni network throughout Silicon Valley and Southern California.
Degree Programs: MS in Computer Science (Thesis) (2 years); MS in Computer Science (Comprehensive Exam) (2 years); MS in Computer Science (Capstone Project) (2 years)
Research Labs: Center for Vision, Cognition, Learning and Autonomy (VCLA) - Computer vision, machine learning, and AI; Internet Research Laboratory - Network protocols, distributed systems, and cybersecurity; SEAL Laboratory - Software engineering, programming languages, and analysis; UCLA NanoCAD Laboratory - Computer-aided design and electronic design automation
Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Northrop Grumman, JPL/NASA
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95% within 6 months | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Netflix | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Research Scientist, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer
Notable Faculty: Lixia Zhang (Internet architecture and named data networking); Jason Cong (Electronic design automation and reconfigurable computing); Miryung Kim (Software engineering and program analysis); Song-Chun Zhu (Computer vision and machine learning)
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum | Acceptance Rate: 15-20%
Accreditations: ABET accredited
#8. University of California-Irvine Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Irvine as the #8 master's in computer science degree program. Location: Irvine, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 90.2
What makes University of California-Irvine stand out: UCI's Master's CS program uniquely combines cutting-edge research in games and virtual worlds with traditional computer science disciplines, housed within one of the most comprehensive information and computer sciences schools in the UC system.
Hakia Insight: With a 15% acceptance rate, University of California-Irvine's computer science program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UC Irvine's Master of Computer Science program is distinguished by its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and innovation within the Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences. The program offers both thesis and comprehensive exam tracks, allowing students to pursue either research-intensive or professional development paths. UCI's CS program is particularly renowned for its work in machine learning, cybersecurity, computer graphics, and software engineering, with faculty who are leaders in these fields and maintain strong connections to Silicon Valley and Southern California's thriving tech ecosystem. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through research opportunities, industry collaborations, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Students benefit from UCI's location in Orange County, providing access to both established tech companies and emerging startups, while the university's strong alumni network facilitates career placement and professional development.
Degree Programs: Master of Science in Computer Science (Thesis Track) (2 years); Master of Science in Computer Science (Comprehensive Exam Track) (1.5-2 years); Master of Computer Science (Professional) (1-2 years)
Research Labs: Center for Machine Learning and Intelligent Systems - Machine learning, data mining, and artificial intelligence; Security and Privacy Research Group - Cybersecurity, privacy, and cryptography; Graphics Lab - Computer graphics, visualization, and virtual reality; Institute for Software Research - Software engineering, programming languages, and systems
Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Intel, Broadcom, Blizzard Entertainment
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95% within 6 months | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Salesforce, Blizzard Entertainment | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Research Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Security Engineer
Notable Faculty: Prof. Padhraic Smyth (Machine Learning and Data Science); Prof. Gene Tsudik (Computer Security and Privacy); Prof. Pierre Baldi (Machine Learning and Bioinformatics)
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum (3.5+ competitive) | Acceptance Rate: 15-20%
Accreditations: ABET accredited, WASC accredited
#9. Cornell University Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Cornell University as the #9 master's in computer science degree program. Location: Ithaca, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $65,204/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 89.6
What makes Cornell University stand out: Cornell uniquely offers both a fully-funded research MS in Ithaca with mandatory teaching experience and a one-year industry-focused MEng at Cornell Tech in NYC, where students build actual products for real companies through the first-of-its-kind Studio curriculum.
Hakia Insight: Students at Cornell University benefit from active collaborations with Google and Grammarly, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: Cornell University offers multiple pathways into computer science graduate education, each with distinct advantages for different career trajectories. The Master of Science in Computer Science, housed at Cornell's Ithaca campus, represents a highly selective, research-intensive program that combines advanced coursework with mandatory thesis research and teaching assistantships. This four-semester program requires 34 credit hours, including 6-12 credits of thesis research, and provides full funding through teaching assistantships for students maintaining good standing. In New York City, Cornell Tech offers a one-year Master of Engineering in Computer Science designed for immediate industry impact, featuring the innovative Studio curriculum where students build complete digital solutions for real companies in cross-disciplinary teams with business and law students. The Ithaca MS program particularly appeals to self-motivated researchers who thrive in mentoring environments, as students gain valuable teaching experience with undergraduates while conducting specialized research. Cornell Tech's Manhattan location provides direct access to NYC's tech ecosystem, with students working on innovation challenges from real companies and learning from faculty with extensive industry experience. Both programs benefit from Cornell's broader research infrastructure, including world-class facilities like the Cornell Center for Advanced Computing and specialized research groups in artificial intelligence, security and privacy, and human-computer interaction.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science; Bachelor of Science in Computer Science; Master of Engineering in Computer Science (two-semester); Master of Science in Computer Science; Ph.D. in Computer Science; Special Master's in Computer Science
Research Labs: Initiative for Cryptocurrencies & Contracts (IC3) - Blockchain science and cryptocurrency research; Digital Life Initiative (DLI) - Ethics, policy, and quality of life in socio-technical systems; People-Aware Computing Lab - Mobile sensing systems for capturing human context and activities; XR Collaboratory (XRC) - Augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality research
Industry Partners: Google, Grammarly, IBM, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 90% of Cornell Tech CS graduates accept Software Developer roles | Top Employers: Google, Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft | Common Roles: Software Developer, Product Manager, Program Manager, Data Scientist, Research positions
Notable Faculty: Vitaly Shmatikov (Digital privacy, computer security, machine learning security); Yoav Artzi (Natural language processing, machine learning); Noah Snavely (Computer vision, computer graphics); Helen Nissenbaum (Ethics and policy in technology)
Admissions:
Accreditations: AI for Engineers Certificate available at Cornell Tech
#10. Carnegie Mellon University Master's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Carnegie Mellon University as the #10 master's in computer science degree program. Location: Pittsburgh, PA | Type: Private | Tuition: $62,260/year | Graduation Rate: 98% | Score: 88.9
What makes Carnegie Mellon University stand out: CMU Computer Science Department is home to the birthplace of the emoticon smiley :-) created by faculty member Scott Fahlman, and consistently produces graduates with median starting salaries of $135,000 who secure positions at elite firms like Jane Street (13 hires in 2023), with the program's flexible, advisor-guided curriculum allowing students to craft personalized study paths rather than following fixed course sequences.
Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn $135,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on computer science curriculum.
Program Overview: Carnegie Mellon University's Computer Science Department offers a flagship Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program that embodies the institution's pioneering legacy in computational sciences. Established in 1965 with a $5 million grant from the Richard K. Mellon Foundation and led by Alan Perlis as its first department head, CMU CS has consistently ranked among the top computer science programs globally. The MSCS program is uniquely flexible, requiring no fixed curriculum but instead allowing students to construct their own course of study in consultation with advisors. Most students complete the program in three semesters (though those transitioning from other fields may need an additional semester), taking 8-9 courses across Systems, Theoretical Foundations, and Artificial Intelligence requirements. The program is coursework-focused with optional research opportunities, and about one-third of students engage in research during their studies. The department spans six major research areas including Artificial Intelligence, Graphics, Programming Languages, Security, Systems, and Theory, with faculty maintaining individual research summaries available through their comprehensive Faculty Research Guide.
Degree Programs: MS in Computer Science (3 semesters (1.5 years)); Fifth Year Master's Program (1 year); Accelerated MBA Program (5 years total)
Research Labs: Computer Science Department Research Areas - Six major research divisions: Artificial Intelligence, Graphics, Programming Languages, Security, Systems, and Theory
Industry Partners: Jane Street, Amazon/AWS, Microsoft, Google, Meta, Netflix
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: Exceptional based on 2023 outcomes | Top Employers: Jane Street, Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Meta, Netflix
Notable Faculty: Srinivasan Seshan (Department Head, Computer Science); Charlie Garrod (CS Undergraduate Program Director)
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum to maintain
Best Computer Science Programs - Compare Top 5 Master's
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | Atlanta, GA | Public | $10,258 | 76% | 100.0/100 |
| #2 University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | 99.9/100 |
| #3 Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | Private | $64,526 | 100% | 99.4/100 |
| #4 University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 98.7/100 |
| #5 University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | 92.4/100 |
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Top 50 Computer Science Master's Programs 2026
| Rank | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | Atlanta, GA | Public | $10,258 | 76% | — | — | 100 |
| 2 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | — | 99.9 |
| 3 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | Private | $64,526 | 100% | — | — | 99.4 |
| 4 | University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | — | 98.7 |
| 5 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | — | 92.4 |
| 6 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | — | 92.2 |
| 7 | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | — | — | 91.6 |
| 8 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | — | 90.2 |
| 9 | Cornell University | Ithaca, NY | Private | $65,204 | 95% | — | — | 89.6 |
| 10 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | — | — | 88.9 |
| 11 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,620 | 100% | — | — | 88.8 |
| 12 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | — | 88.7 |
| 13 | New York University | New York, NY | Private | $60,438 | — | — | — | 87.3 |
| 14 | University at Buffalo | Buffalo, NY | Public | $7,070 | 95% | — | — | 85.9 |
| 15 | University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Public | $11,834 | 90% | — | — | 84.7 |
| 16 | Stanford University | Stanford, CA | Private | $61,731 | — | — | — | 84.6 |
| 17 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | — | — | — | 84.1 |
| 18 | University of California-Davis | Davis, CA | Public | $11,834 | 91% | — | — | 83.5 |
| 19 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Public | $11,678 | 89% | — | — | 83.2 |
| 20 | Rice University | Houston, TX | Private | $57,210 | 93% | — | — | 82.6 |
| 21 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | Public | $5,742 | 83% | — | — | 82.5 |
| 22 | University of Virginia-Main Campus | Charlottesville, VA | Public | $18,823 | 96% | — | — | 82.1 |
| 23 | Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | Private | $61,310 | 100% | — | — | 82 |
| 24 | Stevens Institute of Technology | Hoboken, NJ | Private | $58,680 | 74% | — | — | 81.7 |
| 25 | Binghamton University | Vestal, NY | Public | $7,070 | 87% | — | — | 81.7 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
How Much Does a Computer Science Masters Degree Cost?
The total cost of a masters's degree in Computer Science ranges from $119,640 at public universities to over $168,200 at elite private institutions. Financial aid, scholarships, and in-state tuition significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs (College Board Trends in College Pricing 2024-25, IPEDS 2023-24).
- Public University (In-State): $11,610/year × 2 years = $23,220 total
- Public University (Out-of-State): $30,780/year × 2 years = $61,560 total
- Private University: $42,051/year × 2 years = $84,102 total
- Online Programs: $8,000/year × 2 years = $16,000 total
With median starting salaries of $133,080, most graduates achieve positive ROI within 3-5 years. Financial aid recipients often pay 30-50% less than sticker price.
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Science Master's Programs Overview
A computer science master's degree represents one of the most valuable investments in today's technology-driven economy. With software engineering roles experiencing 25% growth and data scientist positions growing 36% through 2032, advanced CS education provides the specialized knowledge and research experience that top employers demand.
Our comprehensive analysis of 487 accredited programs reveals significant variation in outcomes, costs, and specializations. Elite programs like MIT and Stanford command premium tuition but deliver exceptional ROI through higher starting salaries, extensive research opportunities, and unparalleled industry connections. Public universities like UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech offer world-class education at substantially lower costs for in-state residents.
Master's programs typically offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, with thesis options better suited for students considering PhD programs or research careers. Professional master's programs focus on industry-relevant skills and often include internship requirements. Online programs have gained significant credibility, with institutions like Georgia Tech's OMSCS delivering the same curriculum as on-campus programs at a fraction of the cost.
Career Advancement: Why Get a Master's?
A master's degree in Computer Science provides a significant career advantage. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals with master's degrees earn 20% more on average than those with bachelor's degrees in the same field. For Computer Science specifically, the salary premium can reach $25,000-$40,000 annually.
When a Master's Degree Pays Off:
- Management track — Senior/Director roles increasingly require or strongly prefer graduate degrees
- Specialization — Deep expertise in AI/ML, security, or data engineering commands premium salaries
- Career switching — Master's programs accept students from non-technical backgrounds
- Research roles — Required for R&D positions at Google, Meta, Microsoft Research, and national labs
- International careers — Many countries require master's for skilled worker visas
The Graduate Management Admission Council reports that 93% of employers plan to maintain or increase hiring of graduate degree holders, with tech roles showing the strongest demand.
Work Experience Requirements
Work experience requirements vary significantly across Computer Science master's programs. While some programs accept students directly from undergraduate studies, many prefer or require professional experience.
Typical Experience Requirements:
- Elite programs (Stanford, MIT, CMU) — Not required but 60-70% of admits have 2+ years experience
- Professional master's programs — Often require 2-5 years; designed for working professionals
- Online programs — Typically more flexible; many accept recent graduates
- Executive programs — Require 5-10+ years; designed for senior professionals
Pro tip: If you lack work experience, strong research experience, publications, or exceptional projects can compensate. Many programs also value open-source contributions, hackathon wins, or significant personal projects demonstrating technical depth.
Thesis vs Non-Thesis Programs
Most Computer Science master's programs offer both thesis and non-thesis (coursework-only) tracks. Your choice significantly impacts your time investment, career options, and learning experience.
Thesis Track (Recommended for PhD/Research Careers):
- Original research project over 1-2 semesters with faculty advisor
- Typically 6 fewer course credits in exchange for thesis work
- Results in publishable research; strengthens PhD applications significantly
- Develops deep expertise in narrow area; valuable for R&D roles
- Average completion: 2-2.5 years
Non-Thesis/Coursework Track (Recommended for Industry):
- Additional courses instead of thesis; broader skill coverage
- Often includes capstone project with industry partner
- Faster completion: typically 1.5-2 years
- Better for career changers seeking breadth over depth
- Some programs offer thesis-equivalent options (comprehensive exam, portfolio)
Specialization Tracks
Master's programs in Computer Science offer specialization tracks that allow you to develop deep expertise in high-demand areas. Choosing the right specialization can increase starting salaries by $10,000-$30,000 compared to generalist degrees.
High-Demand Specializations (2024-2025):
- Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning — Highest demand; median salary $165,000 (Levels.fyi)
- Cybersecurity — 35% job growth projected through 2032 (BLS)
- Cloud Computing/Distributed Systems — Critical for enterprise roles; AWS/Azure/GCP certifications add value
- Data Engineering — Pipeline architecture for big data; median salary $145,000
- Human-Computer Interaction — UX research and design; strong demand at consumer tech companies
When selecting a specialization, consider both current salary premiums and projected growth. The World Economic Forum identifies AI specialists, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts among the fastest-growing roles through 2030.
Part-Time & Evening Options
Part-time and evening Computer Science master's programs allow working professionals to advance their careers without leaving their jobs. According to Graduate Management News, 62% of master's students in technical fields study part-time while employed.
Part-Time Format Options:
- Evening classes — 2-3 nights per week, typically 6-7pm start times; popular in metro areas
- Weekend intensive — Friday evening + Saturday sessions; less frequent campus visits
- Hybrid programs — Online coursework with periodic in-person residencies (1-2 weekends per semester)
- Fully asynchronous online — Maximum flexibility; complete coursework on your schedule
Typical Timeline: Part-time programs take 2.5-4 years versus 1.5-2 years full-time. Many programs allow switching between part-time and full-time status based on life circumstances.
See our best online Computer Science master's programs for flexible options designed for working professionals.
Career Paths
Senior Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Lead complex software development projects, architect systems, and mentor junior developers at major technology companies.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze large datasets, build predictive models, and drive data-driven decision making across industries.
AI/Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1299Design and implement AI systems, develop machine learning models, and create intelligent applications.
Principal/Staff Engineer
SOC 15-1252Technical leadership roles involving system architecture, cross-team coordination, and strategic technical decisions.
Research Scientist
SOC 15-1221Conduct applied research in corporate R&D labs, develop new technologies, and publish in top-tier venues.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Build and maintain infrastructure, implement CI/CD pipelines, and ensure system reliability and scalability.
Cybersecurity Architect
SOC 15-1212Design secure systems, conduct threat modeling, and develop enterprise security strategies for organizations.
Technology Consultant
SOC 15-1199Advise organizations on technology strategy, lead digital transformation initiatives, and solve complex technical challenges.
Top States for Computer Science Master's Programs
Financial Aid and Funding Opportunities
Graduate students have access to funding opportunities unavailable to undergraduates, including research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and industry fellowships. Top CS programs often provide full funding packages that cover tuition and provide living stipends in exchange for research or teaching duties. Understanding these options is crucial for minimizing educational debt while pursuing advanced degrees.
Research assistantships (RAs) are the most common funding mechanism, providing $25,000-$35,000 annually plus tuition remission in exchange for 20 hours weekly of research work. Teaching assistantships (TAs) offer similar compensation for helping with undergraduate courses. Many students combine part-time industry internships with their studies, particularly in programs near major tech hubs.
Industry fellowships from companies like Google, Microsoft, and Meta provide substantial funding ($40,000-$60,000 annually) for promising graduate students, often leading to full-time employment opportunities. FAFSA and federal aid options remain available for graduate students, though subsidized loan limits are lower than undergraduate programs.
Employer Tuition Sponsorship
Many employers offer tuition assistance or full sponsorship for Computer Science master's degrees. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, 56% of companies offer some form of educational assistance, with tech companies among the most generous.
Top Employer Tuition Benefits:
- Google — Up to $12,000/year for approved programs; no service commitment
- Amazon — Career Choice covers 95% of tuition for select programs; plus upskilling programs
- Microsoft — $10,000/year with manager approval; additional funding for certifications
- Apple — Full tuition reimbursement for approved degrees with 2-year service commitment
- Deloitte/Big 4 — Full sponsorship for relevant master's programs; typically require 2 years post-completion
Strategy for Maximizing Benefits:
- Check if your employer has partnerships with specific universities (often reduces approval hurdles)
- Many programs qualify for the federal $5,250 tax-free employer education benefit
- Negotiate sponsorship during job offers—easier than requesting after starting
- Consider part-time programs to maintain employment while studying
Program Selection Framework
- You want maximum career optionality and prestigious alumni network
- Starting salaries and career acceleration justify high tuition costs
- You're interested in cutting-edge research or academic career paths
- You have strong academic credentials and can gain admission
- You want world-class education at significantly lower cost
- You're a state resident eligible for in-state tuition rates
- You prefer larger, more diverse academic communities
- You want excellent ROI without sacrificing program quality
- You're working full-time and need flexible scheduling
- Cost is a primary concern and you want minimal debt
- You're comfortable with self-directed learning and virtual collaboration
- You want to maintain current income while advancing education
- You want to work in specific geographic markets
- You prefer smaller cohorts and closer faculty relationships
- Local industry partnerships align with your career interests
- You want lower living costs during your studies
Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative to a Computer Science Degree
Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers, typically lasting 3-6 months. While they can't replace the depth of a formal degree, they provide practical skills for entry-level positions.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program designed to teach practical programming and tech skills. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus on job-ready skills and real-world projects.
Who Bootcamps Are Best For
- Career changers looking for a fast entry into tech
- Professionals wanting to add coding skills
- Those who prefer hands-on learning over academics
- Budget-conscious learners
What People Love
Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming
- Get job-ready in months instead of 4 years
- Learn modern tech stacks actually used in industry
- Build portfolio projects that demonstrate practical skills
- Many bootcamp grads report landing $70-100K+ starting salaries
- 1-on-1 mentorship helps bridge knowledge gaps quickly
Common Concerns
Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals
- May struggle with algorithm-heavy interviews at FAANG companies
- Lacks depth in systems programming and low-level concepts
- Some hiring managers filter out bootcamp grads automatically
- Requires significant self-study to fill CS fundamentals gaps
- Current market (2025-2026) is competitive for entry-level roles
Explore Bootcamps with Springboard
Springboard offers career-focused bootcamps with 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals. Their programs include a job guarantee—complete all requirements, and if you don't land a qualifying role, you may be eligible for a full tuition refund.
Programs for Computer Science careers:
- Software Engineering Career Track
- Data Science Career Track
- Cybersecurity Career Track
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Software Engineering Career Track
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Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Science Degrees
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing institutional characteristics, enrollment, graduation rates, and tuition data for all accredited institutions
Comprehensive salary and employment data for computer and mathematical occupations across all geographic regions
Faculty research output analysis based on publications in top-tier computer science conferences and journals
Federal data on college costs, graduation rates, post-graduation earnings, and student loan default rates
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.
