Master Computer Science

The Master of Science in Computer Science prepares students to manage all aspects of a software development project, from analysis and design to implementation, testing, maintenance, and management of quality, budgets, deliverables, and deadlines. Students study hardware and software components of computer systems, including data communication and databases; hardware organization and operating systems; software analysis and design methodologies; and software implementation and testing.

The degree is a 33-credit-hour program. Students may choose a thesis option (6 credit hours) or a project option (3 credit hours). The thesis option includes 27 credit hours of coursework plus 6 credit hours of thesis direction, while the non-thesis route includes 30 credit hours of coursework plus 3 credit hours of a capstone project. Instruction is in-person and online.

Modules

• Advanced Computer Networks
• Advanced Software Engineering
• Hardware and Operating Systems
• Systems Analysis and Design

To be considered for admission to the Master of Science in Computer Science program, applicants should:

• Have taken certain programming and mathematics classes
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in a bachelor’s degree
• Submit a written statement of purpose indicating interest and objective
• Submit two letters of recommendation
• Submit official transcripts of all college-level work
• Submit résumé

Applicants should have taken programming classes, including data structures and object-oriented programming. GRE scores are not required for admission.

International students must submit the TOEFL scores and show a minimum of 80 on the Internet-based test or 213 on the computer-based test or 550 on the paper-based test. TOEFL score 80-82 is acceptable with the provision that the student takes EN6301 during the first semester at St. Mary’s University.

As an alternative to the TOEFL, the international student can take the IELTS test and show a minimum score of 6.5 or better. A score of 6.0 is acceptable with the provision that the student takes EN6301 during the first semester at St. Mary’s University. No student will be admitted with a score lower than 6.0 on the IELTS test.

The third option for an international student is a Duolingo English test score of 115 or above.

• Software development engineer
• Computer programmer
• Web developer