Master of Science in Computer and Information Science

The Master of Science in Computer and Information Science at Alcorn State University is designed for students who completed an undergraduate degree in Computer Science and for students with degrees in related fields who want to develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Learning outcomes include programming skills in high-level languages, the ability to build software systems, and the ability to conduct independent research and write technical reports and papers for publications.

The curriculum requires 33 credit hours of coursework, with 15 hours of required core credits and 18 hours of required electives, with an option of a thesis, non-thesis, or internship track for degree completion. The thesis track requires an oral defense for progression to degree completion. Graduation expectations include completing a minimum of 27 credit hours of graduate instruction in residence at Alcorn State University.

Modules

• CS 521 Theory of Computation
• CS 523 Programming Languages
• CS 525 Operating Systems
• CS 527 Design and Analysis of Algorithms
• CS 590 Thesis
• CS 529 Information Retrieval System I
• CS 531 Artificial Intelligence
• CS 533 Database Management Systems
• CS 535 Computer Architecture
• CS 537 Computer Graphics
• CS 539 Compiler Construction
• CS 541 Software Engineering

• Students applying for entrance are required to submit an application for admission. Apply Online (www.alcorn.edu/academics/graduate-studies).
• Two letters of recommendation.
• Official transcript from an accredited school. If a student has attended more than one school, transcripts must be submitted from all schools attended. At least one transcript must document that the student has a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0. Some departments have additional requirements that students must meet for admission.
• Immunization Record.
• Decisions are made only after receipt of all credentials by the department’s admission committee, using an admission formula to accept students.
• The entire application packet, including all supporting materials, must be submitted to the Graduate School. Official transcripts from the sending school, and Credential Evaluations (International students) from an approved Credential Evaluation Service.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test is the official standardized test required for admission. WAIVED