Methodology

There’s no question that there are a plethora of schools throughout the country with computer science departments. Fortune attempted to contact more than 100 schools with graduate programs in computer science. Only eight fully online programs responded to our inquiries and completed our questionnaire. Six factors were used to rank the programs, including:

• Tuition per credit, out-of-state U.S. residents: 20%
• Acceptance rate, academic year 2023-2024: 15%
• Yield, 2023-2024: 15%
• Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees: 10%
• Graduation rate, 2021-24: 20%
• One-year retention rate, 2023-24: 20%

Computer science career paths

What is a master’s in computer science, and what will you learn in an online program?

A master’s in computer science is a program that emphasizes an advanced understanding of computer-related theories and applications. Cohort sizes and ages vary by program, but online degrees generally can facilitate more students and often include many working professionals. As a result, comp sci master’s programs consist of individuals looking for an upgrade in their career—either with their current company or another. Career pivoters could also be part of master’s in computer science programs, but they likely would have gained at least some industry and education experience beforehand and will likely need to contact the university to see if they would qualify. Learning via a tech bootcamp is an example. A master’s in computer science is also the gateway toward further study for those interested in getting a PhD in the subject. An online program will also indirectly strengthen one’s real-world communication skills. Many jobs in computer science today are either fully remote or hybrid, meaning working away from the office is part of reality. As a result, being able to thoughtfully and effectively communicate is paramount.

Computer science curriculum and skills taught

Computer science programs are tasked with trying to teach subjects that are growing by the day. As a result, the information you learn in the first half of your master’s program may be old news by graduation. Learning to be a critical thinker, problem solver, and someone who takes initiative are lifelong skills that may play a more significant role in a career. However, learning foundations remain important. A typical master’s in computer science study should certainly expect to enhance their knowledge of advanced programming languages, data structures, and AI systems. At Marshall University—home to the best online master’s in computer science—the study structure consists of about three classes over three semesters, with a final semester dedicated to finishing a thesis or taking another elective:

Semester 1:

• Advanced Database Systems
• Advanced Programming
• Elective

Semester 2: 

• Data Mining
• Advanced Web Technology
• Elective

Semester 3: 

• Applied Algorithms
• Elective or Thesis
• Elective

Semester 4:

• Elective or Thesis

Do not also forget the power of networking. Those you meet in the computer science classroom will be working at a variety of companies for several years, so keep those connections as they could be valuable in the future.

Computer science specializations and concentrations

Computer science has many different pathways for students to specialize and concentrate. Most are tech-related, but some others allow for interdisciplinary learning. Some common computer science concentrations/specializations include:

• Artificial intelligence
• Biomedical informatics
• Computer graphics/data visualization
• Computational biology
• Computing systems
• Cybersecurity/information security/computer security
• Data science/data analytics
• Game development
• High-performance computing
• Human-computer interaction
• Interactive intelligence
• Machine learning
• Modeling and simulations
• Robotics
• Scientific computing
• Social computing
• Software theory
• Visual analytics
• Visual computing
• Wireless/embedded systems

Admissions information for online master’s in computer science

While admissions requirements can vary by school, graduate degree programs require the following of aspiring computer science scientists:

• Bachelor's degree: A bachelor's degree is generally required, and applicants must provide an official transcript from a college or university to demonstrate successful completion. The inclusion of one’s undergraduate GPA is part of this step.
• Educational and work experience: If applicants do not have an undergraduate degree in a tech-related field, they may need to demonstrate sufficient work and educational experience in fundamental concepts on their resume. Bootcamps or other tech certification programs can be one way to obtain foundational skills.
• Personal statement or essay: Applicants can use their personal statement or essay to highlight their unique characteristics and goals for the program.
• Letters of recommendation: Applicants should provide letters of recommendation from supervisors, professors, or program alumni. Standardized tests: While most computer science programs do not require applicants to submit GRE scores, taking the test can boost applications, especially if one’s undergraduate GPA is not strong.
• Other admissions items: Some tech master's degree programs may require applicants to complete a proficiency exam to gauge skills like coding.

GMAT, GRE & GPA requirements for online master’s in computer science

Online master’s in computer science programs do not tend to require applicants to submit standardized test scores like the GRE or GMAT. Supplying scores, though, can certainly boost one’s application, and some schools will even accept the GMAT—a test typically designed for business school entry. Many programs do have requirements when it comes to GPA, but they vary by school. Generally, those with a GPA higher than 2.5 or 3.0 will fare well.

Which factors drive acceptance?

Because test scores are often not part of the admissions process, one’s resume, application essay, personal essay, and/or letters of recommendation are very important and are items that drive acceptance. Applications should have a plan of why they want and/or need a master’s in computer science and how they will contribute to the classroom environment.

The online master’s in computer science experience: What is it like to study online?

Computer science is one field that thrives in an online learning environment. One of the reasons is that if you visit an in-person computer science classroom, every student will be on their laptop anyway. Therefore, if you thrive learning in the comfort of your own home—with the distraction of others, an online master’s can be beneficial. Plus, students can continue working and take care of family and children more easily.

How to choose the best online master’s degree program in computer science for you: Factors to consider beyond rankings

Start times, schedule, and program length

Before anything else is considered, be realistic about your life. When is the earliest you could realistically start an online master’s in computer science? Can you manage a full- or part-time course load? Do you prefer synchronous or asynchronous learning? Does the program have any mandatory on-site components (e.g. orientation or graduation)? Having general answers to these questions will help square away the right and wrong programs.

Project-based learning

Landing a job in computer science is all about having ways to prove your skills. So, programs that emphasize hands-on, project-based learning are advantageous. Ideally, the projects you complete in class can become part of your portfolio and can be used as talking points during a job interview.

Concentrations

Many schools offer many concentrations within their computer science graduate degrees, but if you have any area of focus in mind, it can be easy to narrow down programs with that criteria in mind. For example, if you know video game development is your interest, only look at schools that have those niche specializations carved out. At a minimum, make sure some electives are available. Moreover, if available, check out the profiles of the faculty. The more professors with substantial industry experience, the better.

Cost

One can argue that many master’s in computer science programs teach largely the same topics—no matter the university, and as some will argue, one’s graduate-level alma mater will not matter 10 years down the line. Cost should therefore play a major factor in one’s decision because if you need to take out loans, the debt will stay with you for many years. Plus, with online programs, there are fewer on-campus resources available to you, so, reasons to excuse high tuition are less. At the same time, don’t be outright persuaded by the cheapest programs. At many schools, you are paying to work with high-earning experienced professors as well as program support resources.

Network and access to alumni

In a competitive field like computer science, who you know matters. Seeking out ways to network and connect is especially important when enrolled in an online program since natural relationships will not form as easily. So, picking a program based on your career goals can be important. For example, if you know you want to work at a big tech firm whose headquarters is in Silicon Valley, then picking a master’s program based on the east coast may not be as beneficial as others. However, connections can be built anywhere—as long as you seek them out.

Years of work experience

Many master’s in computer science students are not straight out of college. They have typically spent anywhere from 4–8 years working in a professional setting and are looking to enhance their skills even further. However, no single student is the same and it all depends on your circumstances and career goals.

Careers for master’s in computer science graduates

Tech is notorious for being a field where experienced candidates can find jobs easily, thanks to continued growth. The number of projected new software developers is the second highest of any occupation—with 303,700 new jobs over the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, tech is also a very competitive field that occasionally experiences large layoffs, so finding ways to stick out is paramount to any career. The exact job title one may achieve after graduating from a master’s in computer science program can vary, but some of the most common include:

• Computer system architect
• Software engineer/developer
• System analyst
• Database administrator
• Data/computer scientist
• Information security analyst
• IT specialist

Places of employment for computer science graduates also vary tremendously since nearly every company has tech experts. But, as one may expect, large tech companies tend to hire the most graduates, such as Amazon, Google, Intel, and Microsoft.

Is computer science just coding?

No, computer science isn’t just coding, though that is a necessary skill for people hoping to build a career within the industry. Because companies are looking to become more data-driven in business strategy, graduates of computer science programs are expected to provide the skills to make that possible. Rather than looking at computer science as strictly coding, think of it as problem-solving—and then decide how you plan to use that skill.

Which master’s degree program is best in computer science?

Marshall University is No. 1 on Fortune’s list, with an acceptance rate of 39%. Rounding out the top five spots from second to fifth are Nova Southeastern University, Rice University, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and the University of Tennessee.

How long is a master's degree in computer science?

On average, it takes about two years of full-time study to complete a master’s degree in computer science. However, programs may have different pathways and degree requirements, so it does depend on where you choose to earn your degree. There are also options for part-time study, but those programs typically have a separate set of requirements and are often completed anywhere from three to five years. Finally, students increasingly want to gain some hands-on experience in a master’s degree program, which could add additional time to the course of study.

Does a master’s in computer science make more money?

Professionals with graduate degrees in computer science earn around $100,000 annually, according to PayScale. Annual salaries for graduates of master’s degree programs can range from $80,000 to $200,000, and that’s just in base pay.