COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Computer Science offers both thesis and non-thesis options to accommodate diverse student goals and career aspirations. The thesis option requires a total of 30 credit hours, including the required courses CPSC 601 Research Methodology, CPSC 698 Master’s Research, and CPSC 699 Master’s Thesis, emphasizing the development of original research. Students also select 12 credits of approved 600-level electives and nine credits of approved 500- or 600-level electives, ensuring a balance of advanced coursework and specialized study. The thesis must be of publishable quality and is defended publicly before a committee of three full-time graduate faculty, including at least two from the Computer Science department, providing students with experience in academic presentation and critical evaluation. The non-thesis option also totals 30 credit hours, including the required CPSC 601 Research Methodology course, 15 credits of approved 600-level electives, and 12 credits of approved 500- or 600-level electives, emphasizing advanced coursework and practical application rather than research. Both options are structured to provide a strong foundation in computer science principles, enhance analytical and technical skills, and prepare students for professional careers in industry or government, as well as for further study at the doctoral level, equipping graduates to address complex computational problems and contribute meaningfully to the field.