COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Computer Science requires a total of 33 credit hours and is designed to provide advanced knowledge in computing theory, systems, and applications while allowing students to specialize through electives and either a thesis or non-thesis pathway. A minimum of 18 credit hours must be completed at the 600 level, ensuring graduate-level academic rigor throughout the program. As part of the core requirement, students must select one advanced theory course: either Advanced Computer Algorithms (CSC 638), which focuses on algorithm design, optimization techniques, and computational efficiency, or Theory of Computation (CSC 616), which emphasizes formal languages, automata theory, and the theoretical limits of computing. After completing the core requirement, students choose between two pathways based on their academic and career goals. In the Thesis Option, students complete 24 credit hours of approved CSC or ITC electives, with a maximum of 6 hours of Directed Study (CSC 695), and complete 6 credit hours of Thesis work (CSC 698), which involves independent research under faculty supervision and contributes to scholarly knowledge in computer science. In the Non-Thesis (Project) Option, students complete 27 credit hours of electives, with a maximum of 3 hours of Directed Study (CSC 695), and finish with a 3-credit hour Directed Project (CSC 699), which focuses on applied problem-solving and practical implementation of computing solutions. Across both pathways, electives allow students to specialize in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, databases, networking, and data science, depending on advisor approval and course availability. Overall, the program is structured to balance theoretical foundations, advanced technical skills, and research or applied project experience, preparing graduates for careers in the computing industry, research roles, or further doctoral study while ensuring strong competence in modern computational methods and problem-solving approaches.