COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master’s program in Computer Science is designed to provide students with advanced technical knowledge, practical software development skills, and specialized expertise in modern computing systems and technologies. The curriculum includes a strong foundation of core courses, distribution requirements, electives, programming language training, and a major project or thesis component. Students may be required to complete up to 18 credits of waivable core courses depending on their previous academic background. These core courses include Introduction to Programming in C, Intermediate Programming using C/C++, Data Structures, Algorithm Design and Analysis, Computer Networks and Data Communication, and Operating Systems, all of which build a solid understanding of software development, algorithms, networking, and system-level computing. In addition, students must complete 9 credits of non-waivable distribution courses by selecting one course each from Software Design Methodology, Theory and Analysis, and Computer Systems categories. These courses allow students to specialize in areas such as object-oriented design, artificial intelligence, cryptography, advanced databases, distributed systems, computer security, web-database development, and enterprise network design. Students also complete 21 credits of elective courses, offering flexibility to pursue advanced topics in computer science and, in some cases, electrical engineering. The program includes a programming language requirement that ensures students demonstrate proficiency in a programming language other than C through courses such as Java, Python, VB.Net, iOS Development, or web application programming. Another major feature of the program is the project requirement, which emphasizes independent problem solving, software development, and research skills. Students may fulfill this requirement by completing an approved project-based course, a Master’s Project under faculty supervision, or a formal thesis consisting of Thesis I and Thesis II. Students pursuing the project or thesis options must work closely with faculty advisors to develop and obtain approval for their proposals. Overall, the program prepares graduates for careers in software engineering, systems analysis, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, database management, networking, and advanced computing research.