COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science at Wichita State University is a flexible 30-credit-hour graduate program designed to prepare students for advanced careers in software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, research, and technology leadership. Students must select one of three graduation pathways: Thesis, Project, or Coursework-Only, depending on their career goals and interests. All study plans require approval from a faculty advisor or graduate coordinator to ensure courses align with degree requirements. The Thesis Option is ideal for students interested in research or pursuing a PhD, requiring completion of CS 721 Advanced Algorithms and Analysis, 6 credit hours of thesis research (CS 892), and 21 credit hours of graduate coursework. Students conduct original research, identify a significant research problem, develop solutions, and defend their findings before a faculty committee. The Project Option focuses on practical problem-solving and industry-oriented applications. Students complete CS 721, 3 credit hours of project work (CS 891), and 24 credit hours of graduate coursework while developing and implementing a solution to a real-world computing problem, culminating in a written report and presentation. The Coursework-Only Option is designed for students seeking advanced technical knowledge without a research or project requirement. It includes CS 721 and 27 credit hours of approved graduate coursework, including applied learning experiences and advanced 800-level courses. Across all options, students may take a limited number of courses below the 700 level or outside the Computer Science and Electrical and Computer Engineering departments with approval. The curriculum emphasizes advanced algorithms, software systems, emerging technologies, analytical thinking, and applied learning experiences that connect classroom knowledge with professional practice. Through access to modern research facilities, faculty mentorship, and industry partnerships, students gain valuable hands-on experience and technical expertise. Graduates are prepared for careers as software engineers, machine learning engineers, artificial intelligence specialists, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, systems architects, cloud computing professionals, research scientists, and technology consultants, while also being well positioned for doctoral studies and research-focused careers in academia, government, and industry.