Computer Science Bridge Program, MS

The MS Computer Science Bridge program includes a one-year immersion in computer science fundamentals, from object-oriented programming to algorithms and data structures. Students progress as a cohort through these foundational courses and, if they meet the required cumulative GPA of 3.3 for the first academic year, continue to complete the MS in Computer Science. The practicum experience provides real-world software development experience, with networking opportunities and career preparation.

Program Learning Outcomes

Understanding of advanced topics in computer science including software engineering, algorithms, artificial intelligence, programming languages, parallel computing, networking, and low-level systems
Ability to design, implement, and debug large-scale software application
Ability to evaluate and understand advanced research from computer science literature
Effective communication and team participation skills with respect to software development

Major Requirements (60 units)

Year one of the MS in Computer Science Bridge program requires 24 units. The remaining two years require an additional 36 units for completion of the MS in Computer Science degree.

CS Bridge Core Courses (18 units)

CS Bridge Elective (4 units)

Students take one elective selected in consultation with the program director. Electives typically taken for the Bridge program include:

CS Bridge Practicum or Practical Software Development (2 units)

MS in Computer Science Requirements (36 units)

Students in the CS Bridge program complete the MS in Computer Science program requirements in their second and third years.

A minimum grade of a C- is required for all major courses.

Year 1 of MS in Computer Science (16 units)

The program follows a cohort model during the first year, all students take the following core courses at the same time:

Year 2 of MS in Computer Science (20 units)

Students choose from a rotating selection of graduate electives based on their interests and goals. Students develop several large software projects throughout the degree, including a substantial capstone project.

Project Course (4 units)

All students must take CS 690 Master’s Project (4 units). In this course, students work with an industry or faculty sponsor to complete a substantial capstone project from start to finish. This involves completing the specification, design, development, and testing of a significant software system.

CS 690 - Master’s Project

Notes:

SPECIAL TOPICS

A maximum of 4 units may come from special electives, such as CS 694 - Research Seminar in CS , CS 695 - Practicum Study , and CS 698 - Directed Reading and Research . We offer several special topic courses on the latest topics and technologies in computer science. Some recent special topics courses include Machine Learning, Blockchain, and UX Design.