Computer Science, MS

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The MS in Computer Science degree provides a broad background in software development and other core disciplines of computer science. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for both positions in industry or to continue their studies through a PhD program.

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 (36 units)

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

Year 1 (18 units)

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

CS 601 - Principles SW Development
CS 603 - Algorithms
Please select one of the following courses from the Development category:
CS 682 - Distributed Software Develop
CS 677 - Big Data
CS 663 - Foundations of ML
Please select one of the following courses from the Systems category:
CS 631 - Systems Foundations
CS 621 - Network Programming
Students take CS 695 Practicum Study in the summer after other first year courses are completed.
CS 695 - Practicum Study

Year 2 (18 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 during their second year.

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

Graduate Electives (14 units)

Students must take 14 units of 600-level graduate Computer Science electives during their second year.

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.

Practicum Option

Students may opt to replace an elective with practical work experience at tech companies and startups in the San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley. This option is open to most international students. Visit Practicum for details.

Directed Research

Students may opt to replace an elective with a directed research course, allowing them to work closely with a professor on a research project. This option is ideal for students who wish to continue on to a Ph.D. program.