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Master of Science in Computer Science
Our program goes beyond conventional education. Our students not only receive a strong foundation in computer science but also benefit from the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research and collaborate across disciplines. The program's interdisciplinary approach sets it apart from traditional, structured computer science programs, offering flexibility and innovation.
Graduates emerge not just as proficient computer scientists but as problem solvers ready to address real-world challenges. Shape your future with a program that combines expertise, flexibility, and the chance to make a tangible impact in the world of computing.
Degree Requirements
Tailored for aspiring professionals, the M.S. degree program is meticulously crafted to deliver pertinent graduate-level education, preparing students for successful careers as computer scientists or advanced doctoral-level studies. Students must decide between a thesis or non-thesis path for their Master of Science in Computer Science program:
- Thesis Option: Students are required to enroll in CS 599, Thesis, for two semesters, completing a total of six credit hours in 3-credit hour increments, alongside 24 credit hours of lecture courses. They may also choose to take CS 598, which is an industry-based course, counting as three of the thesis credit hours upon faculty approval.
- Non-Thesis Option: Students need to complete 27 credit hours of lecture courses and also enroll in CS 598, Graduate Project, which is supervised by a faculty member, to fulfill their degree requirements.
Accelerated Masters
The Accelerated BS-MS Degree program is designed for ambitious undergraduate students aiming to fast-track their education by earning both a Bachelor and a Master of Science degree in Computer Science within five years. Starting in their junior year, students will collaborate with a faculty advisor to tailor a study plan that aligns with their personal interests and career objectives. To fulfill the accelerated program's requirements, students must complete 141 credit hours, including nine credit hours applicable to both degrees.
Admission Requirements
The Graduate School mandates that applicants possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or are on track to complete their undergraduate degree before classes start for the term they are applying for. Applicants need a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.70 on a 4.00 scale for the last 60 hours of coursework. Master's program applicants should be within 32 semester hours of completing their bachelor's degree at the time of application.
The evaluation of applicants for admission is based primarily on the student's academic record with particular attention being given to past performance in relevant undergraduate coursework. In most cases, it would be expected that the applicant has completed coursework required prior to admission.
Relevant Undergraduate Coursework
Any applicant to the Computer Science Program master's degree should meet the prerequisites (or their equivalents as determined by the Illinois Articulation Initiative or the CS Graduate Program Committee) as listed below:
Required
- CS 202 - Introduction to Computer Science
- CS 215 - Discrete Mathematics
- CS 220 - Programming with Data Structures
- CS 306 - Linux/UNIX Programming
- CS 311 - The Theory and Implementation of Programming Languages
- CS 320 - Computer Organization and Architecture
- CS 330 - Introduction to the Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- MATH 150 - Calculus I
Recommended
- MATH 250 - Calculus II
- GRE (no minimum set)
Teaching and Research Assistantships
Many qualified graduate students in Computer Science receive financial support in the form of teaching or research assistantships. Appointments are normally made on a half-time basis, committing the student to 20 hours of work per week. The current stipend associated with such assistantships is stated on the graduate school website various appointment types. In addition, tuition fees are waived. Ordinarily, a student whose academic progress and performance of duties have been satisfactory is eligible for reappointment. Students who hold an assistantship normally take 9 credit hours per semester
Fellowships
In addition to assistantships, a limited number of graduate fellowships are available to academically superior students. Graduate fellowships provide a stipend, along with a tuition waiver. No duties are required of graduate students holding fellowships.
Beyond Assistantships and Fellowships
While our assistantships and fellowships are highly sought after, there are more avenues to explore to ease your financial burdon. We regularly provide the latest information about available scholarships, grants, and on-campus employment opportunities.
We're proud to offer financial assistance that acknowledges and supports the diversity of our student body. Our programs are designed to be accessible to students from various backgrounds and circumstances, reflecting our commitment to inclusive excellence in education.
Contact Information
Khaled Ahmed
Graduate Program Director
Engineering A307C
1230 Lincoln Dr.
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-6048
kahmed@cs.siu.edu
Pamela Wilkins
Graduate Progam Assistant
Engineering A319
1230 Lincoln Drive
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-6042
gradinfo@cs.siu.edu