Master’s in Computer Science Bridge Program
Master’s in Computer Science Bridge Program
journey today.
Computer science can be an ideal career path for those with a passion for technology and computers, and who enjoy thinking critically, analytically and creatively to solve problems. To help individuals determine whether a career in computer science is right for them, they may ask questions such as, Am I interested in having a positive contribution to society by developing knowledge in the future of artificial intelligence? or, Do I find it fascinating how computer programs can securely build the tools for the future generation? If so, completing an online master’s in computer science bridge program can be a step to take to gain entry into advanced-level computer science studies.
Grand Canyon University’s Bridge (Master of Science in Computer Science) program is designed to be an accelerated pathway into GCU’s Master of Science in Computer Science degree. While it is required to have a bachelor’s degree for admission, you can complete this master’s in computer science with an unrelated bachelor's by gaining the basic required knowledge in computer science.
Offered by the College of Engineering and Technology, this online bridge program introduces you to computer science and supports you while you build the foundational skills necessary to apply for entry into the graduate program. Students in the CS bridge program can move on to deepen their understanding of the basic knowledge and understanding required to be successful in the Master of Science in Computer Science.
An online MS computer bridge program can prepare you to apply for entry into master’s-level computer science programs. This program is mainly for interested candidates who do not have a bachelor's degree in the technology field related to computer science.
It is possible that some of the related courses in your bachelor's degree can replace one or many of the required courses in the bridge program. To learn more about this option, fill out the form on this page to get in contact with a university counselor.
While you’re in the online CS bridge program, you will work to develop competence in the following areas:
Science and engineering calculus
Linear algebra
Computer programming
Data structure and algorithms
Concepts of operations systems
Applying discrete mathematics
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking to complete the online master’s in computer science bridge program, read through our frequently asked questions to learn more about this option to further your technology and computer science education.
The online master’s in computer science bridge requires seven, four-credit courses, for a total of 28 credits for completion. The majority of the online classes are each seven weeks in length.
Completing an MS CS bridge can prepare you for entry into the master’s-level computer science program if you have an unrelated bachelor’s degree. Careers in computer science with a master’s degree may be worth your educational investment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook estimates job growth for computer and information technology occupations to increase by about 15% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than average, accounting for an estimated increase of 682,800 jobs in the field.1 Additionally, computer and information technology occupations had an annual median wage of $97,430 in May 2021, according to the BLS.2
It should also be noted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is completely transforming society and will affect the everyday life of humans. It will change the way all industries (medical, software development, etc.) will work, which could also present different opportunities for master’s-level computer science graduates.
Math is a necessary part of computer science. You will take several math-related courses in subjects such as algebra and calculus. Bridging into master’s-level computer science courses gives you the opportunity to sharpen and further develop your math skills. If math is not your strong suit, but you are passionate about pursuing advanced-level computer science courses, look to the academic and tutoring support your university offers for assistance and to prepare yourself for your studies.
Start Your Journey Today
Fill out the form on this page to learn more about this computer science bridge pathway at GCU.
- COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2022, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Technology Occupations, retrieved on Aug. 16, 2023.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Computer and Information Technology Occupations, as of May 2021, retrieved on Aug. 16, 2023. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may also impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the BLS. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers from across the country with varying levels of education and experience and does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates in computer and information technology occupations. It does not reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country. It also does not reflect a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. You may also wish to compare median salaries if you are considering more than one career path. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, and accept employment from, determines salary not only based on education, but also individual characteristics and skills and fit to that organization (among other categories) against a pool of candidates.