Online Master’s in Computer Science
Online Master’s in Computer Science
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This computer science master’s degree online can help you to enhance your academic credentials with a modality that provides flexibility and allows you to meet your academic and professional needs. This provides the benefit of allowing you to stay current with all assignments while enjoying the potential for greater work/life balance.
To be eligible for consideration, you are required to hold an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering or electrical engineering.1 In the event that you do not have a degree in one of these fields, you may need to complete a computer science bridge program prior to enrollment.
Additionally, this degree program requires a firm understanding of mathematical concepts and skills. It incorporates computer science coursework in areas such as advanced statistics, programming languages and algorithm analysis. For more information about prerequisites and the necessary skills, consult with your university counselor to ensure you have the foundational skills required for the program.
1 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). How To Become a Computer and Information Research Scientist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Sept. 27, 2024.
2 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective Aug. 29, 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Research Scientists, retrieved on Oct. 10, 2024.
3 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Computer and Information Research Scientists as of May 2023, retrieved on Sept. 27, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 and 2023 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 as computer and information research scientists. 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.
4 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). Computer and Information Research Scientists: Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Oct. 10, 2024.
5 Indeed Editorial Team. (2024, April 18). 19 Master of Computer Science Jobs to Consider. Indeed. Retrieved Sept. 27, 2024.
This degree program introduces the core principles of computer science, focusing on essential topics such as abstraction, complexity and evolutionary change. Understanding these foundational concepts can provide a framework for developing critical skills, including resource sharing, security and concurrency. Throughout the program, you will acquire a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical abilities that are vital in this rapidly evolving field.
Our Master of Science in Computer Science online degree culminates in a capstone project or thesis. You will have the option of choosing between designing and implementing a software application or conducting research and writing a research thesis.
Core skills and competencies taught in this master’s in CS degree include:
Online: $600 per credit [More Info]
Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
As an institutionally accredited university, GCU is proud to prioritize the quality of our education. The Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968. The College of Engineering and Technology shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
Median annual wage for computer and information research scientists in May 20233
Upon completing this degree program, you will have been taught the skills to design, implement and improve theoretical and functional systems based on quantitative and qualitative assessments of their functionality, usability and performance.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job growth for computer and information research scientists is on track to grow much faster than average by an estimated 26% from 2023 to 2033, accounting for an estimated increase of 9,400 jobs in the field.2
The Master of Science in Computer Science (CS) degree at Grand Canyon University is designed for professionals in a variety of STEM and business disciplines with a strong aptitude for mathematical reasoning, abstract thinking and computer programming. Offered by the College of Engineering and Technology, this online computer science master’s degree promotes both STEM and general business competencies, equipping graduates with the knowledge needed to work in the field of computer science.
Through a combination of instructional lectures and coursework, as well as hands-on experiential learning, you will be taught advanced skills in computer science that may be immediately applicable across a variety of industries and work settings.
By exploring these frequently asked questions, you may make an informed decision about whether an online computer science master’s degree is the right choice for you.
A computer science master’s degree can be worth it for anyone looking to position themselves to potentially advance their career in computer science. A master’s degree may provide a foundation from which to pursue career opportunities in areas such as software engineering, database administration, machine learning, information technology or any career with a computer science focus.5
According to the BLS, computer and information research scientists had a median annual wage of $145,080 in May 2023.3 Of course, individual salary expectations can vary based on a wide range of factors, such as job role, employer, years of experience and industry certifications.
With a computer science master’s degree online, you can delve into a world where innovation meets technology. You’ll engage in designing complex systems, analyzing vast data sets and developing modern solutions to practical problems. Your work may involve collaborating with teams to create software that enhances user experiences, ensuring systems are secure or exploring the latest advancements in artificial intelligence. Ultimately, you can play a vital role in shaping the future of technology across various sectors in roles such as a computer and information systems manager, a computer and information research scientist or a computer programmer.
Pursuing a master’s in computer science at GCU can offer several advantages. You’ll engage with relevant coursework tailored to various industries and receive guidance from experienced instructors who are knowledgeable in their fields. The comprehensive curriculum covers a range of competencies, from algorithm design to machine learning. GCU also fosters an innovative mindset to help address contemporary STEM challenges, all within a supportive Christian learning environment that incorporates a Christ-centered perspective.
With strong job growth and varied opportunities, this computer science master’s degree online can open the door to a range of roles and settings.
With a foundation of competencies in computer science and information research, graduates may go on to pursue roles such as:
A master's degree in computer science can help prepare graduates for diverse roles across multiple industries. Graduates will have been taught the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue roles in:4
This degree program seeks to instill a breadth and depth of competencies that effectively prepare you to make a positive impact on your field. Through a combination of theoretical and practical coursework, you will have the opportunity to learn these core areas and tackle practical challenges in the field of computer science.
Core concepts and principles include:
Mathematics
Apply calculus and linear algebra methods to solve computing problems, use probability and statistics for decision making and create ideas based on mathematical concepts.
Algorithms and Complexity
Design algorithms, describe the architecture of parallel/distributed systems and calculate the computational complexity of algorithms that may solve a problem.
Computing Systems
Demonstrate an understanding and evaluation of computing systems design alternatives and build software systems.
Research and Applications
Formulate research questions, design experiments, analyze results and communicate findings of computational problems.
Artificial Intelligence
Automate data for repetitive learning/discovery, develop applications adaptable through progressive learning algorithms and analyze data to uncover trends.
Professionalism, Ethics and Sustainability
Determine if a new data-driven business process ethically uses customer data, demonstrate ethical judgment and examine how a Christian worldview applies.
Cultivate a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical applications of computer science.
