Master of Science in Applied Computer Science
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Applied Computer Science is an online program designed for students looking to enter the field of computing coming from non-mathematical or non-engineering disciplines and who want a strong foundation in computer science in order to achieve their career goals. The program focuses on practical hands-on computational skills in demand such as: databases, networks, web development, security, systems administration and software development. Students complete their program with a portfolio project that showcases skills developed during the course of study.
Students can expect a rigorous curriculum culminating in a required capstone course at the end of the program (CSCI-6116: Advanced Application Development) where students showcase the skills they have developed during the program. Aside from the required course, the program offers students to select 9 elective courses that build the foundations of computer science while offering course options that address modern technological issues in the following areas:
- Database Management Systems
- Introduction to Computer Systems and Systems Programming
- Introduction to Web Development
- Computer Networks
- Design of Human Computer Interfaces
- Design of Interactive Multimedia
- Software for Handheld Devices
- Software Engineering
How is the Master of Science in Applied Computer Science different from the Master of Science in Computer Science program?
The regular Master of Science in Computer Science (MS-CS) is an on-campus program that requires mathematical prerequisites for admission. The MS-CS program has more theoretical content that requires students to have a mathematical background. For example, modern artificial intelligence requires students to have a sophisticated background in mathematics whereas the Applied Computer Science program is focused on hands-on, practical software development skills for the workplace.
Program Requirements
- Credit hours: 30
- Required Capstone Course: CSCI-6116: Advanced Application Development must be taken at the end of the program
- Duration: Two years (full-time) or three years (part-time)
Admissions Requirements
- Applicants must have a 4-year bachelor's degree in any field with a minimum of 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent. An educational background in computer science is not required in order for a student to apply to this program.
- Successful submission of online application form, exam scores, and other documents as outlined in the admissions requirements.
- Note: the GRE exam is not required for this program.
- Participants of the GW Gateway to CS graduate certificate program must have received a GPA of a 3.0 in three out of the four Gateway program courses (CSCI 6001, CSCI 6002 & CICS 6003) to receive admission to the MS program.
Please note: Due to its online format, this program will not offer I-20 forms for F-1 visa-seeking students. Non-visa-seeking international students in the US, however, are eligible to apply to this program but must meet English language test score minimums listed under English Language Test Exam Requirements if they did not complete a bachelor’s degree from a US institution.
Deadline to Apply:
The deadline to apply for fall admission is July 1.
Please contact [email protected] for any questions about the admissions requirements for the MS in Applied Computer Science program.
Professional Outcomes
Get further insights into the career options and outcomes for students and alumni of SEAS.