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Master's in Computer Science

A practical understanding of data science through a hands-on approach that includes working on major end-to-end projects and exercises.

Students working on a computer science project
Students working on a computer science project

Types

Master

Location

Online

Credits

31

Cost

$355/credit hour

Expand your career options in the world of computer science.

A degree in computer science will enable you to pursue expanded careers in computer programming, software development, and machine learning that require advanced knowledge in the area of software development. This online degree program provides you with the hands-on skills you need to expand your options, earn a promotion, or pivot your career altogether. Courses taught by faculty who are currently working in the computer science field will give you the chance to demonstrate – and strengthen – your technical capabilities in advanced programming and software development. Whether you prefer software development, computer architecture, compiler theory, computer architecture, or computer networks, this online degree offers solid foundational knowledge to help you achieve your goals.

Anchor: Stats

By the Numbers

$124,200

Average Salary

25%

Industry Growth

#1

Affordable Master's Program

30

Max Class Size
Anchor: Programs & Requirements
Programs & Requirements

Programs & Requirements

Master's in Computer Science

The field of computer science is expansive and rapidly evolving. There are endless careers available, but it takes relevant knowledge, practiced skill, and an understanding of advanced processes in order to achieve the highest level of success within those careers. If you’re looking to expand your opportunities and advance your computer science career, an online master’s degree in computer science from Cumberlands could be exactly what you need.

You’ll study all the most important foundational concepts, such as computer architecture and design, algorithm and data structures, and advanced operating systems – all through classes taught by professors who are active in the field. From advanced programming languages, to advanced artificial intelligence, and more, this 100% online graduate program provides all the relevant information you need to build your computer science career.

Course Requirements

  • MSCS 531      Computer Architecture and Design
  • MSCS 532      Algorithm and Data Structures
  • MSCS 533      Software Engineering and Multiplatform App Development 
  • MSCS 534      Principles of Cyber Security *cross-listed as MSCE 534 Principles of Cyber Security
  • MSCS 535      Secure Software Development 
  • MSCS 630      Advanced Operating Systems 
  • MSCS 631      Advanced Computer Networks 
  • MSCS 632      Advanced Programming Languages 
  • MSCS 633      Advanced Artificial Intelligence 
  • MSCS 634      Advanced Big Data and Data Mining 
  • MSCS 699      Computer Science Capstone (1 credit hour)
  • OR
  • INTR 599        Applied Learning Practicum (1 credit hour)

*All online students who are seeking to earn a degree in Master of Science in Computer Science must take this course in lieu of INTR 599 in addition to meeting all program degree requirements. Executive format students can take the course or INTR 599 as part of their program degree requirements.

**The Computer and Information Sciences Department, the School of Business, and the Leadership graduate (Masters and Doctorate) executive format programs have an applied learning component (internship/practicum) that is an integral (essential) part of the established curriculum. Due to the applied learning component required for the degree program, executive format students must enroll in INTR every term of enrollment.

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Anchor: Mission & Goals

Mission and Goals

The mission of the online master’s degree in computer science is to equip students with the knowledge and skills required for professional careers in computer science.

Identify, understand, and utilize emerging technologies
Develop solutions to complex computer science problems
Examine computer processes and programming methodologies and deploy secure systems
Demonstrate understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities in the field of computer science
Utilize principles and techniques associated with software development in real-world applications
Anchor: Career Outcomes

Cyber Engineering Careers & Outcomes

All stats from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Software Developer: $124,200

Software Developer: $124,200

Software developers design computer applications or programs. Software quality assurance analysts and testers identify problems with applications or programs and report defects.  

Database Architect: $112,120

Database Architect: $112,120

Database administrators and architects create or organize systems to store and secure data.

Information Research Scientist: $136,620

Information Research Scientist: $136,620

Computer and information research scientists design innovative uses for new and existing computing technology.

Computer Network Architect: $126,900

Computer Network Architect: $126,900

Computer network architects design and implement data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.

Computer Systems Analyst: $102,240

Computer Systems Analyst: $102,240

Computer systems analysts study an organization’s current computer systems and design ways to improve efficiency.

Web Developer: $80,730

Web Developer: $80,730

Web developers create and maintain websites. Digital designers develop, create, and test website or interface layout, functions, and navigation for usability.

Anchor: FAQs

Common Questions

As technology becomes further integrated into our daily lives – and as it continues evolving – there will be a continuous need for computer science experts for the foreseeable future. Everything from online shopping to Big Data to robotics has its foundation in this field. By pursuing a master’s degree in computer science, you will be staying ahead of the curve of a rapidly changing field and helping ensure that you remain an asset to virtually any business.

Though many people use the terms interchangeably, there are differences between these two fields. In short, computer science typically has more to do with designing and building computer programs, applications, and software languages, whereas information technology focuses more on troubleshooting computers and their networks, systems, and databases. They are both “umbrella terms,” but it may benefit you to dig deeper into the differences as you research careers that would best fit your skills and interests.

Yes, this online computer science program is offered completely online. Each course lasts eight weeks, called a bi-term. There are two bi-terms per semester, and three semesters per year (fall, spring, and summer). Many classes are asynchronous, meaning there is no set login time; you can work on schoolwork whenever you find time. Cumberlands provides free rental textbooks to online students as part of its One Price Promise. 

All programs at University of the Cumberlands are offered at some of the lowest rates in the nation – and we even include free textbooks through our One Price Promise! For more information on how affordable this program would be for you, visit our Financial Aid & Tuition page.

Anchor: Faculty

Faculty Experts

Learn about the professors you'll be learning from.

Dr. Rajan Thapaliya

Dr. Rajan Thapaliya

Adjunct Professor
School of Computer Information Sciences

Dr. Rajan Thapaliya

Contact Information

347.335.5020
rajan.thapaliya [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
James T. Corcoran

James T. Corcoran

Adjunct Professor
School of Computer Information Sciences

James T. Corcoran

Contact Information

james.t.corcoran [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
Dr. Paul Czarapata

Dr. Paul Czarapata

Adjunct Professor
School of Computer Information Sciences

Dr. Paul Czarapata

Contact Information

paul.czarapata [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
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