Computer Science Graduate Program Description

The mission of the Masters of Science degree is to:

  • Provide advanced training to experienced Information Technology professionals
  • Advance knowledge of BS graduates of computer science programs
  • Expand opportunity for career change for individuals with undergraduate preparation in fields other than computing

The degree provides classroom and laboratory experiences which emphasize the theory, application, and contemporary research in the computing sciences. The MS program is designed to accept applicants from a broad range of undergraduate preparation and to provide them with knowledge and skills encompassing the areas of computer science methodologies and computer software design and development.

Program Requirements

As of Fall 2021 the program consists of a 15-hour core that includes:

Two options are available beyond the core:

  • 30-hour MS: Complete 15 additional hours of graduate computer science work and write a substantial file paper meeting guidelines established by the college.
  • 33-hour MS: Complete 18 additional hours of graduate computer science work

A comprehensive examination is not required of degree candidates.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for admission must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Eligibility for admission to the program is determined by an evaluation that involves the scores achieved on the analytical, verbal and quantitative portions of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), the student’s grade point average over the last 60 hours of undergraduate work (junior college work is excluded) and an analysis of the student’s transcripts. More details can be found in the MSU graduate catalog at http://www.msutexas.edu/registrar/catalog/index.

A proficiency in computer science and mathematics is necessary to pursue the master’s degree. Applicants lacking background in these areas will be required to complete undergraduate preparation to attain the knowledge and skills required to pursue the graduate degree.

A minimum score on the TOEFL exam is required of all international students whose native language is not English. Details can be found at International Student Services.

Leveling Courses

Students lacking adequate preparation in Writing, Computer Science and/or Mathematics will be required to complete courses from the list below prior to enrolling in most graduate level courses in the degree program.

Computer Science

  • CMPS 1044 Computer Science I
  • CMPS 1063 Data Structures and ADT
  • CMPS 2084 Introduction to Computer Architecture
  • CMPS 2433 Discrete Structures and Analysis
  • CMPS 3013 Advanced Structures and Algorithms
  • CMPS 4103 Operating Systems

Mathematics

  • MATH 1233 College Algebra and MATH 1433 Trigonometry (or) MATH 1534 Pre-Calculus
  • MATH 1634 Calculus I

English

  • ENGL 2113 Composition Skills
Financial Assistance

A limited number of graduate assistantships are available to students in a competitive basis. All students entering the program must be self-supporting for at least one calendar year. Applications for assistantships and additional information regarding the degree program may be obtained from:

Dr. Nelson Passos
Professor and Graduate Coordinator
(940) 397-4129
e-mail: nelson.passos@msutexas.edu