Upgrade your career with an advanced computer science degree
An undergraduate degree can take you far in your computer science career, but a graduate computer science degree opens doors to even greater opportunities. The Master of Science in Computer Science at the University of Missouri–St. Louis prepares you for senior-level roles that require not only strategic planning and managing expertise but also a deep understanding of technology, excellent communication skills and savvy problem-solving abilities.
Our MS in computer science blends innovative research with exceptional educational programs, providing you with the theoretical foundation and practical experience necessary for success in a wide range of fields. In addition to essential coursework in programming, advanced data structures and algorithms, and software engineering, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and data science.
Choose the UMSL degree that fits your goals
Our 30-credit-hour MS in computer science offers three options to tailor your learning journey to your unique interests:- Traditional Option. Our traditional Master of Science in Computer Science provides you with a comprehensive, applications-based study of the field.
- Certificate Option. Pursue your graduate computer science degree with focused study in one of five specific disciplines:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Data Science
- Internet and Web
- Mobile Apps and Computing
- Professional Option. Already have a bachelor’s degree and at least three years of experience in the computing/technology field? With this option, you can earn your MS in computer science degree while utilizing your existing work expertise.
Program type:
Graduate, MS
Format:
On-Campus
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Why earn your MS in computer science at UMSL?
Computer science ranks among the fasting-growing occupations , and UMSL is dedicated to ensuring you’re well-prepared meet the demands of this ever-changing field. Designed with your success in mind, our MS in computer science offers the high-quality education you need to take the next step in your computer science career:
- Expert faculty. Our computer science faculty are internationally recognized experts in their field who bring a wealth of industry experience to the classroom. They’re dedicated to ensuring that you have what you need to succeed throughout your computer science degree program and beyond.
- Small class sizes. Most of our graduate computer science degree courses are capped at 25 students per class. This ensures you have the personalized attention and support you deserve, while also fostering a collaborative learning environment.
- Experiential learning opportunities. All of our MS in computer science courses are driven by hands-on projects that will help you develop the highly valued skills employers are looking for.
What can you do with an MS in computer science?
The demand for skilled computer science professionals is booming across diverse industries, fueled by the relentless pace of technological innovation. Our Master of Science in Computer Science provides you with a broad computing background, along with hands-on experience in a variety of technologies, to meet this demand.While companies are actively seeking experts in the dynamic field, they face a dwindling pool of qualified candidates. As a result, graduates of advanced computer degree program are highly sought-after and well compensated.
The versatility of our MS in computer science prepares you for a variety of exciting and lucrative career paths, such as web and app development, computer programming, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, machine learning and business intelligence development, to name a few.
In addition, those already working in the field will be well qualified to advance to more senior roles in their computer science career, or they can leverage the expert knowledge gained from their UMSL degree to transition into a new career path within the industry.
Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow up to 23 percent by 2032, with a median annual salary of $136,620, according to wage and employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
136,620
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Career Opportunities
- Artificial Intelligence Specialist
- Chief Technology Officer
- Computer Information Research Scientist
- Computer Network Architect
- Computer Systems Manager
- Database Administrator
- Digital Forensics Analyst
- Director of Software Engineering
- Information Security Manager
- Information Systems Analyst
- Mobile App Developer
- Network and Systems Administrator
- Software Developer
- Web Developer
Degree Admission Requirements
Application Deadlines
Applications submitted after the deadlines will be considered for admissions on a rolling basis until the beginning of the semester.
Domestic applicants: Fall admission: July 1; Spring admission: December 1; Summer admission: May 1
International applicants: Fall semester: May 1; Spring Semester: October 1
Download Program RequirementsPlan of study
Review Full Degree Requirements Download 2-Year Academic MapNon-Missouri Residents: Prospective students are responsible for reviewing the UMSL state authorizations page to see if this program is offered in their state throughout their program and to review the licensure or certification requirements for the state in which they reside.
Student Organizations - Make new friends and learn new skills by joining one of our Recognized Student Organizations.
Career Services – Students have access to professional career counselors who can assist in everything from resume development and interview preparation to lining up an internship or connecting you with your next fulltime career. UMSL alumni also enjoy high quality, lifelong career management programming, services, events and resources to assist in all phases of career development.
Networking – with the largest alumni network in the region, UMSL graduate students have access to leading professionals engaged in business, research, entrepreneurship, non-profit, government, community organizations. Our academic units engage this network in curriculum development to ensure our graduate students gain the skills needed to advance along their choose career path.
Research – There are many opportunities for graduate students to showcase their research including our annual Graduate Research Fair, which is open to students from all graduate programs. Doctoral and thesis master’s students can also compete in the Three Minute Thesis challenge to be evaluated by a panel of judges for a chance to win cash prizes.
