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Getting Your Master’s Degree in Computer Science with the GI Bill

Getting Your Master’s Degree in Computer Science with the GI Bill

The University of Minnesota official site says, "The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) graduate program offers coursework across a broad spectrum of theoretical and applied computer science, combined with research opportunities in nearly all areas of the field."

With a Master’s degree in computer science, you can go into many industries such as business, healthcare, finance, and technology. You can find employment in a large corporation, a nonprofit, a startup, and even the government. Most industries use technology in some form, so your job prospects are high.

Although you can get a decent job with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, pursuing your master’s in computer science opens even more doors. This is helpful in a competitive market and will give you more room for advancement. Getting your master’s degree will allow you to move into upper management.

Some people enter a master’s program after getting their bachelor’s degree, while others return to school after years in the workforce. They may want to make a career change or have hit a wall in their current job.

Online or In-person

Regarding getting your master’s degree in computer science, you can attend an in-person or online program. The benefits of an online program may appeal to working professionals or those looking for a career transition. In-person programs may appeal more for those coming from undergraduate programs or those who simply want that in-person experience.

Master’s of Computer Science Program

What will students learn in a master’s of computer science program? This depends on the specification, the school, and the type of program the student is in. Generally speaking, students will learn how to solve problems and communicate with programming languages. They will build databases and work to figure out security vulnerabilities.

The computer science degree has its foundations in math and science and requires students to possess strong analytical reasoning skills to solve problems.

Specializations

When entering a master’s degree program, you must decide on a specialization. Some of the more common specializations in computer science are software engineering, data analytics, high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, computer and network security, human and computer interaction, real-world computing, and database systems.

Common Classes

  • Database Systems– where you explore the fundamentals of designing databases and applications, studying data models, query languages, and different techniques for building databases.
  • Software Architecture and Design- where you would examine the basic principles of analyzing and designing software systems, how to apply object-oriented design techniques, assess various architectural systems, create software architectures and use correct software design patterns.
  • Data Structures and Algorithms- where you explore the fundamentals of data structures, including stacks, queues, lists, trees, graphs, and algorithms.
  • Artificial Intelligence- where you learn about the basic principles and applications of AI.
  • Programming Languages- where you learn about the design and use of mainstream programming languages.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements will also depend on the program. Generally, you will need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, usually with a major or at least a minor in computer science or a computer science-related field. Some programs require a 3.0 or higher GPA, professional experience, completing the GRE, writing an essay, recommendations, certificates, and letters of intent.

Top Master’s in Computer Science Programs

There are many different master’s in computer science programs, some are in-person, and some are online.

Top 10 Master’s in Computer Science Programs

Jobs With a Master’s Degree in Computer Science

Scholarships for Students Getting a Master’s in Computer Science

Here are a few scholarships for those getting their master’s in computer science. You can also find our longer list of scholarships for computer science majorsat College Recon.

Society of Women Engineers-Honeywell Scholarship

The Honeywell Scholarship from the Society of Women Engineers is for sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate students who are US citizens and have an SWE Collegiate membership. Preference will be given to under-represented groups and/or those who demonstrate financial need. Students must be studying certain degrees, including computer science. The award of $5,000 will be given to three students

PG&E Better Together STEM Scholarship

The PG&E Better Together STEM Scholarship is for those who are either a high school senior, or a graduate, an undergraduate, or a post-secondary undergraduate. Veterans and adults returning to school can also apply. Applicants must have a primary residence that is a PG&E customer in California at the time of the application. They must plan to enroll full-time in an accredited college or university, pursuing studies in STEM at a California college or university. They should also have an interest in the energy industry and STEM-related issues. Past awards have ranged from $1,000-$10,000.

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