Individuals with an online Master’s in Computer Science learn to manipulate data to create new and more innovative software, as well as to enhance current trends. Students in this department speak the intricate language of computer science and mathematics to create a new and more innovative world. According to a recent article in U.S. News and World Report, jobs in technology are consistently placed high in the U.S. News Best Jobs rankings. The two reasons for this consistent high job placement include the level of pay in technology jobs and the continued high demand for new workers.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the job outlook for computer science professionals at 16% over the next 8-10 years, which is much faster than average! These numbers come out to 546,100 new computer and information technology jobs that will be created between 2016 to 2026. Computer science professionals also earn very comfortable wages, on average $122,840 per year, and have the opportunity to work according to their own schedules.
quick links
- Top 15 Online Master’s in Computer Science
- GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
- VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- DREXEL UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
- COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
- WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
- BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY
- COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY
- NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE
- NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY
- Frequently Asked Questions
Doctoral degree information: 4 Best Online Schools for Doctor in Computer Science Degree Programs and a Career Guide: Computer Science Career and Salary Guide
Top 15 Online Master’s in Computer Science
Methodology: The editors of OnlineSchoolsCenter.com collect the most important and relevant data about colleges, universities, and campus facilities from various highly respected sources and offer them in a simple format that is easy to understand. In developing this list, OnlineSchoolsCenter.com chose to list the schools in random order, highlighting fifteen of the very best programs, all of which have their own unique strengths. Methodology for the list includes several factors, such as,
- Meets proper Accreditation requirements,
- Has acceptable Tuition Rates,
- Offers Financial Aid opportunities, featuring Grants, Scholarships & Military Discounts,
- Displays satisfactory acceptance rates, as well as, positive student reviews,
- Offers many program options and degree outcomes in the field of Computer Science,
- Offers the Master of Computer Science degree in 100% Online or Hybrid degree program format,
- Prepares each student for a career in Computer Science data systems and more; experience through theoretical and academic learning and practical skill set,
- Allows for careers in Software Development, Network Engineering, Computer Programming, Computer Systems Analysis, and much more,
- Ideal for working professionals; online programs providing convenience and flexibility.
To learn more about our school selection process, see our Methodology page.
GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
Online MS in Computer Science Degree Program: Data Mining and Data Warehousing
Program Standouts:
Georgia Southern offers two unique concentrations in their Master of Science in Computer Science degree program: Data Mining and Data Warehousing, “one of only a handful of such master’s degrees in the world.” Students will learn a simply formatted curriculum that delivers a massive amount of information and skill within the field.
Campus Location: Statesboro, GA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal loans and grants, institutional and external scholarships, and work-study.
Acceptance Rate: 68.3%
Admission Requirements:
Interested applicants must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, or its equivalent, and are to submit all official transcripts with a cumulative GPA of no less than 3.0. Applicants must submit GRE scores, and international students must submit TOEFL scores as well.
Program Options:
- Data Mining
- Data Warehousing
Degree Outcomes:
Students learn from a team of well-informed, highly experience commuter scientists who instills a wealth of information and skill upon their students. Graduates have many different networking connections upon exiting the program and will have no trouble at all in finding a suitable position or climbing higher in a current career!
Learn more about Georgia Southern University’s Online MS in Computer Science Degree Program featuring Data Mining and Data Warehousing
VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE
MS in Computer Engineering Distance Learning Program
Program Standouts:
At Virginia Tech, the curriculum is designed to cater to each student’s needs and goals. Since different employers crave varying education backgrounds from their employees, students work with faculty members in choosing which route is most suitable (thesis or more broadly-based coursework). The Master of Science in Computer Engineering gives students exactly the preparation they need for the future.
Campus Location: Blacksburg, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Work-study programs, graduate assistantships, loans, grants, and institutional scholarships.
Acceptance Rate: 70.1%
Admission Requirements:
Students must hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution and must submit official transcripts. Other requirements include several letters of recommendation and GRE/GMAT scores.
Program Options:
- Computer Systems
- Networking
- Software and Machine Intelligence
- VLSI and Design Automation Area
Degree Outcomes:
Through Virginia Tech’s impressive curriculum that is individually crafted, and perfected, graduate students will have the skills and knowledge to climb higher within current careers, focus on new horizons, or start new career paths! The care and attention that goes into guiding graduate students toward their futures as computer engineers are unparalleled at VT.
Learn more about Virginia Polytechnic Institute’s MS in Computer Engineering Distance Learning Program
STANFORD UNIVERSITY
Online MS in Computer Science
Program Standouts:
Students master the field of Computer Science from one of the most respected academic institutions in the country, Stanford University, from the comfort of their own home! Students must satisfy three “Breadth Requirements:” Mathematics, Computer Systems, and AI and Applications, through which they learn multiple angles of CS.
Campus Location: Stanford, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and state grants, student employment, employer tuition programs, institutional and outside scholarships.
Acceptance Rate: 4.7%
Admission Requirements:
Students must fulfill certain departmental prerequisite requirements in order to apply. Upon which time they must submit all official transcripts, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Operating Systems and Systems Programming
- Database Systems Principles
- Machine Learning
Degree Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program, students will have either already begun the climb to positions of higher responsibility, authority, and pay, within a career or employment position, or will have the skills necessary to land such a position at a reputable institution, company, or business.
Learn more about Stanford University’s Online MS in Computer Science Degree Program
EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
MS in Computer Science or a Master of Science in Computer Network Management Online Degree
Program Standouts:
ECU offers challenging and unique programs in computer science: a Master of Science in Computer Science and a Master of Science in Computer Network Management. Depending on the career path students are currently on our wish to approach, they can direct their education in a highly beneficial way at East Carolina University.
Campus Location: Greenville, NC
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal loans and grants, institutional scholarships and payment plans, student employment, fellowships, and Veterans’ and military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Admission Requirements:
Documents required for admission consideration including the following: a completed application form, application fee, official transcripts for all colleges/universities attended, three letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, a current resume, GRE or GMAT scores. International applicants must additionally submit a satisfactory TOEFL score.
Program Options:
- Master of Science in Computer Science
- Master of Science in Computer Network Management
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this program have peerless knowledge and skills to enhance any business’s current technology and computer systems trends. With the understanding to maneuver and manipulate data to create more intelligent programs, employers can trust ECU graduates.
Learn more about East Carolina University’s MS in Computer Science or MS in Computer Network Management Online Degree Programs
JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
distance learning MS of Computer Science
Program Standouts:
Not only are students earning a degree from one of the finest institutions in the country, if not the world, “Computer professionals, scientists, and engineers benefit from a full range of instruction and skills building in a variety of areas including theory, analysis, design, and implementation of information systems.”
Campus Location: Baltimore, MD
Accreditation: Middles States Commission on Higher Education
Types of Aid: Payment plans, institutional grants and scholarships, student employment opportunities, and federal financial aid.
Acceptance Rate: 12.5%
Admission Requirements:
Students must submit all official and unofficial transcripts and must complete the program prerequisites which can found on the program website below. Other documentation includes several letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and a statement of purpose.
Program Options:
- Telecommunications
- Networking
Degree Outcomes:
Through one of the two specializations, along with individualized coursework, and mentoring from faculty members and advisors, students will be able to craft a major that will satisfy all their needs a future employee or executive in whichever industry they find most fitting. With a degree from Johns Hopkins, many doors will open!
Learn more about Johns Hopkins University’s Distance Learning MS of Computer Science Degree Program
DREXEL UNIVERSITY
MS in Computer Science e-learning degree program
Program Standouts:
This cutting-edge program is designed to give students an excellent background in practice and theory. The curriculum provides practical training for computer scientists, specialists, and engineers, and is taught by faculty members and professionals with a wide range of computer science specialties.
Campus Location: Philadelphia, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Types of Aid: Institutional scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships; federal loans, grants, and work-study; payment plans and Veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants to this program are expected to have a four-year bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering or the physical sciences from a regionally accredited institution. Required documents include a completed application, official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a current resume, GRE scores, and international students must additionally submit TOEFL scores.
Program Options:
- Advanced Artificial Intelligence
- Computational Geometry
- Developing User Interfaces
Degree Outcomes:
This rigorous and challenging program gives students a thorough yet flexible education. Under the tutelage of well-versed and nationally renowned faculty members, students work through a highly interactive curriculum to earn the title of “professional” for themselves.
Learn more about Rexel University’s MS in Computer Science Online Degree Program
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
online Master of Computer Science program
Program Standouts:
In the Urbana-Champaign online Master of Computer Science program, students learn from the same faculty and the same curriculum as online students, earning a degree from a well-known institution. There are no restrictions for online coursework and students have the flexibility to apply their learned skills to a current career.
Campus Location: Champaign, IL
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Assistantships, fellowships, work-study, loans, grants, and awards.
Acceptance Rate: 61.5%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants are expected to have an undergraduate background in a field of computer science or engineering, as well as a GPA of 3.2 or higher. Those without a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field must fulfill the proper prerequisites. Students must submit a complete application, a non-refundable application fee of $60, a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and a current resume. International students must also submit TOEFL scores.
Program Options:
- Computer Architecture
- Machine Learning
- Artificial Intelligence
Degree Outcomes:
According to the departmental website, “The online MCS allows you to leverage our world-class faculty and research, and your on-campus peers for a distance learning program unlike any other.” Students have unique opportunities in coursework and projects that deliver graduates into the workforce with solid teamwork skills and experience.
Learn more about the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Online Master of Computer Science Program
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
Master’s of Computer Science Online Distance Learning Degree Program
Program Standouts:
The career opportunities and job placement rate for Master’s of Computer Science students is incredibly high, as students are taught in a huge number of application areas within the field. In this online degree, coursework is broad, yet focused, making sure that students have a thorough and exciting academic career.
Campus Location: Fort Collins, CO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal loans and grants, and tuition assistance plans, institutional and external scholarships, military discounts, and Veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 82.6%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants interested in this program must have successfully complete prerequisite coursework, and are required to submit official transcripts, a personal statement, a current resume, three letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and international students are to additionally submit TOEFL scores.
Program Options:
- Software Specification and Design
- Parallel Processing
- Fault-Tolerant Computing
Degree Outcomes:
According to the CSU website, “Approximately 70% of CSU’s Master of Computer Science students have job offers upon graduation. Graduates are highly sought after by major high–tech, computer software, and aerospace companies, like Microsoft, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, Motorola, Raytheon, and Lockheed-Martin. In addition, employment opportunities are rapidly growing in small– and medium-sized companies.”
Learn more about Colorado State University’s Online Master of Computer Science Degree Program
WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
Online MS in Software Engineering
Program Standouts:
West Virginia University offers an esteemed Master of Science in Software Engineering program designed to enhance the skills of computer science and software engineers, driving them to further heights within the field. With several education options, students have the opportunity to learn in ways that are most expeditious and comfortable.
Campus Location: Morgantown, WV
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Types of Aid: Institutional and outside scholarships, loans, grants, and student employment.
Acceptance Rate: 71.9%
Admission Requirements:
Students are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related major with a cumulative GPA of 3.0. Along with their completed application, students are to submit GRE scores, a current resume with relevant experience, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts.
Program Options:
- Coursework Option
- Problem Report Option
- Thesis Option
- Research Option
- Experiential Learning Option
Degree Outcomes:
Students can focus their curriculum, research, and coursework through avenues in which their education in a manner most well-received. Thereby, upon graduation, students will be able to apply their academic careers to their professional careers in the most relevant way possible.
Learn more about West Virginia University’s Online MS in Software Engineering
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Online MS in Computer Science
Program Standouts:
At the University of Southern California, there is a slew of specializations and concentrations through which students can find their true calling in the field of computer science. Students are educated with the most current and up-to-date design and programming methods, and graduates have much employment and continued education opportunities ahead of them.
Campus Location: Los Angeles, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Types of Aid: Federal loans, grants, and awards, private scholarships, and military and Veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 16%
Admission Requirements:
Students are expected to have a solid background in computer science and are to submit, along with their completed application, official transcripts with a satisfactory cumulative GPA, and GRE scores. Letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose are not required but are highly encouraged.
Program Options:
- Computer Networks
- Computer Security
- Data Science
- Game Development
- High-Performance Computing and Simulation
- Intelligent Robotics
- Multimedia and Creative Technologies
- Software Engineering
- Scientists and Engineers
Degree Outcomes:
Students are required to undergo a broad spectrum of coursework in order to give them the most extensive education possible. In this way, students will be highly prepared for a challenging and fulfilling career and/or further education.
Learn more about the University of Southern California’s Online MS in Computer Science
BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY
MA in Computer Science or MA in Computer Linguistics E-Learning Degree Programs
Program Standouts:
Brandeis University offers two unique majors in computer science with excellent placement upon graduation: a Master of Arts in Computer Science and a Master of Arts in Computer Linguistics. Both offer small class sizes and large amounts of time spent closely working with faculty members to create a tight-knit academic community.
Campus Location: Waltham, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal grants and loans, institutional and private scholarships, fellowships, and work-study.
Acceptance Rate: 34.2%
Admission Requirements:
Interested applicants are to submit an online application, official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a current resume or CV, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores.
Program Options:
- Master of Arts in Computer Science
- Master of Arts in Computer Linguistics
Degree Outcomes:
Within this strong online learning community, students are well-attended to and supported by the institution and the program department. Graduates go on to have exciting careers in many large and highly profitable industries all over the world!
Learn more about Brandeis University’s Online MA in Computer Science or Computer Linguistics Degree Programs
COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY
Online Master of Computer Science Degree
Program Standouts:
Offering four unique concentrations, the curriculum at Colorado Tech educates students in many key areas of computer science, including operating systems and networking, as well as computer system architecture and the software system engineering process. Skilled in many areas as well as a focused specialization makes these graduate professionals in their field.
Campus Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Types of Aid: Federal and state loans, grants, and awards, institutional and private scholarships and grants, private loans, and payment plans.
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Requirements:
Interested applicants must complete an interview either in person or over the phone, submit a completed application, official transcripts, and an entrance essay.
Program Options:
- Computer Systems Security
- Database Systems
- General
- Software Engineering
Degree Outcomes:
With incredibly high placement rates and statistics gathered from employers and alumni, graduates from this program are sought after and admired by employers. Students will choose from many different career paths and will have the knowledge and skill to explore their profession.
Learn more about Colorado Technical University’s Online Master of Computer Science Degree
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
MS in Computer Science Distance Learning Program
Program Standouts:
According to their website, “Notably, the security concentration is recognized by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). As a result of this recognition, federal agencies may sponsor civilian and military personnel to take the school’s certified graduate courses.”
Campus Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and state grants and loans, private loans, institutional and alternative scholarships, work-study programs, Veterans’ benefits, and payment plans.
Acceptance Rate: 58.2%
Admission Requirements:
Interested applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher and are to submit a completed application, a current resume, and official transcripts. Upon reviewing a student’s application, the college may require further documentation.
Program Options:
- Theory
- Software Engineering
- Computer Systems
- Database, Security, and Real-World Computing
Degree Outcomes:
Among many learned skills and techniques, graduates will be able to communicate computer science concepts, designs, and solutions effectively and professionally; and use software development tools, software systems, and modern computing platforms.
Learn more about Nova Southeastern University’s MS in Computer Science Distance Learning Program
UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE
Online Master of Computer Science
Program Standouts:
The University of Lousiville’s challenging, yet rewarding, online Master of Computer Science program is perfect for individuals who do not have a background in computer science but have the aptitude and vigor to delve into a new field! Graduate students learn from “award-winning faculty who provide an educational experience you won’t find anywhere else.”
Campus Location: Louisville, KY
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal loans, grants, awards, institutional scholarships, employer tuition assistance, payment plans, and military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 75.3%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants are to submit the required documentation: a competed application, evidence of a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher, official transcripts, GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, and a $60 non-refundable application fee.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Digital Image Processing
- Software Engineering
- Advanced Databases and Warehouses
Degree Outcomes:
Louisville grads will have the opportunity to work in career settings of their choosing—whether that means working from the comfort of a home desktop, or in a more fast-paced major industry. As the need for computer science professionals continues to grow, the University of Louisville produces outstanding experts in the field.
Learn more about the University of Louisville’s Online Master of Computer Science Degree Program
NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY
Online Master’s Degree in Computer Science
Program Standouts:
Operating within many departments at North Carolina State University, the Master of Computer Science distance education program draws coursework from the College of Engineering, the College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, and other distinct areas within the school. Students can also design their curriculum to learn from other uniquely applicable areas as well.
Campus Location: Raleigh, NC
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Institutional fellowships and outside scholarships, federal and state grants and loans, and federal work-study.
Acceptance Rate: 51.4%
Admission Requirements:
Interested applicants to NCSU must submit a completed application, official transcripts, GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. International students whose first language is something other than English must submit proof of English literacy.
Sampling of Coursework:
- The architecture of Parallel Computers
- Advanced-Data Structures
- Human-Computer Interaction
Degree Outcomes:
Through a diverse pattern of coursework and by working closely with faculty and online peers, students learn to work through complex challenges and design and build new innovative computer science platforms.
Learn more about North Carolina State University’s Online Master’s Degree in Computer Science
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I learn in an online Master of Computer Science degree program?
Are you interested in conducting crucial research in the field of Computer Science? If so, earning an online Master’s degree in Computer Science is for you. You can expect to expand and build upon your current knowledge and skillset in this advanced graduate program. A comprehensive understanding of computer systems, software development, and computer programming can be expected.
If you so desire, you may choose an area of concentration; however, other coursework, such as algorithm design and structure, artificial intelligence, and distributed systems, computer architecture, game development, and bioinformatics may be included. Mathematics courses, such as logic and statistics, numerical analysis, and mathematical methods, may also be required.
To finish your online Master of Computer Science degree program, you most likely can expect to complete a Computer Science unique project or thesis in which you must defend in front of a faculty panel.
What types of careers and salaries are available to me with an online Master of Computer Science degree?
Earning an online Master’s degree in Computer Science can catapult your career to the next level, without a doubt. You can expect a senior position, along with a pay raise to match.
The top five positions that you may want to consider with an online Master of Computer Science degree in hand are:
- Senior Web Developer…. $87,712 annually
- Senior Database Administrator…. $98,052 annually
- Computer & Information Research Scientist…. $122,840 annually
- Software Developer…. $105,590 annually
- Computer Systems Analysts…. $99,220 annually
With your master’s degree and some experience in research and leadership, you can obtain your dream job!
Can I earn a Master of Computer Science degree through an online learning format? When it comes to your education, only the best will do, right? It’s very important for you to locate a Master’s degree program in Computer Science that will fit your needs, as well as your family’s schedule. Online distance learning programs are designed for the working professional with household responsibilities and a full-time job in place.
Can online programs be just as good as the traditional brick and mortar program? Absolutely, online programs of today do not carry the inferior stigma that they used to; however, you will undoubtedly want to be careful of the school you choose for your online needs. Proper accreditation is crucial and displays that the strict regulations set forth by today’s standards are set in place, ensuring you a quality degree program.
Will your diploma reflect that you have earned an “online” degree? No, most schools do not indicate on their award that it was acquired through an online degree program. But, rest assured, most employers know the reputation or quality of the program in which you complete, so pick your school wisely.
Are online degree programs always 100% online? Not always; therefore, you will need to check to see if there are any on-campus requirements. Occasionally, hybrid coursework comes into play, which allows you to complete your Master’s degree in Computer Science primarily online; however, some on-campus attendance will be required, such as for lab work, in-person lectures, or workshops needed for working on your thesis project. Check your online program requirements before signing on, in addition to any internship requirements. You may need to consider travel proximities, if applicable.
What else should you consider? Before signing onto an online Master of Computer Science degree program, be sure you can successfully meet the software, equipment, and Internet requirements needed to complete your degree online. Also, consider your networking and student support options, as well, when choosing an online school that is right for you!
