Master of Science in Applied Computer Science
Program Overview
Designed for students entering from any Bachelor’s degree, the Master of Science in Applied Computer Science prepares its graduates for success in the world of computing: software development, IT, computer science, databases, networks, security, web development. The coursework covers core areas that employers seek: databases, networks, web development, system administration, security, and software engineering. The goal of this program is to help students launch their career in computing through practical courses that employers value.
Program Format and Duration
The program is designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals. Students working full-time may take classes on a part-time basis by enrolling in one course a semester, or they be full-time students and registered for three courses each semester.
The program is offered in a hybrid format: classes will be taught primarily online with the opportunity for students to come to campus to interact with faculty members monthly at in-person office hours, access laboratories and attend career services and networking events. Throughout the program, students may work with their advisor to identify and take equivalent in-person classes at the main Foggy Bottom campus.
On-Campus Activities for ACS students:
- Networking events with ACS instructors who will discuss their courses and showcase past student projects.
- Career Services Events: ACS students will have the opportunity to connect with and get to know our career services staff members. ACS students will attend a resume and interview preparation session where they will receive immediate feedback on their resumes and learn about the different types of resumes. This session is designed to prepare ACS students for a panel discussion event later in the semester with industry professionals and for networking and recruiting events.
- Hands-on laboratory experience featuring IoT using the Raspberry-PI platform.
- Student project demos & presentations: Students will present their projects from the database course and/or the multimedia course and receive feedback.
- Semester Colloquia: ACS students are invited to attend the colloquia events throughout the semester where faculty members and invited speakers will conduct seminars for current students in the Computer Science department.
Program Requirements
- Credit hours: 30
- Duration: 1.5 years (full-time) or up to 3 years (part-time)
- Students are required to take CSCI 6003 Introduction to Software Design and Engineering
Admissions Requirements
- Applicants must have a 4-year bachelor's degree in any field. Note: an educational background in computer science is not required for a student to apply to this program.
- A three course programming sequence in Java, covering the following topics: basic programming (example topics: conditionals, loops, arrays, methods), data structures (example topics: lists, queues, stacks, multidimensional arrays), objects and object-oriented programming. These courses may be taken at any regionally accredited institution, including community colleges.
- Successful submission of online application form, exam scores, and other documents as outlined in the admissions requirements.
Please note: Due to its online format, this program will not offer I-20 forms for F-1 visa-seeking students. Non-visa-seeking international students in the US, however, are eligible to apply to this program but must meet English language test score minimums listed under English Language Test Exam Requirements if they did not complete a bachelor’s degree from a US institution or do not qualify for an exemption.
Deadline to Apply:
The deadline to apply for Fall admission is July 1.
Please contact [email protected] for any questions about the MS in Applied Computer Science program.
Financial Aid
Students who are registered either full-time or half-time are eligible for federal financial aid. Those interested in this funding option should contact the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
The M.S. in Applied Computer Science is GI Bill Approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How is the Master of Science in Applied Computer Science different from the Master of Science in Computer Science program?
The Master of Science in Computer Science is an on-campus program that requires mathematical prerequisites for admission due to the theoretical nature of the program content. The Applied Computer Science program is focused on hands-on, practical software development skills for the workplace.
- What are the prerequisites to enter the program?
Students must have a Bachelor’s degree in any field and the three prerequisite programming courses (or equivalent coursework).
- How long does the program take?
At the fastest pace, students can take three courses per semester and complete in one and half years. However, most students are likely to be working professionals and can take as few as one course per semester, in which case the duration will be just over three years.
- I do not have the three programming courses. Where can I take them?
The three courses (programming, data structures, object oriented programming) are typically offered in many community colleges. In the Washington, D.C. area, many of the area’s largest community colleges offer these courses: Northern Virginia Community College, Montgomery Community College, Howard Community College, Prince George’s County Community College.
- How will I know whether my prerequisite courses will prepare me for success in the program?
The first course in the program, CSCI 6003, is designed to review critical material and identify gaps in students’ backgrounds.
- I do not have a mathematical background. Will I be able to succeed in the program?
A background in mathematics is not required to be successful in the program. The courses focus on programming and implementation, as well as concepts, in areas that are critical to jobs in the software industry.
- What are the program course requirements?
Students will take one required course, CSCI 6003: Introduction to Software Design and Engineering and work with their faculty advisor to choose 27 credits in elective courses. A list of suggested courses can be found in the bulletin requirements.
- Can I get into a cybersecurity career with the Applied Computer Science degree?
Cybersecurity employers seek employees with different backgrounds. Not everyone has to have specialized deeply in cybersecurity. The programming experience from the Applied Computer Science program along with a few security courses form a strong foundation for a career in cybersecurity.
- Where can I get more information? Can I talk to someone?
Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or to arrange an appointment.
- What is the tuition for the program?
For the 2024-2025 academic year, students will be charged regular on-campus tuition and will receive a 50% tuition discount. Please refer to the Tuition & Fees for more information.