Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science

The program is designed to develop skills and educate CS students to be major contributors in the computing industry. The graduate program in computer science provides state-of-the-art education through the use of didactic courses to those students who wish to further their knowledge and careers within the computing industry. The program emphasizes continuing self-development and broadening of the knowledge of individuals currently engaged in science, technology and engineering-related fields. It also prepares persons who have completed undergraduate majors in these fields for entry into a career in the numerous areas that use computing technology. Both the theoretical and applied aspects of computer science are emphasized in this program. Program goals Advanced software design skills: To produce graduates who possess the necessary advanced analytical and technical skills in computer science – responds directly to the higher goal of fulfilling the needs of industry, academe and research laboratories for effective, productive engineers, professors and researchers Advanced problem-solving skills: To produce graduates who demonstrate creativity and innovation in solving technological problems – stems from the realization that new knowledge and new solutions to existing problems are necessary to meet the needs of our changing society and to advance the quality of human life

Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or its equivalent. Departments may admit graduate applicants with three-year bachelor’s degrees provided these three-year degrees allow the students to pursue graduate studies in their countries. Further, the department will require prerequisite/foundation courses as needed to fill in any gaps in the student’s educational background.Required grade point average. For admission to graduate study at VCU, the Graduate School requires an undergraduate GPA of 3.0.Entrance examinations. Letters of recommendation. Statement of intent. In addition to the general admission requirements of the VCU Graduate School and the College of Engineering, applicants to the M.S. program in computer science must satisfy the requirements outlined below.Acceptance of an applicant is based upon the recommendation of the graduate committee with approval of the program chair and the associate dean for graduate studies.Undergraduate education in computer science or in a related discipline or completion of Post-baccalaureate Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Science is highly preferred.