The Master of Science degree has a strong emphasis on research with a resulting thesis and defense. There is coursework involved, but you should be prepared to focus your efforts in a specific area of Computer Science. If you would prefer to do just course work, you would work toward a Master of Computer Science degree.

Information and program requirements for all graduate degrees can be found in the Graduate Student Manual (GSM). This is a good starting point for anyone looking for a graduate program in the Computer Science Department. The GSM was recently updated, and students starting in 2020 will follow the new requirements. Current students have the option of following either the earlier or the new requirements.

The Computer Science Department at Colorado State University offers a program of study leading to the Master of Science degree in Computer Science. Possible areas of emphasis are detailed on our Research page.

Once the Department receives a complete application, the admissions committee reviews the application and promptly notifies the applicant of their decision.

Students may be admitted for fall or spring semesters.

All admissible applicants will be considered for a teaching or research assistantship on a competitive basis. Assistantships carry a monthly stipend for half-time duties. Summer support may be available. Visit our Graduate Support page for more information.