Master of Science in Applied Computer Science
Program Description
From cybersecurity to machine learning, explosive growth in technology means businesses of all types need skilled high-tech workers. Columbus State University is helping meet demand by offering an MS in Applied Computer Science program that’s creative and comprehensive.
As a graduate student in the TSYS School of Computer Science, you’ll have a unique educational advantage. We work closely with regional businesses and industries to understand their needs and design a learning environment that’s innovative and responsive. Even better, you can customize our program to match your interests and career goals. We offer four concentrations:
- Cybersecurity Management
- Software Development
- Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning
- Traditional
But what makes our program special doesn’t end there. Columbus State’s Master’s of Science in Applied Computer Science offers students:
Accessibility: You don’t need a BS in computer science to thrive here. Many of our graduates hold undergraduate degrees in English, history, music, and math. Students new to the field can enter the program after completing two preparatory courses. It’s the perfect way to change the direction of your career without starting from scratch.
Flexibility: Learn on your terms. Our program can be completed entirely online, in the classroom, or through a hybrid approach that blends online and face-to-face learning.
Speed: Traditional master’s-level computer science programs require 36 credit hours of work, but ours provides the same high-quality instruction in 30-34 credit hours. That means a shorter time commitment and a potentially lower degree completion cost.
National Recognition: College Choice ranks CSU’s MS in Applied Computer Science #1 Most Affordable Online Master’s in Computer Science and Computer Science Online ranks it #3 among the Best Online Master’s Degrees in Computer Science. Columbus State is also recognized by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security as a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense education.
Career Outlook
With the rapid pace of technological innovation, demand for applied computing professionals far exceeds supply. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for computer and information research scientists is expected to grow 19% between 2016 and 2026 – much faster than the 7% average growth rate for all occupations.
In response to constantly changing threats, cybersecurity management is a particularly high-demand field. The National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies reports that demand for cybersecurity experts is growing 12 times faster than the current US job market. Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) are typically the highest-ranking cybersecurity employees in a company. According to the latest data from Salary.com, CISOs in the U.S. earn an average of $226,000 per year.
International students can gain work experience in the U.S. for 12 months under the Optional Practical Training Program, or OPT. Those who earn degrees in the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering or math) can apply for the STEM OPT extension. The extension provides an additional 24 months of work eligibility following graduation.