Master of Science in Computer Science

Transform Your Tech Career with an MS in Computer Science

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) is a rigorous and comprehensive graduate program that provides a sound foundation in core computer science principles as well as in cutting-edge computer science concentrations. It provides coverage of the theory and practice of computer science and enables students to develop competency in an area of professional specialization. The program focuses on innovative and transformative learning to ensure that students are well prepared for the challenges of the rapidly evolving computing, engineering, and scientific industries as well as the challenges of future academic and research-based endeavors.

The MSCS courses are delivered through a combination of evening or weekend classes, and through the University’s Learning Management System (which can be completed at home). Some courses may be structured as directed studies in which students work one-on-one with the Program Chair or other faculty.

The program is designed to be completed in 1.5 years for full-time students (who take 9 units per quarter) and between 2 and 2.5 years for part-time students (less than 9 units per quarter).

The maximum allowable time for degree completion is 4 years.

State Authorizations for Distance Education

Sofia University is licensed, registered, authorized, certified, or formally exempt in the following states and territories as indicated on our State Authorizations page. 

Faculty

Our faculty is comprised of passionate thought-leaders dedicated to bringing their expertise and knowledge to the forefront of all of our programs. Learn more about our MS in Computer Science Faculty members.

Quick Facts

Upcoming Start Dates

Summer – July 6, 2021

Fall – October 4, 2021

Winter – January 10, 2022

Spring – April 4, 2022

Time to degree completion

18 months

Per Unit Cost

$470

Estimated Total Cost

$22,560

Total Number of Units

48

Format

Hybrid – Online + On-Site*

*Currently, due to COVID-19 and the mandatory stay safer at home orders in California, all of our on-site courses have shifted to a virtual-online format.

“

As a computer science student at Sofia University, this has been a very positive educational experience for me, and I feel very happy that I am a part of it. The faculty really care about the students and the academics are excellent. This is one of the best schools in the Bay area.

Harish MuuvalaAlumnus, MS in Computer Science, Class of 2016

Key Highlights

Supreme Silicon-Valley Location

Our Northern California campus is located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Network with professionals from companies like Google, Apple, Facebook, IBM, and explore the bustling and diverse metropolitan city of San Francisco. The accessibility of our Palo Alto campus to a diverse mix of cultural, educational, and recreational resources gives students a little bit of everything.

Affordable

Our MSCS program is ranked as one of the most affordable online colleges for masters in science. Awarded by Sr. Education Group for the 2019 school year.

Innovative

AI & Machine Building, Robotics/Drone Computing, and Cybersecurity. Stay ahead of the curve with cutting-edge STEM courses and concentrations that are in high demand.

Accredited

Sofia is accredited by WASC Western School of Schools and Colleges Commission (WSCUC), the nation's premier regional accreditation body for higher education.

Flexible

Classes offered in online formats, as well as in evenings and weekends. Because we understand that like many of our students, you're juggling a full-time job, family, and other commitments.

Concentrations

Artificial Intelligence - Robotics/Drone Computing

Possible career outcomes include:

» Statistical Analyst

» Machine Learning

» AI

 

Artificial Intelligence - Machine Learning

Possible career outcomes include:

» Data Scientist

» Machine Learning

» AI

 

Human Computer Interaction (HCI)

Possible career outcomes include:

» Computer Scientist

» Robotics Computing

 

Artificial Intelligence - Data Science

Possible career outcomes include:

» Data Scientist

» Forensic Scientist

» Cyber Security

Cyber Security & Information Assurance

Possible career outcomes include:

» Interface Design & Implementation

» Web Developer

» User-Centered Researcher

Learning Outcomes

1

Apply computer science principles, logic and analytic reasoning, research and mathematics to the development of innovative, relevant, and cost-effective solutions to complex computational problems and case situations.

2

Communicate effectively using a variety of media and genres to meet the needs of the situation and intended audience across a range of personal and professional purposes and settings.

3

Integrate relevant moral and ethical frameworks, legal standards, and regulations with computer science knowledge in the development of solutions to computational problems.

4

Communicate effectively using a variety of media and genres to meet the needs of the circumstances and intended audience across a range of personal and professional purposes and settings.

Curriculum

To receive a Master of Science in Computer Science degree, students must successfully complete a minimum of 48 units. The following are specific degree requirements:

Core Courses - 24 units

The following Core Courses introduce foundational knowledge and skills needed by a computer science professional, and must be completed in the first or second quarter of study:

• MSCS1021 Technical Writing and Analysis for Computer Scientists Part I: Fundamentals (3)
• MSCS2103 Systems Programming (3)
• MSCS3801 Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science (3)

The following Core Courses can be taken at any point in the program:

• MSCS2101 Software Engineering (3)
• MSCS2401 Data Science (3)
• MSCS3802 Automata, Computation, and Complexity (3)
• MSCS3803 Algorithms in Python and R (3)
• MSCS3804 Cyber Security and Information Assurance (3)

Concentrations Courses - 15 units

Students select one of the following Concentrations; all listed courses in the concentration must be completed. In some cases, a student must successfully complete a designated Core Course prior to embarking on the Concentration.

Artificial Intelligence – Machine Learning
• MSCS2201 Artificial Intelligence (3)
• MSCS2202 Machine Learning (3)
• MSCS3805 Statistical Analysis for Computer Science (3)
• MSCS3806 Advanced Topics in AI and Machine Learning (3)
• MSCS3008 Introduction to Robotics (3)

NOTE: MSCS2401 Data Science must be completed before beginning this Concentration.

Artificial Intelligence – Data Science
• MSCS2201 Artificial Intelligence (3)
• MSCS2202 Machine Learning (3)
• MSCS3008 Introduction to Robotics (3)
• MSCS3019 Data Visualization (3)
• MSCS3805 Statistical Analysis for Computer Science (3)

NOTE: MSCS2401 Data Science must be completed before beginning this Concentration.

Artificial Intelligence – Robotics/Drone Computing
• MSCS2201 Artificial Intelligence (3)
• MSCS2702 Unmanned Aircraft Technology for Computer Scientists (3)
• MSCS3008 Introduction to Robotics (3)
• MSCS3805 Statistical Analysis for Computer Science (3)
• MSCS3808 Advanced Robotics Computing (3)

Cyber Security and Information Assurance
• MSCS2202 Machine Learning (3)
• MSCS3019 Data Visualization (3)
• MSCS3920 Cyber Security: Defense (3)
• MSCS3921 Cyber Security: Forensics and Attack Analysis (3)
• MSCS3922 Applied Cryptography (3)

NOTE: MSCS3804 Cyber Security and Information Assurance must be completed before beginning this concentration.

Human Computer Interaction (HCI)
• MSCS2301 User Interface Design and Implementation (3)
• MSCS3019 Data Visualization (3)
• MSCS3301 User Centered Research and Evaluation (3)
• MSCS3302 HCI in Ubiquitous Computing (3)
• MSCS3204 Web Development (3)

Elective Courses - 6 units

Students select 6 units in Computer Science not previously taken, or in Psychology or Business Administration for which prerequisites have been fulfilled or permission of the respective Program Chair is granted.

Internship or Curricular Practical Training - 6 units

An Internship or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is optional and may count for up to 3 units of Elective Courses with Program Chair approval. Internship or CPT units taken beyond the 3 units will not count towards degree requirements.

• INTC3000 Full-Time Internship (3)
• INTC3001 Part-Time Internship (1)

Students are responsible for securing their own internships; they should speak with their Program Chair or academic advisor, and/or contact the Dean of Student Services, for recommendations and assistance in identifying and applying for opportunities of interest.

Capstone Courses - 3 units

The Capstone Course should be completed in the final quarter of study; based on scheduling and other factors, students may request permission from the Program Chair to enroll in the Capstone prior to their last quarter.

• MSCS1022 Technical Writing and Analysis for Computer Scientists Part II: Capstone (3)

Start Your Sofia Journey

We understand that enrolling in a university to begin your academic journey is a big step. Our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and identify the right program for you and your career goals. Visit our admissions page to learn more about our simple application process.

If you’re ready to learn more, simply fill out our Request More Information form and we’ll reach out to you. →

+1-888-820-1484
admissions@sofia.edu 

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Master of Science in Computer Science – Master’s in Computer Science in Palo Alto and Costa Mesa, CA

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