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Be on the Cutting Edge
Miami University offers a Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS), which is thesis-based, and a Master of Computer Science (MCS), which is course-based (non-thesis). Both programs emphasize the development of practical skills and technical knowledge to enter a computing profession.
Degree Quick Facts
- Start Terms:
- MSCS: Fall
- MCS: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Program Duration:
- MSCS: 24 Months
- MCS: Can be completed in as little as 12 Months
- Application Deadlines:
- MSCS: Feb. 1
- MCS: June 1, Nov. 1, March 1
Computer Science Stats
M.S. in Computer Science (Thesis Track)
The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) is a thesis-driven program designed to prepare students for computing professions requiring research, invention, and advanced or specialized knowledge. This includes the possible pursuit of a Ph.D. in computer science beyond Miami University.
Students complete and document work on independent research with an experienced faculty advisor and study advanced topics in computer science. Both the hands-on research experience and advanced curriculum ensure students graduate well-equipped to be at the forefront of cutting-edge computer science work. Students admitted to this program are eligible to apply for a limited number of graduate assistantships. These opportunities are competitive, and all decisions are made post-admission. Applications after the deadline are not considered for funding.
Master of Computer Science (Non-Thesis Track)
The Master of Computer Science (MCS) is a project- and coursework-driven graduate program, with each component allowing for a more diverse range of course study. This helps students hone their technical skills and equips them for computing professions beyond research. Students gain experience in high-demand areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering to be adaptable to the workforce.
After building foundational and advanced knowledge, they enroll in a culminating experience requirement, choosing from three options: an internship, project, or capstone course. Students admitted to this program are not eligible for graduate assistantships from the division. Some may be eligible for awards provided by The Graduate School.
Curriculum
The Master of Science in Computer Science program consists of a minimum of 31 credit hours. The program is divided into the following:
Coursework Requirement (18 credit hours minimum):
- A range of 500- and 600-level Computer Science and Engineering courses
Research Requirement (13 credit hours minimum)
- Computer Science Research Methods
- Emerging Topics in Computer Science
- Research for Master’s Thesis
Curriculum
The Master of Computer Science program consists of a minimum of 30 credit hours. The program is divided into the following:
Coursework Requirement (24-27 credit hours)
- A range of 500- and 600-level Computer Science and Engineering courses
Culminating Experience Requirement (3-6 credit hours) choose between:
- Internship
- Non-Thesis Project
- Professional Computing Experience
Why Enroll in Miami University’s Computer Science Programs?
Earn job offers while enrolled:
Students in the computer science master’s programs routinely accept job offers before they earn their graduate degree.
Engage in research with published, award-winning faculty members:
Take small classes, learning from leading professors across key areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer graphics, cryptography, and additional emerging topics in the industry.
Combined Bachelor’s/Master’s Programs
Open to all students regardless of major, the combined Bachelor’s/Master’s allows high-achieving students to simultaneously complete any Miami University bachelor’s degree along with a master’s in either computer science program. With an undergraduate major in computer science or software engineering, students can complete the combined program in five years.
- Students in the combined program will remain undergraduates until either: (a) they complete all undergraduate degree requirements and receive their undergraduate degree, or (b) they request the Graduate School change their status from undergraduate to graduate (the student must have completed a minimum of 124 or 128 total graduate and undergraduate credit hours, depending on their catalog year, to make this request). Once the student meets one of these two criteria, they will be classified as a graduate student. Students may not receive both the undergraduate and graduate degrees on the same date (degrees are conferred four times per year (i.e., January, May, August, December), nor can they take all of their graduate credits with undergraduate status.
- Students in the combined program are eligible to hold a graduate assistantship or graduate grant-in-aid where applicable upon being classified as a graduate student. Students pursuing a Master of Computer Science are not eligible for graduate assistantships.
- Both full-time and part-time students are eligible for this program, but full-time status is recommended.
Combined B.S./M.S. in Computer Science
The B.S./M.S. in Computer Science is a research-focused program. Students may apply to the combined program once they meet the following requirements
- A GPA of 3.25 or greater (after earning a minimum of 64 credit hours)
- To begin graduate study, students should have credit for the following undergraduate courses:
- CSE 174, CSE 201, CSE 271, CSE 274, CSE 278, CSE 374, CSE 381, and CSE 383
- MTH 151, MTH 231, and either STA 261 or STA 301
Combined Bachelor/Master of Computer Science
This combined program allows Miami undergraduate students to pursue a project- and coursework-based master’s degree in an accelerated manner while simultaneously completing a bachelor’s degree. Students admitted to the combined degree program may count six to nine credit hours of their graduate coursework toward their bachelor’s.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements are the same for both programs; however, M.S. in Computer Science applicants should have a mastery of differential and integral calculus in their undergraduate studies. While we do not schedule 1:1 meetings for applicants, applicants can inquire about group meetings by visiting the Graduate Admission Information page.
Admission to the Master of Science in Computer Science and the Master of Computer Science programs requires:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field
- Undergraduate GPA must be a minimum of 3.0
- Completed application
- Recommendation letters
- Two for Master of Computer Science
- Three for Master of Science in Computer Science
- Resume
The GRE test is optional; however, for those who submit scores, minimum expectations include:
- Quantitative score of 60th percentile
- Verbal score of 35th percentile
- Analytical writing score of 25th percentile
International applicants are required to submit their TOEFL/IELTS/PTE/Duolingo scores. Learn about English language proficiency requirements
Applicants must also provide a computer code sample and indicate coursework they have completed which includes Data Structures. Applicants must also upload a personal statement..
Admission and Funding
This is Where Your Journey to Miami University Begins
Explore what it means to be a graduate student at Miami University, where students prepare to go anywhere and everywhere. We’ll be here to help every step of the way as you prepare for college admission, enrollment, and success.
Contact Us
Graduate Admission
513-216-2237
[email protected]
Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering
McVey Data Science Building 262
Oxford, OH 45056
513-529-0340
[email protected]