myCSUSM
Application Deadlines
Applications to the Master of Science in Computer Science program are reviewed on a rolling basis; apply at any time! However, priority is given to applications that are received by this deadline:
- Spring 2026: Nov. 12, 2025
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the MS in Computer Science program you must complete the requirements listed below.
- Academic Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related field from a regionally accredited university with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Applicants from non-CS backgrounds must demonstrate proficiency in core CS areas (see below)
- Prerequisite requirements:
- MATH 270 Basic Discrete Mathematics
- CS 311 Data Structures and Algorithms
- CS 351 Programming Languages
- GRE not required; may be optionally submitted
- Statement of Purpose
- 1-2 pages describing applicant's academic background, professional goals and motivation for pursuing the MS program
- Recommended Submissions
- Résumé or CV (optional): Including applicant's academic background, relevant work experience and technical skills.
- Letters of recommendation (optional): These letters should provide insights into the applicant's academic abilities, work ethic and character.
- English Proficiency Requirements
An international applicant is a student who wishes to study at our university on an F-1 (student) visa, who has received a post-secondary degree from a regionally accredited college or university within the United States or outside the United States that meets our accreditation standards. For international students or domestic students with international coursework, you must provide scores for an English proficiency test, unless you possess a bachelor's degree from a post-secondary institution where English was the principal language of instruction.
Connect with a Specialist
Set up an appointment with your enrollment specialist to learn how you can take advantage of the MS in Computer Science program.
Sujeith Ordonez, M.A.
Senior Outreach & Recruitment Specialist
CSUSM Extended Learning
(760) 750-8454
Funding Options
The computer science master's degree program is eligible for financial aid.
Visit the funding page or call 760-750-4850 to learn more about your funding options. Active-duty military, veterans and dependents should visit the military services page or call 760-750-8705.
Federal VA educational benefits can be used for this program (not eligible for Cal Vet fee waiver).
FUNDING OPTIONS
Visit the funding page or call 760-750-4850 to learn more about your funding options. Active-duty military, veterans and dependents should visit the military services page or call 760-750-8705.
Federal VA educational benefits can be used for this program (not eligible for Cal Vet fee waiver).
FUNDING OPTIONS
Program Costs
Complete the MS in Computer Science in just four consecutive semesters, thanks to guaranteed class availability that ensures no delays in your educational journey. The program consists of 30 units, priced at $875 per unit.
Invest In Your Future: A Breakdown of Your Master's Degree Cost
| Semester | Units | Subtotal* |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 9 | $7,875 |
| Semester 2 | 9 | $7,875 |
| Semester 3 | 9 | $7,875 |
| Semester 4 | 3 | $2,625 |
| Total | 30 | $26,250 |
*Not all university semester fees are included in this table—see the comprehensive breakdown of Extended Learning fees. Semester tuition subtotals are based on a sample program sequence. All quoted tuition rates are based on previous academic years and are subject to change without notice.
Courses
This master’s program has a set schedule of courses that you are expected to follow as part of your cohort.
Sample Fall Start Schedule:
Fall Semester 1
- CS 542: Design Patterns and Object Oriented Analysis
Studies object-oriented analysis and design and their roles in software development. Many documented patterns in program designs will be introduced and analyzed. Advanced topics in software engineering such as software metrics, software architecture and software reuse are also discussed. A core course in the Computer Science M.S. program. Undergraduates must obtain consent of instructor to enroll.
3 units
- CS 537: Data Communication and Computer Networks
Introduces TCP/IP network architecture with emphasis on upper-layer protocols and a detailed investigation into TCP and IP. It also covers local area networks, internetworking, and network programming
3 units
- CS 512: Introduction to Data Mining
Illustrates the process of analyzing data from different perspectives and summarizing it into useful information so as to increase revenue, or cut costs. Introduces Data Mining software analytical tools that are used for analyzing data. Tools allow users to analyze data from many different dimensions or angles, categorize the data, and summarize the relationships identified.
3 units
Spring Semester 1
- CS 571: Artificial Intelligence
A comprehensive study of basic concepts techniques and a number of detailed algorithms used by researchers and practitioners of artificial intelligence. Subjects covered include problem-solving, knowledge representation and reasoning, planning, uncertainty reasoning and decision-making, machine-learning, and natural language processing.
3 units
- CS 513: Analysis and Intractability of Algorithms
Study of algorithms; efficient, optimal algorithms and analysis for best, worst, and average performance; computational complexity theory; algorithmic time and space bounds; levels of intractability including polynomial-time reducibility, NP-complete and NP-hard problems, and Co-NP; applications.
3 units
- Any 400/500/600 level elective3 units
Summer Semester 1
- CS 643: Advanced Database Management Systems
Advanced data models such as object-oriented databases, distributed databases, deductive databases, and multimedia databases, abstractions, dependencies, normalizations, query optimizations, implementations, languages, database machines, and other advanced topics.
3 units
- Any 400/500/600 level elective3 units
- Any 400/500/600 level elective3 units
Lead the Computer Science Revolution
APPLY NOW