M.S. in Computer Science

Two students from Georgia Southern's M.S. in Computer Science program discuss hardware connected to a computer with a faculty member.

Learn the language of technology and prepare for in-demand jobs in some of the fastest-growing sectors of today’s economy.

Locations

  • Statesboro Campus (In Person or Hybrid)
  • Online

Why Earn a Master’s in Computer Science at Georgia Southern?

  • Advance in a profession with great pay and high demand.
  • One of the most affordable computer science programs in Georgia.
  • Personalized learning with small class sizes.
  • Hands-on experience for job-ready skills.
  • 30 credit hours to completion.

Computer technology drives society forward and enables some of today’s most exciting developments. In the Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science program at Georgia Southern University, you’ll master the principles of computation and their applications in a variety of areas, from algorithms to databases, as you prepare to enter a field of exploding opportunity.

You’ll study in smaller classes with access to our expert faculty, benefitting from abundant lab and research activities to build real-world experience. A choice of four strategic specializations allows you to delve deeper into high-demand areas powering today’s tech economy.

With flexible study options ranging from fully online to hybrid to in-person learning, you’ll find a path that’s right for you, whether you’re jumping into a master’s program right after your bachelor’s degree or are a working professional ready to take your career to the next level.

Ready to Apply?

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What Can You Do With a Master’s in Computer Science?

The modern economy stands upon computer technology — from the networks powering businesses to the software and hardware behind computers and smart devices. Your skills and expertise in these areas translate into diverse opportunities in every sector, from government agencies to business to education. With a master’s degree, you’ll see even more demand. Graduates from this program earn about 30% more than those only holding a bachelor’s degree.

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Median annual salary for computer scientists. (BLS)

%

Projected rate of growth in computer scientist positions — much faster than average. (BLS)

Expected number of new positions in this field through 2032. (BLS)

Where our graduates work:

  • Ahold Delhaize
  • Altera Digital Health
  • Coforge
  • Data Bid Machine
  • Deloitte
  • DISH Network
  • Expedia Group
  • General Motors
  • Gulfstream Aerospace
  • Lincoln Financial Group
  • Microsoft
  • Northrop Grumman
  • Samsung Electronics America
  • United States Air Force
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration

What our graduates do:

  • Computer and information systems manager
  • Cybersecurity analyst
  • Database administrator
  • Information security manager
  • Network administrator
  • Network architect
  • Software development engineer
  • Systems administrator

Help Create Tomorrow’s Tech

Get an overview of Georgia Southern’s computer science program, including how we prepare students to disrupt and drive an industry built upon innovation.

What You’ll Learn

In the program core, build a foundation in essential domains of computer science, like algorithms and databases, and get up to speed on cutting-edge disciplines, including artificial intelligence and machine learning. 

Then, select a specialization to focus your learning in an area that aligns with your interests and career goals, customizing your experience through a choice of courses and electives.

To complete the program, you can develop a thesis to prepare for further studies or undertake a research project to highlight your more nuanced problem-solving skills.

See the Curriculum

Specializations

Build your abilities in an area aligned with your career goals, increasing your competitiveness in some of the job market’s most sought-after areas.

Software Engineering

Engineer applications and software environments to solve complex problems. Explore the process of software development, including requirements, design, implementation, testing and maintenance.

Software and Cyber Security

Develop your expertise in one of computer science’s rapidly expanding disciplines. Examine principles and processes for protecting personal and financial data, computer infrastructure, cloud-based systems and more.

Machine Learning

Prepare to create and deploy programs that emulate human intelligence by learning from data and developing new capabilities without explicit instructions.

Data and Knowledge Systems

Acquire skills and understanding in data mining, data warehousing and related topics to prepare for roles in business intelligence and big data analysis.

Research

Whether for a thesis or an applied research project, you’ll develop a solution to a real-world challenge and have a chance to use Georgia Southern’s advanced facilities.

A student in Georgia Southern's M.S. in Computer Science program explores circuit boards and more hardware components.

Want to Learn More?

Explore essential information about our MS in Computer Science program, including application details, accreditation status, and licensing disclosures. Gain insight into the program’s credibility and requirements to help you start your journey toward success with the knowledge you need.

Applicants for the M.S. in Computer Science program must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) and should generally have a background in computer science. This can consist of a B.S. in Computer Science or a related field (computer engineering, information technology, information systems, software engineering, etc.) or at least two years of relevant professional experience in computing.

To apply, please submit:

  • An online application. (There is a $50 non-refundable application fee.)
  • Official general GRE scores.
  • Transcripts for all prior college-level work. Copies can be uploaded with your application; official copies sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions will be required for admitted students.

For international applicants, the following additional requirements apply:

  • You will need to have a cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.
  • You must submit a minimum TOEFL score of 80 (internet-based). The TOEFL will be waived for international applicants who have graduated from a U.S. college or university.
  • If admitted, you must enroll in the hybrid or in-person program in order to be in compliance with your F-1 visa status.
  • International transcripts must be evaluated by a NACES-accredited evaluation service and must be a course-by-course evaluation and include a GPA. (naces.org)

Application Deadlines

Students are admitted to begin in the fall, spring and summer terms. 

Fall: July 15

Spring: Nov. 15

Summer: April 30

Your application and all required documents must be received by the deadline.

Provisional Admission

Applicants who meet most (but not all) of the regular admission requirements may be admitted on a provisional basis. Applicants granted provisional admission must earn grades of “B” or higher in the courses taken under the provisional admission status. Any other conditions of provisional admission will be stated in the admission letter. 

Applicants with such admission status may take graduate-level courses counting toward the M.S. degree requirements. It is every student’s responsibility to satisfy their conditions of admission as soon as possible after acceptance.

Contact Information

Dr. Andrew A. Allen, Ph.D.

Computer Science Department Chair

Associate Professor

Graduate Program Coordinator

computersciences@georgiasouthern.edu

912-478-5351

Apply Now

Prepare for where you’re going. Start from wherever you are. At Georgia Southern, enjoy the flexibility of fully online courses that fit within your busy schedule, allowing you to study while you continue to work and earn. Online instructors weave interactive experiences into each course, ensuring you engage at a deeper level. 

Our hybrid option lets you complete some courses online and others in the classroom for an education tailored to your unique needs.

For All Online Programs

Federal law requires colleges and universities to make certain disclosures to prospective students of these programs. These disclosures include information on the University’s authority to operate outside of Georgia, complaint processes, adverse actions, and refunds.
For required disclosures in general with regard to online programs offered by the University, visit the Office of Legal Affairs website.

About Our Online Programs

Related Programs

Georgia Southern students in caps and gowns sit in the audience during commencement

Take the Next Step

You’ve already built a career in a thriving, rapidly growing industry, so plan your next move with a master’s in computer science from Georgia Southern.

Contact Us

Program Director

Dr. Andrew Allen
Phone:912-478-5898
Email:andrewallen@georgiasouthern.edu

MSCS Advisor

Dr. Andrew Allen
Phone: 912-478-5898
Email: mscs@georgiasouthern.edu

Graduate AdmissionsPhone: 912-478-5384
Fax: 912-478-0740
Email: gradadmissions@georgiasouthern.edu