Computer Science, Master of Science (M.S.)

The Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science at Virginia State University prepares graduate students for leadership roles in research, industry, and academia by combining rigorous theoretical foundations with hands-on experience in high-demand areas of computing. Building upon core principles of algorithms, systems architecture, and data communications, the program integrates advanced topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, extended reality (AR/VR), and emerging software engineering practices.

Typically designed as a two-year program, the MS in Computer Science welcomes applicants from both computer science and non-computer science undergraduate backgrounds. Students without a computer science degree may be required to complete prerequisite coursework before starting graduate-level classes.

Highly qualified students who hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related field may be considered for an accelerated one-year track. This track is research-intensive and requires completion of the thesis option. Selection into this track is competitive and based on factors such as prior academic performance, relevant experience, and faculty recommendations. In past years, students selected for the accelerated one-year track have typically had an undergraduate GPA above 3.5.

Students may choose either a Thesis or Non-Thesis path, providing flexibility for those pursuing research-intensive doctoral preparation or industry-focused applied projects. Through project-based learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industry engagement, graduates develop the technical expertise and problem-solving skills needed to innovate in rapidly evolving technological landscapes.

Program Requirements

The Master of Science degree requires 30 graduate credit hours of course work including a thesis or 33 graduate credit hours of course work including a project. The program is intended to satisfy the need to train professionals with expertise using modern computing tools and cutting-edge technology as well as practical knowledge of theoretical computer science. Students will focus on such areas as data mining, scientific computing, data visualization, or state-of-the-art graphics and animation technologies. Undergraduates are prepared to learn to use the latest advanced applications, while graduates are highly-trained professionals ready to begin work using such applications.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the Graduate Office admission requirements, criteria for non-conditional admission to the program will be set by the Departmental Computer Science Graduate Committee. Applicants are expected to have an understanding of the foundational concepts of computer science and a familiarity with data structures and their implementations in different languages. Additionally, applicants should have an understanding of computer architecture, compilers, operating systems, analysis of algorithms, networks, and programming languages and should expect to learn on their own new programming languages required for the courses in which they enroll.

Core courses

** Restricted Electives - Students who select the Thesis Option must select 12 credit hours from the options below.  Students who select the Non-These Option must select 15 credit hours from the options below.