Demand for computer and IT professionals is increasing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an average of 377,500 computer and tech positions will open each year between now and 2032. The overall outlook for computer occupations projects a 14% growth in demand by 2032, but some specialties will grow even faster. For instance, computer and information scientists will see 23% growth.
A Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) is a logical option to prepare for opportunities in these lucrative and in-demand computer specialties. You can explore computer science degree options, such as accessible and flexible online programs, to find one that fits your needs and current schedule. All in all, there’s a lot to consider when deciding which one you’d like to pursue and you likely want answers to your questions about earning an MSCS.
Here’s how to assess these online programs to find the best school for you.
Things to Know: What You Should Ask When Comparing Online MS in Computer Science Programs
There are several factors to take into account when trying to find the right master’s in computer science program. We will explore considerations such as finding the best program format, seeing if you’ll have access to the necessary resources, and ensuring the subject matter fits with your professional plans. We’ll take a closer look at these and other factors to consider when assessing if a particular MSCS program fits your needs.
The Format: When and How Will I Learn?
No two online programs are the same, even if the subject matter is similar. For instance, online programs may utilize different formats. Some schools offer asynchronous classes, which allow students to review materials and complete assignments in their own time. Other universities may have live or synchronous online classes, requiring you to log in at a specific time and interact with the instructor and other students.
Think about which format works best for you, and research the weekly time requirement for each class so that you can decide if you can balance studying with your other responsibilities and commitments.
In Tulane University’s MS in Computer Science program, you’ll have a synchronous component. This includes scheduled virtual classes where you can interact with instructors and other students, as well as independent projects you can complete at your own pace. Either way, class sizes are small, so you can easily engage with others during your coursework.
Additionally, you can vary your workload by taking more or fewer credits during the semester. We suggest using the guideline of two to three hours per credit per week spent on homework to calculate your overall time commitment for a course.
The Coursework: What Will I Learn?
A degree is important for formalizing your computer science knowledge, but you should also ensure you learn the necessary skills for your professional plans. Certain specialized subjects — such as algorithm creation, natural language processing, AI, and computational geometry — are important for being competitive in today’s tech job marketplace.
At Tulane, we offer a well-rounded curriculum that covers essential subjects like operating systems, artificial intelligence, and computer networks. You can then tailor your education to your specific interests and plans by choosing from the list of electives.
For instance, if you want to specialize in cybersecurity, you might select an information security source, or you could choose natural language processing or data science. Electives also allow you to combine subjects to fit your exact professional plans.
The Faculty: Who Will I Learn From?
Instructors are important in every class. You want teachers with the skills to impart knowledge. In a master’s degree program, you also want your instructors to be experts with practical knowledge and experience in the subject they teach. These qualities are very important because you want to be able to apply your knowledge in the workplace.
In an online environment, it can sometimes be difficult to tell if faculty have the expertise you expect from a master’s degree program. Brick-and-mortar universities like Tulane that also offer online programs maintain the same standard for in-person and online instructors. Faculty at the university teach, perform research, and publish in their area of expertise. This ensures students not only get expert instruction but also get it from people who are actively innovating in their specialty.
The Option to Specialize: Can I Personalize My Path?
Computer science and information technology are broad fields. A bachelor’s degree program provides a solid knowledge base, but a master’s degree gives you the chance to specialize. To ensure your education helps you achieve your career goals, consider looking for a program that lets you personalize your curriculum.
At Tulane, you take core courses that cover master ’s-level computer science requirements and set the stage for specialization. Then, you can use electives to specialize in areas as diverse as data science, natural language processing, and information security. Electives also allow you to combine different subjects to create a program that meets your exact plans.
The Resources: How Will I Be Supported?
Postgraduate studies are challenging. It’s important to have access to a support system and the resources you need to succeed in your studies. Support systems are often built into in-person programs at universities, but they can be more difficult to find in remote learning environments.
Again, brick-and-mortar universities have an edge when it comes to offering support for students in online programs. Tulane’s online MS in Computer Science program offers small class sizes that allow for easy interaction with faculty and other students. Professors offer regular office hours so that you can gain insights, ask questions, and get the additional help you need to succeed. There are also options for financial aid if you’re in need of any financial support.
The Outcome: What Are My Career Options?
Your choice of an online computer science master’s degree program should always be informed by your end goal. Your degree program should have the classes that help prepare you to move into your chosen specialty or advance your career to a senior or leadership role.
Make a clear assessment of what you can do with the computer science master’s degree program from each university. Then, choose the school that gives you the knowledge you need to achieve your goals, whatever they may be.
The Criteria: What Are the Admissions Requirements?
In addition, you need to make practical considerations a part of your master’s degree program research, including admissions requirements. This will help ensure your program is the right fit for you from the very beginning.
You may ask questions such as, “Does computer science require math?” and “Do I need to get a computer science undergraduate degree first?” Ultimately, the answers to those questions will depend on the specific program. MSCS requirements can vary between schools but can include criteria such as having a STEM-related bachelor’s degree or a grade-point average above a certain threshold.
To be eligible for Tulane’s MSCS program, applicants are encouraged to have a 3.0 GPA from their undergraduate studies. You aren’t required to have a computer-related bachelor’s degree, though it is beneficial to have some familiarity with elementary programming languages. The university does offer a bridge course that provides you with the computer and IT basics you need to take the core courses in the MSCS master’s program.
Considering Tulane? Learn More About Our Online MSCS Degree
Tulane’s online master’s of science in computer science has many of the elements you would want from a postgraduate degree program. In addition to the chance to specialize, choose courses based on your career goals, and learn from expert faculty members, you will have access to many of the same resources and a similar level of support that you would get from an in-person program.
You can get started by beginning the admissions process or speaking with an enrollment advisor, who can answer your questions and give you insights into the application process. This is the first step on your path to a computer-related career or an in-demand tech specialty.