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

 

Master's in Computer Science: Power the World

Computing is integral to everything we do. From engineering and medicine to banking and entertainment, every industry engages with the constantly evolving field of computer science.

Computer science also benefits society. It helps charities streamline donations, paves the way for a more equitable world, and predicts and avoids catastrophes.

If you are interested in working in this dynamic field, West Chester University's Master of Science in Computer Science is an excellent place to start.

Through coursework, lab experiences, and hands-on internships, our program trains you to design, develop, and analyze software and hardware while fostering your creativity.

The Department of Computer Science is designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

West Chester University was named a top 10 public university by U.S. News & World Report, and is an active member of the Pennsylvania Association of Computer and Information Science Educators.

 

Master's in Computer Science Program Tracks

Information Systems

The information systems track focuses on the various networks, hardware, and software that are needed to evaluate and interpret data, and will teach you software engineering, security, and administration skills.

Information Assurance

The information assurance track is a multi-disciplined area of practice. It encompasses a wide array of specialty knowledge in areas such as privacy, disaster recovery, business continuity, and wireless programming and security.

Web Technology

If you choose the web technology concentration, you'll learn how computers and systems communicate, connect, and interact with the web. You'll also gain a comprehensive understanding of the most common internet languages: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

 

Benefits of Earning your Master's in Computer Science at West Chester University

Faculty Experts

The faculty members of our computer science program are professionally accomplished experts in their respective specializations. Each member is active in ongoing industry research, including topics such as augmented reality security, malware analysis, information retrieval, cognitive science, and machine learning. They'll work with you to ensure your master's degree is in line with your individual career goals.

Superior Laboratory Classrooms & Multiple Servers

WCU maintains state-of-the-art computer laboratories for the exclusive use of students in the CS program, including 55 Windows-based operating systems and 25 Linux-based systems.

The Department of Computer Sciences also maintains several Linux servers that are available for student and faculty use in the program.

Information Security Center and Industry Advisory Board

The Information Security Center (ISC) provides high quality education and training of information assurance. This is accomplished through teaching, scholarly, and service activities through WCU's collaboration and partnership with industry, public organizations, and other institutions.

The ISC's Industry Advisory Board includes members from a variety of organizations including XDA Developers, Vanguard, Gartner, F5 Networks, Deloitte, Unisys, Microshare, and Parsons Corporation. The Advisory Board guides decisions for the ISC and keeps WCU on top of the latest trends in the marketplace.

Virtual Access

RamCloud is a virtual desktop infrastructure that allows our students, faculty, and staff to access licensed software applications from any device, anywhere, at any time.

Scholarships & Graduate Assistantships

WCU constantly strives to make education more affordable for our students. We've frozen tuition for the last four years and offer different funding options. The Repair the World Scholarship is awarded annually to four students who are earning their master's in computer science. (is this good for multiple years?) Limited graduate assistantships are also available through The Graduate School.

Robust Student Experience

As a student in the master's in computer science program, you'll have ample opportunities for involvement on our campus, including:

• Computer Science Club
• Bin Lu Women in Computer Science
• Competitive Programming Club
• Cybersecurity Club
• Game Development Club
• Upsilon Pi Epsilon International Honor Society

In addition, the Department of Computer Science and the Computer Science Club jointly moderate a Discord server to help facilitate virtual community and discussion outside of our physical CSC classrooms and labs.

 

What Can You Do with a Master of Science in Computer Science?

Exceptional Growth Through 2030

The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth for computer science related roles at 22% through 2030, which is a rate much faster than the average for all occupations.

An Excellent Computer Science Salary

Depending on your level of education, your computer science salary can be well over $100,000. For example, the median salary for information research scientists is $131,490, while a software developer can earn a salary of $153,000.

Computer Science Jobs

With a worldwide reliance on technology, there are nearly endless computer science jobs available, such as:

• Computer network architect: Build communication networks including intranets.
• Software developer: Design, test, and develop applications to improve job effectiveness.
• Computer and information research scientist: Generate and design new computer science approaches.
• Software development engineer: Design, build, and maintain computer systems and software.
• Information security analyst: Protect the integrity of computer systems and information.
• Network and computer systems administrator: Ensure everyday operations are running to optimal capacity.
• Web developer: Design and create websites and optimize site capacity and performance.

Your master's degree will make you a top candidate in your computer science job search.

Where are our graduates?

 

What Will You Study as a Master's in Computer Science Student?

Earning your master's in computer science at West Chester University means you'll have the knowledge, skills, and tools you'll need to succeed.

You'll also have full access to computer science labs and can assist faculty with their research projects.

Internships & Research Opportunities

At WCU, we understand the value of hands-on experience. As a student in the master's degree program, you can choose to participate in diverse internships or take on your own independent research project. Regardless of the path you choose, you'll work to address real-world challenges by applying your classroom and laboratory knowledge.