Columbia University – Online Computer Science Master’s Degree

“The computer science curriculum at Columbia places equal emphasis on theoretical computer science and mathematics and on experimental computer technology. A broad range of upper-level courses is available in such areas as artificial intelligence, computational complexity and the analysis of algorithms, combinatorial methods, computer architecture, computer-aided digital design, computer communications, databases, mathematical models for computation, optimization, and software systems. The Master of Science (M.S.) program is intended for professionals who wish to broaden and deepen their understanding of computer science. The program provides a unique opportunity to develop leading-edge in-depth knowledge of specific computer science disciplines. The department currently offers concentration tracks covering eight such disciplines.”

URL

https://cvn.columbia.edu/program/columbia-university-computer-science-masters-degree-masters-science

Total credit hours

30 credit hours

Concentrations

• Computational Biology – Develop working knowledge of computational techniques and their applications to biomedical research.
• Computer Security – Develop state-of-the-art knowledge of computer and network security technologies.
• Foundations of Computer Science – Develop state-of-the-art knowledge of the theoretical foundations of Computer Science.
• Machine Learning – Develop knowledge of machine learning techniques and applications.
• Natural Language Processing – Develop knowledge and expertise in Natural Language Processing (NLP) technologies and applications.
• Network Systems – Develop state-of-the-art knowledge of network systems technologies and the underlying principles, protocols and algorithms.
• Software Systems – Pursue knowledge of software development and software systems methodologies and technologies.
• Vision, Graphics, Interaction and Robotics – Develop knowledge of computer vision and computer graphics.

Availability

Full-time/part-time

Time to complete

All degree requirements must be completed within five (5) years of the beginning of the first course credited toward the degree.

Tuition per credit

Tuition and fees

Admission requirements

According to Columbia University, to be eligible for the Computer Science Master’s Degree, students must meet the following requirements:

• Degree required for admission: Most candidates have completed an undergraduate degree in computer science. Applicants with degrees in other disciplines and a record of excellence are encouraged to apply; these applicants are required to have completed at least 4 computer science courses covering the foundations of the field and 2 math courses. Examples of computer science courses would be the courses offered through the undergraduate computer science program: Intro to Computer Science (COMS W1004 or COMS W1007), Advanced Programming (COMS W3157), Data Structures and Algorithms (COMS W3134 or W3137), which is a prerequisite for most of our graduate-level courses, or/and Discrete Math (COMS W3203). For the math prereqs, students are encouraged to take linear algebra and differential equations.
• GPA required: Most students admitted have earned a grade point average above 3.5 (out of 4.0); a GPA of at least 3.3 is required.
• GRE requirements: General test required. A subject GRE test is not required but may be helpful in strengthening your application.