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Master of Science in Computer Science - CU Boulder

The Master of Science in Computer Science from CU Boulder offers a comprehensive online education combining core CS fundamentals with interdisciplinary electives. This flexible 30-credit program covers algorithms, machine learning, network systems while allowing specialization through electives in electrical engineering, engineering management, and data science.

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  • Course Start Date:

    Starting Soon

  • Application Deadline:

    3rd october 2025

  • Duration:

    24 Months

13,07,250

Overview

This fully online Master of Science in Computer Science program from CU Boulder combines theoretical foundations with practical applications. Ranked in the top 1% globally by CWUR, the program offers 30 credit hours of coursework accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Students gain expertise in core computer science areas while having the flexibility to specialize through interdisciplinary electives.

Why MSc (Master of Science)?

The MS-CS program stands out through its performance-based admission process, eliminating traditional barriers like academic history requirements. The curriculum is created by faculty with extensive research and industry expertise, offering a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Students benefit from CU Boulder's global reputation and innovative online learning environment.

What does this course have to offer?

Key Highlights

  • Fully accredited by Higher Learning Commission

  • Flexible online format with 8-week courses

  • Pay-as-you-go tuition structure

  • Interdisciplinary elective options

  • No application required - admission based on performance

  • Expert faculty with research and industry experience

  • Virtual collaboration opportunities

Who is this programme for?

  • Working professionals seeking advanced CS expertise

  • Software developers looking to expand their theoretical knowledge

  • Those interested in interdisciplinary tech applications

  • Students seeking flexible online learning

  • Professionals wanting to specialize in specific CS areas

Minimum Eligibility

  • Bachelor's degree (recommended)

  • Strong CS foundation through academics or work

  • Programming and software development experience

  • Knowledge of linear algebra, discrete math, probability and statistics

Who is the programme for?

The admission process is uniquely performance-based, requiring completion of three preliminary courses with a grade of B or better. No formal application is needed. The program consists of 30 credit hours, with courses delivered in 8-week sessions. Students can complete the degree in 24 months full-time or take up to 8 years part-time.

Important Dates

Selection process

How to apply?

Curriculum

The curriculum combines core computer science courses with interdisciplinary electives. Core areas include algorithms, machine learning, and network systems. Students can choose electives from electrical engineering, engineering management, or data science to customize their learning path. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications.

There are 3 semesters in this course

The MS-CS program comprises 30 credit hours of coursework divided between core computer science subjects and electives. Core courses establish fundamental knowledge in algorithms, machine learning, and network systems. The elective curriculum allows students to explore specialized areas including human-computer interaction, robotics, natural language processing, and autonomous systems. Additional elective options from electrical engineering, engineering management, and data science programs enable interdisciplinary specialization.

Breadth Courses

Elective Courses

Tailored Learner Journeys and other CU Boulder Courses

Programme Length

The program is designed to be completed in 24 months of full-time study. Students have the flexibility to take courses at their own pace, with a maximum completion time of 8 years. Courses are delivered in 8-week sessions with six enrollment periods per year.

Whom you will learn from?

Learn from top industry experts who bring real-world experience and deep knowledge to every lesson. The instructors are dedicated to help you achieve your goals with practical insights and hands-on guidance.

Instructors

Bobby Schnabel
Bobby Schnabel

4.9 rating

18 Reviews

4,838 Students

4 Courses

Distinguished Leader in Computer Science and Education

Bobby Schnabel is a Professor and External Chair of Computer Science at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he also serves as the Faculty Director for Entrepreneurship in the College of Engineering and Applied Science. He previously held the role of CEO of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) from 2015 to 2017 and was Dean of the School of Informatics and Computing at Indiana University from 2007 to 2015. Schnabel was part of the Computer Science faculty at CU Boulder from 1977 to 2007, during which time he served as CS department chair from 1990 to 1995, associate dean for academic affairs from 1995 to 1997, founding director of the ATLAS Institute from 1997 to 2007, and vice provost for academic and campus computing and Chief Information Officer from 1998 to 2007. He is a co-founder of the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) and remains active on its executive team. Additionally, he co-founded the AAAI/ACM Conference on AI, Ethics and Society and chairs the ACM task force on ethics in computing education.

Sriram Sankaranarayanan
Sriram Sankaranarayanan

4.7 rating

156 Reviews

76,062 Students

5 Courses

Professor

Sriram Sankaranarayanan is a professor of Computer Science at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he teaches a variety of courses on algorithms, theory of computation, mathematical optimization and programming languages. His research studies how computers can be used to verify and design other computer systems by combining ideas from mathematical logic, theory of computation and control theory. He uses these to analyze "safety-critical" systems ranging from autonomous vehicles to artificial pancreas devices for patients with type-1 diabetes. Sriram obtained a PhD in computer science from Stanford University. Subsequently he worked as a research staff member at NEC research labs in Princeton, NJ. He has been on the faculty at CU Boulder since 2009. Sriram has been the recipient of awards including the CAREER award from NSF, and the Provost's faculty achievement award at CU Boulder.

Tuition Fee

The total program cost is $15,750 USD (₹1,307,250). Tuition is charged at $525 per credit hour with a pay-as-you-go structure. Students only pay for courses in their upcoming session, with no hidden fees or penalties for taking breaks between sessions. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available.

Fee Structure

Payment options

Financial Aid

Learning Experience

Students experience a collaborative online learning environment through lecture videos, hands-on projects, and regular interaction with instructors and peers. Weekly office hours with course facilitators provide additional support. The program uses discussion boards and group sessions to facilitate peer learning and networking.

University Experience

Students gain access to CU Boulder's online resources including digital libraries, career services, and alumni services. While the program is fully online, graduates receive the same degree as on-campus students and are welcome to attend the on-campus graduation ceremony. Students receive an IdentiKey for accessing university systems and can obtain a physical student ID card.

Testimonials

Testimonials and success stories are a testament to the quality of this program and its impact on your career and learning journey. Be the first to help others make an informed decision by sharing your review of the course.

University

About the University

The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is a public research university located in Boulder, Colorado. Established in 1876, it is the flagship institution of the University of Colorado system and serves approximately 36,680 students, including around 27,665 undergraduates and 5,581 graduate students. CU Boulder offers over 150 academic programs across nine colleges and schools, with notable strengths in engineering, business, environmental sciences, and the arts.The university is classified as an R1 institution, indicating very high research activity, and has garnered over $634 million in research funding annually. CU Boulder is known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, regularly ranking among the top universities in the United States for its environmental initiatives.

#108

QS World University Ranking

36,680

Total Enrollment

84%

Acceptance Rate

Affiliation & Recognition

Association of American Universities

Association of American Universities

Faculties

These are the expert instructors who will be teaching you throughout the course. With a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience, they're here to guide, inspire, and support you every step of the way. Get to know the people who will help you reach your learning goals and make the most of your journey.

Instructors

Al Pisano
Al Pisano

4.3 rating

8 Reviews

3,898 Students

1 Course

Versatile Expert in Education and Corporate Development

Al possesses extensive and diverse experience in both educational and corporate sectors, demonstrating success as a presenter, thought leader, author, innovator, entrepreneur, and administrator at both K-12 and higher education levels. His work spans collaborations with K-12 school districts, higher education institutions, non-profits, and corporate education arms, focusing on culture transformation and visionary leadership. Al is skilled in curriculum and program analysis, adaptation, creation, and development.

Alan Lester
Alan Lester

4.8 rating

7 Reviews

1,967 Students

1 Course

Dynamic Geoscientist and Educator

Dr. Alan Lester is a distinguished figure with a multifaceted background that spans various fields. A celebrated rock climber in the 1990s, he achieved first ascents from the Colorado mountains to Yosemite National Park, which naturally led him to pursue geology at the University of Oregon, culminating in a Ph.D. from the University of Colorado, Boulder. His research focuses on utilizing advanced technologies such as paleomagnetism, stable isotopes, trace elements, and radiometric dating to explore the origin and evolution of the Rocky Mountains. Since the mid-1990s, Alan has held multiple roles at CU-Boulder, including Senior Instructor and Research Associate, earning numerous awards for his excellence in undergraduate education. Recently, he has concentrated on geoscience education with an emphasis on the history of science. Additionally, Alan has been a part-time commercial airline pilot for over a decade, providing a unique aerial perspective that enriches his teaching. This diverse experience contributes to his engaging storytelling ability, making his video lectures a vital component of his courses.

Career services

The University of Colorado Boulder offers comprehensive career services designed to support students in their professional development. These services include personalized career counseling, workshops on resume writing and interview preparation, as well as access to job fairs featuring top employers across various sectors. CU Boulder emphasizes experiential learning through internships that allow students to gain practical experience while studying. The Career Services office maintains partnerships with numerous organizations to facilitate internship placements aligned with students' career goals. Additionally, online resources are available that include job listings and career advice articles.

91%

Placement Rate

$50,000

Average Salary After Graduation

Top Recruiters

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Degree Course Image
  • Course Start Date:

    Starting Soon

  • Application Deadline:

    3rd october 2025

  • Duration:

    24 Months

13,07,250

Frequently asked questions

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about this course. We aim to provide clear and concise answers to help you better understand the course content, structure, and any other relevant information. If you have any additional questions or if your question is not listed here, please don't hesitate to reach out to our support team for further assistance.