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.
Instructors:
English
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 Master of Science (MSc)?
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
The Foundations of Data Structures and Algorithms pathway covers essential concepts in algorithm design and analysis, focusing on dynamic programming and greedy algorithms, which are fundamental for solving optimization problems. It also introduces approximation algorithms and linear programming techniques, valuable for addressing real-world computational challenges, and delves into advanced data structures, RSA algorithms, and quantum algorithms to enhance problem-solving skills in complex computing environments. The Network Systems Principles and Practice pathway offers a comprehensive understanding of network systems, beginning with foundational networking concepts and progressing to hands-on practice with Linux networking and cloud networking, equipping students with practical knowledge of modern networking systems. The Machine Learning pathway introduces students to core concepts of supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and deep learning, enabling them to apply machine learning techniques to real-world data and problems. In the Computing & Ethics and Society pathway, students explore the intersection of computing and ethics, examining foundational ethical issues in artificial intelligence and computing applications, as well as the professional ethics required in the tech industry. Lastly, the Foundations of Autonomous Systems pathway focuses on the modeling, requirement specifications, and verification of autonomous systems, providing students with a solid foundation for designing and evaluating these advanced technologies. Together, these pathways offer a well-rounded curriculum that prepares students for careers in various domains of computer science, from algorithms and machine learning to network systems, ethical computing, and autonomous technologies.
Foundations of Data Structures and Algorithms Pathway: (CSCA 5414 Dynamic Programming/ Greedy Algorithms; CSCA 5424 Approximation Algorithms and Linear Programming; CSCA 5454 Advanced Data Structures/ RSA and Quantum Algorithms)
Network Systems Principles and Practice: (CSCA 5063 Network Systems Foundation CSCA 5073 Network Principles in Practice: Linux Networking
CSCA 5083 Network Principles in Practice: Cloud Networking)
Machine Learning: (CSCA 5622 Introduction to Machine Learning - Supervised Learning; CSCA 5632 Unsupervised Algorithms in Machine Learning; CSCA 5642 Introduction to Deep Learning)
Computing & Ethics and Society: (CSCA 5214 Computing/Ethics and Society Foundations; CSCA 5224 Ethical Issues in AI and Professional Ethics; CSCA 5234 Ethical Issues in Computing Applications)
Foundations of Autonomous Systems: (CSCA 5834 Modeling of Autonomous Systems; CSCA 5844 Requirement Specifications for Autonomous Systems; CSCA 5854 Verification and Synthesis of Autonomous Systems)
Elective Courses
The Data Mining Foundations and Practice pathway offers an in-depth exploration of the data mining process, beginning with an understanding of the data mining pipeline and progressing to advanced methods and practical project applications. Students gain hands-on experience in extracting valuable insights from large datasets, preparing them for real-world data mining tasks. The Data Visualization pathway covers the fundamentals of presenting data effectively through visual means, enabling students to create compelling visual narratives that make complex data easier to understand. The Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction pathway provides essential knowledge in designing and testing user interfaces, with a particular focus on emerging technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence, offering students a comprehensive skill set in designing user-centered technologies. The Introduction to Robotics with Webots pathway covers essential robotic concepts, from basic behaviors and odometry to mapping, trajectory generation, and path planning, equipping students with the tools to design and control autonomous robots. The Natural Language Processing pathway delves into the fundamental and advanced aspects of processing and analyzing human language, incorporating deep learning techniques to improve language models and address common challenges in NLP. The Generative AI pathway introduces students to the rapidly evolving field of generative artificial intelligence, from the basics of creating AI models to exploring modern applications and cutting-edge advancements in the field. The Internet Policy pathway addresses critical issues in digital policy, including net neutrality, privacy protection, and cybersecurity, equipping students with an understanding of the regulatory landscape surrounding the internet. The Introduction to Computer Vision pathway offers students the opportunity to learn about the foundational techniques in computer vision, as well as advanced topics such as deep learning and computer vision applications in generative AI. The Software Architecture for Big Data pathway explores the architecture required for managing and processing massive datasets, teaching students fundamental patterns and practices for building scalable and efficient data systems. Lastly, the Object-Oriented Analysis and Design pathway focuses on the core principles and patterns of object-oriented design, emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical application to develop robust and scalable software systems. Together, these pathways provide students with a well-rounded and comprehensive education in cutting-edge areas of computer science, preparing them for successful careers in technology, data science, and artificial intelligence.
Data Mining Foundations and Practice: (CSCA 5502 Data Mining Pipeline; CSCA 5512 Data Mining Methods; CSCA 5522 Data Mining Project)
Data Visualization: (CSCA 5702 Fundamentals of Data Visualization)
Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction: (CSCA 5859 Ideating and Prototyping Interfaces; CSCA 5869 User Interface Testing and Usability; CSCA 5879 Emerging Topics in HCI: Designing for VR/ AR/ AI)
Introduction to Robotics with Webots: (CSCA 5312 Basic Robotic Behaviors and Odometry; CSCA 5332 Robotic Mapping and Trajectory Generation; CSCA 5342 Robotic Path Planning and Task Execution)
Natural Language Processing: (CSCA 5832 Fundamentals of Natural Language Processing; CSCA 5842 Deep Learning for Natural Language Processing; CSCA 5852 Model and Error Analysis for Natural Language Processing)
Generative AI: (CSCA 5112 Introduction to Generative AI; CSCA 5122 Modern Applications of Generative AI; CSCA 5132 Advances in Generative AI)
Internet Policy: (CSCA 5433 When to Regulate? The Digital Divide and Net Neutrality; CSCA 5443 Protecting Individual Privacy on the Internet; CSCA 5453 Cybersecurity in Crisis: Information and Internet Security)
Introduction to Computer Vision: (CSCA 5222 Introduction to Computer Vision; CSCA 5322 Deep Learning for Computer Vision; CSCA 5422 Computer Vision for Generative AI)
Software Architecture for Big Data: (CSCA 5008 Fundamentals of Software Architecture for Big Data; CSCA 5018 Software Architecture Patterns for Big Data; CSCA 5028 Applications of Software Architecture for Big Data)
Object Oriented Analysis and Design: (CSCA 5428 Object-Oriented Analysis and Design: Foundations and Concepts; CSCA 5438 Object-Oriented Analysis and Design: Patterns and Principles; CSCA 5448 Object-Oriented Analysis and Design: Practice and Architecture)
Tailored Learner Journeys and other CU Boulder Courses
Certain courses are not applicable to the Master of Science in Computer Science (MS-CS) requirements, including those that focus on specific areas such as cybersecurity for data science, ethical issues within the field of data science, and foundational algorithms related to searching, sorting, and indexing, as well as trees and graphs. Additionally, courses that focus on deep learning applications in computer vision are also excluded from fulfilling the MS-CS requirements. However, students have the flexibility to take credits from other programs, including the Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (ME-EM), the Master of Science in Data Science (MS-DS), and the Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MS-EE), to enhance their academic experience and gain specialized knowledge in these fields.
The following courses cannot be applied to MS-CS requirements: (DTSA 5302 Cybersecurity for Data Science; DTSA 5303 Ethical Issues in Data Science; DTSA 5501 Algorithms for Searching; Sorting
and Indexing
DTSA 5502 Trees and Graphs: Basics; DTSA 5707 Deep Learning Applications for Computer Vision)
Credits can be taken from: (Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (ME-EM); Master of Science in Data Science (MS-DS); Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MS-EE))
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.
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.
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
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
Duration:
24 Months
₹ 13,07,250
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
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.
Distinguished Operations Research Scholar and Game Theory Expert
Sriram Sankaranarayanan serves as an Assistant Professor in the Production and Quantitative Methods area at IIM Ahmedabad, where he also co-chairs the Brij Disa Centre for Data Science and AI. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University under the guidance of Prof. Sauleh Siddiqui and Prof. Amitabh Basu, followed by a post-doctoral fellowship at Polytechnique Montréal's Canada Excellence Research Chair in Data Science. His research focuses on complex game-theoretic and optimization problems, particularly in mixed-integer linear programming and bilevel programming, with applications in energy market policies and climate change initiatives. Before academia, he gained practical experience at Deutsche Bank, developing models for Credit Default Swaps and Swaptions trading. His contributions to the field were recently recognized with the Vidya Varidhi Educational Foundation Outstanding Researcher of the Year Award at IIM Ahmedabad in March 2024
Testimonials
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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
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.
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.
Instructors
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.
Distinguished Operations Research Scholar and Game Theory Expert
Sriram Sankaranarayanan serves as an Assistant Professor in the Production and Quantitative Methods area at IIM Ahmedabad, where he also co-chairs the Brij Disa Centre for Data Science and AI. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University under the guidance of Prof. Sauleh Siddiqui and Prof. Amitabh Basu, followed by a post-doctoral fellowship at Polytechnique Montréal's Canada Excellence Research Chair in Data Science. His research focuses on complex game-theoretic and optimization problems, particularly in mixed-integer linear programming and bilevel programming, with applications in energy market policies and climate change initiatives. Before academia, he gained practical experience at Deutsche Bank, developing models for Credit Default Swaps and Swaptions trading. His contributions to the field were recently recognized with the Vidya Varidhi Educational Foundation Outstanding Researcher of the Year Award at IIM Ahmedabad in March 2024
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.
Admission is based on performance in three preliminary courses - no formal application needed
The program can be completed in 24 months full-time, with up to 8 years allowed for completion
Students have access to weekly office hours, online resources, and career services