Forbes Advisor Best Online Masterβs in Computer Science Options
| College | Best For | Average Graduate Tuition and Fees Per Year (in-state) | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Return on Investment | $15,570 | 92% | |
| Best for IT Careers | $65,956 | 95% | |
| Most Flexible Online Option | $18,837 | 85% | |
| Best Value for Texas Residents | $12,012 | 88% | |
| Most Selective Admissions | $56,279 | 95% | |
| Best Graduation Rate | $54,462 | 96% | |
| Best Value for North Carolina Residents | $11,819 | 85% | |
| Best for Non-CS STEM Professionals | $68,128 | 92% | |
| Best Open Admissions Program | $12,646 | 88% | |
| Best for Military Students | $12,042 | 47% |
Why Georgia Institute of Technology Ranks as No. 1
At just $225 per credit for both in-state and out-of-state students, the Georgia Institute of Technologyβs online computer science masterβs program offers extraordinary affordability. And with the highest median salary 10 years after graduation on our listβ$102,772βGeorgia Tech grads can expect an outstanding return on their educational investment.
Designed for learners with strong undergraduate backgrounds in computer science, this program features six specializations, including machine learning, interactive intelligence, and computational perception and robotics. Depending on their professional and academic goals, students can pursue a coursework-only degree or complete the degree with a thesis or project.
How To Find the Right Online Masterβs in Computer Science for You
There is no single βbestβ computer science program for all studentsβeach learner has their own unique strengths and needs. While many of the best schools out there share certain characteristics, the right option for you depends on your learning style, goals and schedule.
Consider Your Future Goals
As you plot out your computer science masterβs degree path, itβs important to keep your ultimate goals in mind, since different schools shine in different areas. Think through what you want to get out of your graduate education, and shortlist the schools that align with your plans.
For example, if your goal is to pursue a research or academic career, a masterβs program focused on applied CS skills may not satisfy your needs. You might instead seek a more research-oriented program. Similarly, a heavily research-focused degree may not be the best fit if your priority is immediate professional advancement in a hands-on industry role.
You may also consider the availability of specializations that support your interests and career goals. Computer science programs often feature focus areas that align with popular job and research specializations like data science, cybersecurity, machine learning and even game development. If you know where you want to specialize, you can prioritize programs with concentrations or strong elective offerings in your desired area.
Also consider how long you want to spend in school overall. If you have work or other outside commitments, you might focus your search on schools that allow part-time enrollment. However, studying part time will likely extend the timeline for earning your degree.
Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options
When researching potential schools, cost of attendance is a primary consideration for many students. Computer science degrees, like other academic programs, span a wide range of price points.
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that full-time graduate students at public schools paid an average of $20,513 per year across all institutions, both public and private, or about $41,000 for a typical two-year masterβs program. State schools often charge lower tuition rates than private institutions, especially for in-state enrollees.
By comparison, full-program costs at the 10 schools in our ranking range from less than $7,000 at Georgia Tech to almost $100,000 at USC. Choosing the best program for you requires balancing cost with other important considerations, such as how much of a salary increase you can expect after graduation and whether the program aligns with your learning style and professional goals.
Several options exist to help you pay for your masterβs in computer science, including grants, scholarships, fellowships, graduate assistantships, military tuition benefits and employer tuition assistance. Your schoolβs financial aid office can help you assess what you may qualify for and identify the best funding opportunities for you.
Accreditation for Online Masterβs in Computer Science Online Programs
Accredited schools undergo a rigorous third-party review process to prove that they adhere to high educational quality standards. During this process, an independent accrediting body assesses factors like curriculum content, faculty credentials and availability of student resources.
Accreditation has important practical benefits outside of assuring program quality. Attending an accredited school makes it easier to qualify for financial aid, transfer credits to other institutions and apply to doctoral programs. Employers often look for degrees from accredited schools when screening job applicants.
Any school you consider should be institutionally accredited. Institutional accreditation applies to an entire school, while programmatic accreditation applies to individual departments or programs.
Programmatic accreditation is less prevalent in CS than in many other fields. ABETβs Computing Accreditation Commission is the only body that accredits computer science programs in the United States, but it very rarely accredits programs at the masterβs level. Many of the universities on our list host ABET-accredited computer science and computer engineering bachelorβs programs, however.
What To Expect From an Online Masterβs in Computer Science
Online masterβs in computer science programs typically entail around 30 credits of coursework, but can vary in length depending on your learning pace. Many programs require about 18 months to three years of study. However, if you donβt need to work full time and can take on a challenging course load, you may be able to complete some programs in just one year. Conversely, if your work or personal responsibilities require you to maintain a more gradual place, some programs give you up to five or six years to finish your degree.
Coursework and admission requirements for an online computer science masterβs programs are typically the same as for on-campus programs at the same schools, but there may be variations. For example, some schools offer an abbreviated set of concentrations online compared to their in-person programs. Most programs do not require any campus visits, but some may give you the option to attend some classes on campus.
Admission Requirements
Admission criteria for a computer science masterβs program vary by school, but a bachelorβs degree from an accredited U.S. institution or the international equivalent is a foundational requirement. A bachelorβs in computer science or a related field is often preferred, but applicants from non-CS majors may be considered if they can demonstrate computer programming skills in Java, C++ or Python and have taken certain prerequisite courses.
Prerequisites often including the following:
- Calculus
- Other advanced math courses, such as linear algebra, discrete math and differential equations
- Statistics and probability
- Data structures and algorithms
- Computer organization
Students who lack some of these prerequisites may be allowed to take leveling courses. Some schools set a minimum GPA requirement or request GRE scores.
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Classes
Each CS learner starts their journey with different life circumstances that can affect their study availability.
Online computer science masterβs degrees are often good options for students with work, family or other obligations, especially asynchronous programs that allow enrollees to complete coursework at their convenience. However, asynchronous study demands high levels of independence and self-motivation.
Synchronous courses take place in real time, typically via videoconferences, with many online programs offering evening and weekend classes that fit around a typical 9-to-5 job. A synchronous format may suit you if you thrive best with social support and a set schedule.
Concentrations
Computer science masterβs programs may follow a generalist curriculum, often with opportunities for students to explore their interests through electives. However, many include formalized concentration tracks. Concentrations available in our ranked programs include the following:
- Artificial intelligence and data science
- Communications and networking
- Computational biology
- Computational perception and robotics
- Computer graphics
- Computer security
- Computing systems
- Cybersecurity
- Data science
- Engineering leadership
- Foundations of computer science
- Human-computer interaction
- Interactive intelligence
- Machine learning
- Natural language processing
- Network systems
- Scientists and engineers
- Software engineering
- Software systems
- Systems
- Vision, graphics, interaction and robotics
What Can You Do With a Masterβs in Computer Science?
Many roles in the computing industry require only a bachelorβs degree, but a masterβs degree may be a preferred qualification at many workplaces, particularly for higher-paid managerial or leadership positions.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary | Level of Degree Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and information systems manager | $171,200 | Bachelorβs degree; masterβs may be preferred |
| Computer and information research scientist | $140,910 | Masterβs degree; bachelorβs may be sufficient for some federal jobs |
| Software developer, quality assurance analyst or tester | $131,450 | Bachelorβs degree; masterβs may be preferred |
| Computer network architect | $130,390 | Bachelorβs degree; masterβs may be preferred |
| Information security analyst | $124,910 | Bachelorβs degree |
| Database administrator or architect | $123,100 | Bachelorβs degree; masterβs may be preferred |
| Computer systems analyst | $103,790 | Bachelorβs degree; masterβs may be preferred |
| Network and computer systems administrator | $96,800 | Bachelorβs degree |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Masterβs in Computer Science Programs
Is a masterβs in computer science worth it?
For many current and aspiring tech professionals, a masterβs in computer science can be worth it. Many jobs in the field are accessible with just a bachelorβs degree, but a graduate credential can make you a more attractive candidate for well-paying leadership positions and is a firm requirement for most research scientist roles.
What school has the best computer science program?
The best computer science programs share some commonalities, like institutional accreditation, experienced faculty and strong student support, but there is no one best CS program for all students. Look for a program that offers course content in your areas of interest and a delivery format that fits your learning style and schedule needs.
Is getting an online graduate degree in computer science hard?
Students often find computer science a challenging field. Succeeding in a graduate-level CS programβwhether online or in personβrequires strong abilities in math, logic, problem-solving and critical thinking. Learners also need to pick up technical skills quickly. That said, many individuals thrive on these challenges and find the field deeply rewarding.
How long does a masters in computer science take?
Many computer science masterβs programs take about one and a half to three years to complete. However, some take as little as one year, and others allow part-time degree seekers up to five or six years.
Is an online computer science master's degree expensive?
The cost of an online computer science masterβs degree can vary widely by school. Among the programs on Forbes Advisorβs list of the best online masterβs degrees in computer science, total program costs range from about $6,750 to just under $100,000. Applying for scholarships, grants and fellowships can lower your cost. You might also consider attending a public institution in your home state that offers online programs; resident tuition rates at state universities are often the most affordable.
How much can you make with an online masterβs in computer science?
A masterβs in computer science can lead to many lucrative careers. For example, computer and information systems managers earn a median annual salary of $171,200 and computer and information research scientists earn a median of $140,910, according to 2024 BLS data.
Should I get a master's in computer science in person or online?
Whether you should pursue your masterβs in computer science online or in person depends on your learning style. Online learning can be a great fit for independent learners with strong time management skills, but those who learn better in a more structured, social environment may prefer an on-campus or hybrid program.
How do I apply to an online master's in computer science program?
Applying to an online computer science masterβs program typically requires you to submit transcripts from your undergraduate and any prior graduate study, along with a resume, a personal statement and letters of recommendation. Some programs set minimum GPA requirements or require the GRE.
Can I get a masters in computer science with a different bachelor's?
Yes, depending on the program. Applicants with bachelorβs degrees in computer science often receive preference for admission, but many programs accept those with other undergraduate backgrounds. If your undergraduate degree is not in computer science or a related field, you may need to demonstrate completion of prerequisite math and computing courses, which vary by school.
