Master of Science in Computer Science

Reboot Your Future

Computer and information science (CIS) is a vigorous and exciting field that continues to grow in importance from both a research and industry perspective. Computer science programs are broad in scope and deal with software and hardware technology, the theory of computation, scientific computing, and their applications.

The MS in Computer Science program teaches students computer science subjects in four foundational areas: theory, systems and networks, software, and information. In addition, the MS program also provides numerous advanced courses and seminars to acquaint students with cutting edge computer science research.

Why get a master’s in computer science at the University of Delaware?

At the University of Delaware, we’re pushing the boundaries of computer and information science. You can research how to keep people safe from emerging cyber threats with the X-Lab, develop the newest automobile technology in the Connected and Autonomous Research (CAR) Laboratory, investigate how immersive technology impacts user experience in the education and healthcare fields with the Human-Computer Interaction Lab and innovate the future of artificial intelligence in the Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence. These are just some examples of the prolific research taking place within the UD Department of Computer and Information Sciences.

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 23% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the 3% average for all occupations.

Computer science jobs top the list of highly ranked occupations, according to Indeed and Glassdoor.

The computer science alumni network provides invaluable support and offers mentorship, networking opportunities, and insights into industry trends to current students. This community of professionals committed to mutual success is backed up by an exceptional career services team at UD. From personalized career counseling and interview techniques to exclusive job fairs featuring top employers, we ensure our students are fully prepared to navigate the job market confidently.

Admission Requirements

The following are the general requirements for admission to our graduate program:

1. The equivalent of a bachelor’s degree at the University of Delaware. A minimum grade average of 3.2 in the major field of study and an overall cumulative index of 3.0 is required.
2. Scholarly competence in mathematics and computer programming. Applicants are expected to know the material covered by at least one undergraduate course in each of the following topics: structured high-level language programming; data structures; computer architecture; operating systems; and analysis of algorithms. Additionally, applicants must have completed the equivalent of at least four undergraduate courses in the following topics: calculus; discrete mathematics; probability and statistics; mathematical logic; and comparable formal subjects, such as Theory of Computation.
3. Minimum GRE scores of 153 for the verbal section, 155 for the quantitative section, and 4.0 for the analytical writing section. The GRE subject test is not required.
4. If the applicant has completed graduate courses in computer science beyond the bachelor’s degree, the grades earned in these courses will be reviewed and considered in the admission decision. A minimum grade of 3.0 (B) in each of these courses is required.
5. International applicants must demonstrate a satisfactory level of proficiency in the English language if English is not their first language. The University requires an official TOEFL score of at least 79 on the Internet-based test. A TOEFL score of at least 100 is required to be considered for a teaching assistantship. 
6. Three (3) letters of recommendation from professors (preferably), employers, or others who are able to assess your potential for success in graduate studies.

Admission to the graduate program is competitive. Those who meet stated minimum requirements are not guaranteed admission, nor are those who fail to meet all of those requirements necessarily precluded from admission if they offer other appropriate strengths.

Degree Requirements

The MS in Computer and Information Sciences requires a total of 30 credits.

• All master’s students must take a graduate course in either algorithm design and analysis (e.g., CISC 621) or in theory of computation (e.g., CISC 601).
• Each semester all graduate students must register for CISC 890 Colloquium: Computer Science (3 semesters or 9 credits)
• Students are encouraged to participate in the research activities of the Department by taking CISC 666, CISC 866, or CISC 868.
• 12 Elective Credits
• 12 credits, one from each of the following 4 core areas:

Area 1: Theory

• Elements of the Theory of Computation (CISC 601)
• Logic in Computer Science (CISC 604)
• Algorithm Design and Analysis (CISC 621)

Area 2: Systems and Networks

• Computer Networks II (CISC 650)
• Computer Systems: Architecture (CISC 662)
• Operating Systems (CISC 663)
• Compiler Construction (CISC672)

Area 3: Software

• Computer Graphics (CISC 640)
• Software Engineering: Principles and Practices (CISC675)
• Artificial Intelligence (CISC 681)

Area 4: Information

• Bioinformatics (CISC636)
• Topics: Artificial Intelligence (CISC689) or Introduction to Data Mining (CISC683)
• Database Systems (CISC637)
• Introduction to Computer Vision (CISC642)

Review the University Catalog or course descriptions for the most up-to-date information.