Khoury College of Computer Sciences
Align Computer Science
MASTER’S
Technology thrives on new, diverse, and unexpected ideas and perspectives. The Align MSCS program allows professionals with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline to earn a master’s degree in computer science and break into tech.
PROGRAM FORMAT
On Ground
duration
2.5 – 3 Years
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes
TIME COMMITMENT
Part time, full time
Entry term(s)
Fall
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Launch your tech career
The Align MSCS program gives you graduate-level training so you can apply computer science in your areas of expertise—or explore an entirely new career. Through Align, you’ll build skills in the core areas of CS. Then you’ll get to explore the junctions of CS and law, music, biology, business, physics, education, biomedical science or whatever interests you through projects as well as co-op and internship opportunities.
Full-time students typically complete the Align MSCS in 2.5 years. The program begins with a two-semester introductory sequence, which provides the foundational knowledge to ensure that students from non-technical backgrounds have the tools they need to succeed. The program also includes the opportunity for 4-8 months of paid, full-time work experience at a company or organization.
Program features
- Master’s in computer science designed for students without a background in tech
- Unique CS learning environment that prioritizes diversity of thought
- Collaborative peers from different industries who move through the program with you
- Faculty with connections to diverse employers in and beyond Oakland
- Incredible opportunities for paid, full-time co-ops or internships to help you break into the tech industry
- A welcoming environment where diversity of thought is valued and highly encouraged:
- 150+ undergraduate disciplines represented by current students
- 54% identify as female (fall 2024)
- 16% identify as a race or ethnicity historically underrepresented in tech (domestic students, fall 2024)
- 1,200+ accomplished Align MSCS alumni to date
Curriculum details
Build in-demand computer science skills
After completing the two-semester bridge, you’ll be prepared for graduate-level coursework in computer science. You’ll also be able to make the program your own by choosing from a range of electives in important breadth areas of computer science.
Bridge courses:
- Fundamentals of Computer Science
- Discrete Structures
- Computer Systems/Algorithms
- Object Oriented Design
Master’s core courses:
- Algorithms
Electives in a range of areas:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer-Human Interface
- Data Science
- Information Security
- Networks
- Programming Languages
- Software Engineering
- Systems
- Theory
Co-op and internship opportunities
Get ahead as part of an industry-preferred program
Khoury College can help connect you with co-op, internship, and project opportunities with 800+ industry partners. Align MSCS helps prepare you to meet the “preferred” qualifications for job postings with top companies. Many companies offer co-op students full-time employment upon completion of their degree.
Amazon job postings for full-time internships have included the following statement under Preferred Qualifications: “Currently enrolled in the Align Master of Science in Computer Science program at Northeastern University at time of application.”
Build professional connections in Oakland
Your location in Oakland, California, puts you in the heart of a beautiful 135-acre campus that connects you to the San Francisco Bay Area’s renowned innovation ecosystem. One of the most diverse cities in the nation, Oakland is a wellspring of creativity, culture, and innovation—and a key player in the success of the Bay Area tech industry. The Align computer science master’s gives you access to tech companies big and small, from Square and Pandora to Rockbot and Mayvenn.
- One of the fastest-growing high-tech sectors in the U.S. (The Center Square, 2022, on the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward metro area)
- #4 most diverse city in the U.S. (Oakland, World Population Review, 2023)
- 2.38 times higher employment in creative and entertainment fields (Deloitte and Data Wheel, Data USA, 2020)
- Part of the Bay Area ecosystem, home to Fortune 500 companies across industries, as well as small and creative startups
- 4,200+ Northeastern alumni connections in the Bay Area
ADMISSIONS
Apply to the program
A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.
Admissions dates
Fall Entry
Domestic students: August 1
International students: May 1
Admissions requirements
- PDF or scanned copies of unofficial undergraduate transcripts; you can submit official transcripts from colleges/universities attended at the time of admission
- Two out of three essay prompts
- Statement of purpose that should include career goals and expected outcomes and benefits from the program
- Recent professional resumé listing detailed position responsibilities
- Three letters of recommendation
- General GPA minimums: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, 8.0 on a 10.0 scale, or 80 on a 100 scale
- Recommended TOEFL (90 minimum) or IELTS (6.5 minimum) examination scores (international students only)
- GRE Optional
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
Prepare for success
The Align MS in Computer Science program provides computer science expertise to students without a background in tech.
Professional experience in tech
Khoury College can help connect you with co-op, internship, and project opportunities with the college’s 700+ industry partners.
Apply computer science to your interests
You’ll build skills in the core areas of CS. Then you’ll get to explore the junctions of CS and law, music, biology, business, physics, education, biomedical science, language, or whatever interests you.
Watch and learn
COST OF ATTENDANCE
Tuition and financial aid
TUITION IN USD
U.S. domestic
$63,421
TUITION IN USD
International
$71,877
Read full tuition disclaimer
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for the 2026-2027 academic year. The domestic tuition price is inclusive of a scholarship of up to 25% for all domestic students beginning the program in this academic year. The international tuition price is inclusive of a scholarship of up to 15% for all international students beginning their graduate studies in this academic year. These scholarships are not transferable to alternative programs of study, terms or campuses outside of Oakland, CA.
This estimate does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.
Information sessions and tours
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Upcoming eventsSign up for virtual information sessions where you can meet Northeastern admissions staff, faculty, or even our Oakland campus dean. Find out more about our graduate programs, experiential learning in the San Francisco Bay Area, and get advice on preparing a strong admissions application.
On: Aug 04 -
Campus tours
Schedule an in-person tour and experience our beautiful Northern California campus for yourself. Meet our Oakland community, discover our world-class resources, and learn about the unique opportunities in the Bay Area’s thriving business ecosystem.
On: Jul 23
Connect with us
Want more information?
We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team.