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Academic programs

AcademicsComputer Science, Master of Science

KHOURY College OF COMPUTER SCIENCES

Master of Science in Computer Science

Master’s Degree

Prepare to take on new projects, learn new technologies, hold a leadership role, and help advance the field of computer science in a program known for industry connections and diverse work opportunities. Whether you take a generalist or specialist path, the program will equip you to tackle diverse challenges and answer big questions. You’ll build a strong base of knowledge as you gain expertise in rapidly growing areas like AI, human-computer interaction, security, and more.

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Location

Oakland, California

Commitment

Full-Time/Part-Time

Duration

2 Years

Type

On-Campus

Program overview

Our Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) prepares computer science (CS) professionals in approximately two years to tackle diverse challenges and build the latest technologies. Refine your knowledge and gain expertise in three breadth areas:

Artificial intelligence and data science
Systems and software
Theory and security

You’ll also choose from a range of electives to tailor your program to your interests. Electives cover topics including artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, data visualization, privacy, computer networks, and software engineering. You also can choose to conduct research as part of a capstone project or an individual learning course.

Unique features

Career counselors within Khoury College of Computer Sciences will support you in finding, preparing for, and succeeding in a co-op or internship to help you gain real tech experience before you graduate.
Faculty with professional experience in the San Francisco Bay Area’s tech industry.
Undertake research projects to demonstrate deep theoretical knowledge on your areas of professional interest.

Program objectives

Our MSCS is designed help students advance their careers, add a new specialization, or deepen existing expertise. The program combines both computing and important application domains—enabling you to increase your broad-based knowledge in the field while allowing you to delve deeper in specific areas through elective courses.

Our interdisciplinary curriculum incorporates elements of web development, network security, and machine learning.

Career outlook

Our graduates have found success in a wide range of careers, including:

Full-stack developer at Cartera Commerce, Inc.
Software development engineer at Amazon
Software engineer at Microsoft

Curriculum

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View course catalog

Experiential learning

Northeastern’s signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

Khoury College can help connect you with co-op, internship, and project opportunities, and provide coaching as you apply for placement.
Student research projects, with a faculty advisor, allow you to build up demonstrable technical skills connected to your areas of professional interest.

Explore experiential learning.

Tuition and aid

Tuition

$60,000K

New students at the Oakland campus for the 2025–2026 academic year will receive a 15%-25% scholarship based on incoming GPA.

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and 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. Find detailed information on tuition and fees from 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.

How to apply

Learn more about Khoury College’s admissions process and required materials for the MSCS program, including deadlines.

Start your application

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