Computer Science (MS)
Overview
The Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science provides students a strong foundation in the core computer science areas, together with advanced study of specialized topics in computing. Students work closely with faculty members and may elect either the thesis option or the coursework option. The thesis option entails two semesters' study under the direction of a faculty member in which the student gains an understanding of an area of current research and contributes to the state of the art in that area. The thesis option is chosen by students seeking to be involved in the Department's research efforts. The coursework option requires more designated elective hours. Many successful students enter the program with Bachelor's degrees in other disciplines. The department offers a series of graduate courses designed to facilitate students' transition to graduate study in computer science from undergraduate study in other disciplines. The exact sequence of courses is determined individually by the department after review of the student's undergraduate transcript and relevant work experience.
Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science students complete 30 semester hours, including 9 semester hours of required computer science courses with a grade of B or higher, 15 semester hours of computer science prescribed elective courses and 6 semester hours of master’s thesis for the thesis option, or 21 semester hours of prescribed electives for the Non-thesis option. In addition, a final written examination is required for the Non-thesis option.
Background Requirements
Students pursuing the MS in Computer science who enter the program with bachelor’s degrees in fields other than computer science typically need to complete graduate level foundation courses (e.g., CYBI 6303 and CYBI 6305, or CYBI 6307) and possibly undergraduate courses in preparation for advanced coursework in computer science. Any student accepted to the MS in Computer Science Program must fulfill the background requirement A or B as follows.
Requirement A. The student must have earned an undergraduate degree in Computer Science or a related area; or have completed sufficient Computer Science courses prior to admission.
Requirement B. If Requirement A is not met, then the student must meet the following course requirements after admission: CYBI 6303 and CYBI 6305, or CYBI 6307. Background requirements can be partially fulfilled with working experience related to computer science.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the graduate program in computer science, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to UT Rio Grande Valley), as well as the other requirements listed below:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a bachelor’s degree in another field and courses and/or experience that prepare the applicant for graduate work in computer science.
-
GRE General Test. GRE test scores are valid for 5 years. A waiver of the GRE requirement will be granted to applicants who show proof of completing a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral).
- Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 in the last 60 semester credit hours.
- Letter of Intent detailing professional goals and reasons for pursuing the graduate degree.
- Resume.
Application for admission must be submitted prior to the published deadline. The application is available at www.utrgv.edu/gradapply.
Program Requirements
Leveling Courses
Students may be required to take the following leveling courses.
| CYBI 6303 | Principles of Information Technology Systems |
| CYBI 6305 | Foundations of Algorithms and Programming Languages |
| CYBI 6307 | Foundations of Systems in Computer Science |
Required Courses - 9 Hours
| CSCI 6323 | Design and Analysis of Algorithms |
| CSCI 6335 | Advanced Computer Architecture |
| CSCI 6339 | Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science |
Non-thesis Option
Prescribed Electives - 21 Hours
For CSCI 6370, a maximum of six credit hours on different topics can be counted as electives.
Capstone Requirement
Students who pursue the coursework only option must pass a written comprehensive exam.
Thesis Option:
Prescribed Electives - 15 Hours
Thesis - 6 Hours
Total Credit Hours: 30