Graduate school requires a substantial financial investment, but cost-reducing options can make pursuing an advanced degree more affordable. For example, choosing a flexible, online program lowers per-semester costs and enables students to keep working to maintain an income stream.
Additionally, graduate students who need help covering the cost of their degrees may access several forms of financial assistance. This article explores the financial aid and scholarship options available to students enrolled in the online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU).
Financial Aid and Scholarship Options for MS in Computer Science Students
When researching financial aid and scholarship opportunities, carefully review the eligibility requirements and application deadlines. Consulting with a financial advisor or the Case Western Reserve financial aid office can also be helpful in weighing different options.
CWRU MSCS Scholarships
At Case Western Reserve University, 100 percent of students enrolled in the online Master of Science in Computer Science program received scholarships to help fund their education; scholarships start at $1,500. Contact an enrollment advisor to learn more about scholarship availability and eligibility.
Federal Direct Loans
According to Sallie Mae, 47% of graduate students have at least one federal loan. For graduate students who don’t qualify for need-based aid, Federal Direct Loans represent a strong alternative. Direct loans typically cover up to $20,500 per academic year. They are available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents taking a minimum of six credits per semester. To qualify for a direct loan, prospective MSCS students must complete and submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
Federal Graduate PLUS Loans
A Federal Direct Loan may not cover all graduate school expenses. The federal government’s Graduate PLUS lending program can help cover any remaining needs. Students must submit the FAFSA and apply for a Federal Direct Loan to qualify.
Private Loans
Private loans offer another financial assistance option. Unlike federal loans, private loans do not require a FAFSA and are not based on need. Banks approve borrowers based on creditworthiness and their ability to repay; for this reason, some students need a co-signer. The lender determines interest rates, grace periods, repayment options, and fees. Private lenders generally charge higher rates than the government.
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Graduate Computer Science Scholarships for Women
Women pursuing computer science master’s are eligible for scholarships offered by women’s organizations, such as the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and Women in Defense.
The SWE scholarships aim to support women-identifying U.S. citizens pursuing careers in engineering and related fields. Their Northrop Grumman SWE Scholarship offers a $4,500 award; the Olga Aparicio Memorial Scholarship offers $1,000.
The Women in Defense scholarship program aims to support women interested in pursuing a career related to national security or defense. To qualify for a WID scholarship, applicants must demonstrate financial need, be a U.S. citizen, and have a minimum 3.25 GPA. Scholarship amounts vary.
Graduate Assistance for Veterans
The Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944—often referred to as the GI Bill—has helped millions of active duty service members and veterans obtain undergraduate and graduate educations. The Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Montgomery GI Bill continue and expand those benefits. Veterans requiring additional funding can receive assistance through the Yellow Ribbon Program, if the academic program participates. The military provides free educational and career counseling to help active duty service members and veterans plan their academic and professional futures.
Computer Science Master’s Scholarships for LGBTQ+ Students
Out to Innovate awards scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to LGBTQ+ students enrolled in STEM degree programs. To qualify, students must identify as LGBTQ+ and actively support and participate in programs promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion. Students must also have completed at least two years of post-high school education with a GPA of 2.75 or higher.
Computer Science Master’s Scholarships for Student Members
Student members of computer science organizations may qualify for awards such as the Lance Stafford Larson Student Paper Award. This award grants $500 to IEEE Computer Society members who submit the best papers focused on computer science topics. The paper must be published or presented at a conference to be eligible.
Employer-Sponsored Graduate Fellowships
The Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity program connects prospective students with employers willing to sponsor their degrees. In exchange, students must complete one or two summer internships, as determined by their sponsor. Any U.S. citizen can apply, as long as they have availability to complete the required internships and don’t have a doctoral degree.
Graduate Scholarships for International Students
International students who want to study in the U.S. can apply for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program to help pay for their studies. To apply, students must have completed their undergraduate education and hold a degree equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.
Why Earn an MS in Computer Science Online From Case Western Reserve University?
The online MSCS program from CWRU prepares students for successful computer science careers in industries such as transportation, healthcare, education, and financial services.
Offered 100% online, Case Western Reserve’s computer science master’s program provides the flexibility to earn a degree while continuing to work. Although learning remotely, students are fully immersed in the Case School of Engineering community. Live class sessions encourage discourse and offer opportunities for hands-on learning.
The program offers two computer science tracks so students can pursue a course sequence that matches their skill level and career objectives. With a focus on topics such as AI, data mining and software engineering, the program helps students develop a range of in-demand computer science skills that position them for career growth in the years to come.
If you have any questions about the program, tuition or financial assistance options email us at financialaid@case.edu or call us at 216.368.4530.