Online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) Program
From discovery to application, you’ll take an active part in developing solutions that impact society—even before you graduate. Whether you’re an intermediate or advanced computer science practitioner, you can tailor your online MSCS program to your level of experience and career goals. You’ll graduate with in-demand, future-proof technical skills, ready to take on any industry.
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Online MSCS Program Overview
Computer science is an in-demand field that impacts nearly every industry and sector, including transportation, healthcare, education and financial services. Our online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program prepares you with the fundamental technical knowledge you need to succeed and lets you explore new industry challenges and innovations.
With two online MSCS program tracks to choose from—a pathways track for students with a strong STEM background who need foundational computer science courses and an advanced track for experienced computer science students—you can pursue a course sequence that supports your computer science skill level.
Required Credits
30-34.5 Credit Hours*
Estimated Time to Complete
5-6 Academic Terms*
Classroom Time
Each course will have approximately 50 minutes of live class sessions per week.
*Credit hours and estimated time to completion depends upon your selected program track.
MSCS Program Learning Outcomes
Online MSCS Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our online MSCS features two program tracks tailored to your level of computer science experience. Both our advanced and pathways course sequences offer a hands-on, experiential curriculum covering diverse computer science topics, including machine learning and blockchain. We help you develop strong technical knowledge that can be applied to any industry.
Flexibility
Our 100 percent online MSCS program allows you to learn from wherever you’re located through a blend of self-paced coursework and live virtual classes. Program courses are not interdependent, which means you can complete them in any order you choose.
Strong Networks
As a Case School of Engineering alum, you’ll join a powerful, globe-spanning network that includes more than 20,000 School of Engineering graduates who support the Case Western Reserve community in many different ways. You’ll also become part of the university’s alumni network, which is more than 110,000 members strong.
Master’s in Computer Science Job Outlook
A well-rounded balance of academics and flexible, hands-on learning led by expert faculty will help you learn, grow and excel in the field of computer science and ready you for exceptional career growth and leadership potential. Explore the robust career trajectories and jobs in computer science available to CWRU MSCS program graduates.
Online MS in Computer Science Curriculum
With two tracks of study for mid-level and advanced STEM professionals, the MS in Computer Science program offers a customizable learning experience tailored to your level of experience. Across the pathways and advanced track, courses provide hands-on training in the leading computer science tools.
Explore the CurriculumMeet the CWRU Computer Science Faculty and Leadership Team
Our online MSCS courses are taught by industry leaders whose background and experience range across areas that include theoretical computer science techniques, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning and more.
Harold Connamacher
Soumya Ray
Why Case School of Engineering?
The top-ranked¹ Case School of Engineering is recognized for its creative scholarship, expert faculty, hands-on learning and multidisciplinary approach to learning and problem-solving.
While committing to student success beyond the classroom, Case Western Reserve University offers educational opportunities to meet students where they are. As a Case School of Engineering student, you’ll have the option to pursue one of two program tracks designed for your ability and experience level.
Learn More1 U.S. News & World Report, Best Engineering Schools, 2021.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Employment in computer science jobs is expected to increase by 23% between now and 2032—much faster than the average of other occupations (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024). Earning a master’s degree will prepare you with advanced technical skills and can give you the competitive edge to secure jobs.
The current landscape for computer science careers is robust. Earning a Master of Science in Computer Science online from Case Western Reserve will ensure you are equipped with the specialized skills employers currently demand. Careers available to graduates of the online MS in Computer Science program include principal software engineer, principal systems engineer, data scientist, full-stack software engineer, back-end software engineer, data engineer, software engineer, systems engineer, software developer and data analyst.
Case Western Reserve University’s online MS in Computer Science (MSCS) program offers students a rigorous, comprehensive and progressive curriculum that keeps pace with emerging advancements in the field. Though we designed the program to challenge students, we offer individualized success coaching and career services to support you throughout your journey.
Our program offers two tracks based on your level of technical experience: the pathways track and the advanced track. The curriculum for both tracks focuses on four key areas of computer science: artificial intelligence (AI), databases and data mining, security and privacy, and software engineering.Â
The program emphasizes hands-on learning through live and independent online coursework, ensuring you gain both the fundamental technical knowledge and interpersonal skills necessary for success in the field. We continuously update the curriculum to address current issues, trends and best practices to prepare you for a rewarding career.
Designed for mid-level professionals, the pathways track helps those with a strong STEM background transition into computer science. It includes foundational CS coursework necessary for both academic and career success. The advanced track empowers professionals with existing CS experience to advance their proficiency and compete for more senior job roles.
To be eligible for the pathways track, students must have completed a bachelor’s degree, a college-level calculus course, and an introductory course in object-oriented programming. They may fulfill the remaining computer science prerequisite courses through this track.
Advanced track students should have already completed a bachelor’s degree and all prerequisite coursework. These requirements are more comprehensive than pathways track prerequisites and can vary from student to student. Connect with an enrollment adviser to confirm your eligibility for the advanced track, in which you will focus on specialized CS topics and emerging technologies to accelerate your proficiency in the field.
No, the GRE is not required for admission to the program.
Applicants should submit a completed online application, a statement of impact, a current resume, unofficial transcripts, two letters of recommendation and proof of English language proficiency (for students whose native language is not English). Our admissions committee takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications and considers both an applicant’s academic history and work experience. For more information about application requirements, review the application checklist.
Yes, international students are encouraged to apply. For students who have or will have earned a three-year bachelor’s degree, you may need a transcript evaluation prepared by World Education Services (WES) or Education Credential Evaluators (ECE). In addition, applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency.
Yes, we designed the program to accommodate the needs of working professionals. The flexible online format and self-paced coursework allow you to balance your studies with existing commitments.
The program’s duration can vary depending on your chosen track and individual pace. On average, most students complete the program within five to six academic terms while balancing their studies with work and other commitments. However, it is possible to accelerate or extend your studies based on your needs.
As an online student, you will benefit from exceptional support from the first day you inquire about the program through graduation. Our engaging learning platform makes it easy to stay connected with other students and faculty. You will have access to discussion boards, live study sessions and online office hours. A student success coach will guide you throughout the program, and our career services team will help prepare you for success post-graduation. In addition, 24/7 tech support is available to ensure you stay connected and informed.Â
Online Master’s in Computer Science (MSCS) Accreditation
Case Western Reserve University has been accredited since 1913 by the Higher Learning Commission, one of the six regional agencies that accredit U.S. colleges and universities at the institutional level. In 2015, CWRU was reaccredited by the Commission for ten years, the maximum period possible. The university’s next site visit by a Commission team will be in 2025.
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Curriculum
With two program tracks to choose from, you can pursue a cutting-edge, multidisciplinary curriculum tailored to your level of computer science experience and career goals.
Explore the ProgramCareer Outlook
Computer scientists are in high demand. Take a closer look at typical career outcomes you could pursue after completing this program.
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