Online MS in Computer Science (MSCS)

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.

Yes. Employment in computer science jobs is expected to increase by 21% over the next decade—much faster than the average of other occupations (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021). 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.

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. 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.

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. 

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 titles.

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.

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.

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.

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.

No, the GRE is not required for admission to the program.

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.

View upcoming terms, application deadlines, and class start dates.

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. 

You can connect with an enrollment adviser by email or phone.