Master of Computer Science

Introduction

The Master of Computer Science (MCS) program at Cleveland State University is specifically designed to provide a thorough education in computer science with applications in the areas of computing, engineering, mathematics, medicine, and other relevant fields.

Description

The Master's of Computer Science program emphasizes the study of computing using the latest technologies. It focuses on the theoretical capabilities of computing, including problem-solving and algorithms. Graduates of the program will be prepared for immediate employment in industry and government or pursue doctoral studies in the discipline. 

The program includes required courses in computer architecture, algorithms, operating systems, and programming languages, and a selection of elective courses in the student’s field of interest. They include algorithms, artificial intelligence, big data processing, data mining, database systems, information security, network security, operating systems, software engineering, and many others

Outcomes and Job Prospects

Students engage with real-world problems, often through partnerships with local industry and research opportunities in collaboration with faculty. Many graduates find positions with leading companies and institutions, such as:

• Hyland Software.
• Progressive Insurance.
• Cleveland Clinic.
• Keybank.
• Sherwin-Williams.
• Local and regional government organizations.
• Startups

Possible job prospects after finishing this program are the following:

• Computer and Information Research Scientist
• Computer Network Architect
• Website / Content Manager Developer
• Database Administrator
• Software Developer
• Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst
• System administrator
• Computer Support Specialist

Research Labs

Our research is in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, networks and cybersecurity, data science, Internet of Things (IoT), and computer science education, just to name a few.

Our projects aim at designing and developing improved IoT systems, more efficient and reliable wireless sensing, better cybersecurity systems, more efficient deep learning methods, personalized learning in robotics through AI technology, quantum computing, faster and more efficient health care data management systems, autonomous facilities, and other applications to make our lives better.

Degree Requirements

The degree requires a minimum of 32 credit hours, including 14 credit hours of core courses. Students in the MCS program may elect to complete a thesis option or a non-thesis option.

• The non-thesis option requires completion of 18 credits of elective coursework, which allows students to customize the program.
• The thesis option requires completion of 12 credits of electives in addition to 6 credits of MS thesis research.

Admission and Degree Requirements

Graduate Resources:

• Course Schedule on CampusNet
• Michael Schwartz Library Research Guides
• Graduate Course Descriptions from CSU Catalog