Computer Science

M.S.

Enhance your standing in today's job market with a master's degree in computer science from CSUN. Our curriculum blends theoretical foundations with the latest computing technologies.

Why Earn a Master's in Computer Science?

A master's in computer science will broaden your career potential. Many employers now prefer candidates with a master's degree over those with only a bachelor's. A master’s program allows you to focus on fast-growing specialties like network security, data analytics, software development, and artificial intelligence.

Computing teams and software engineering departments are essential in almost every industry. A master's degree in computer science gives you a strong foundation to work in many different industries, expanding your future options. You'll be able to work at a company that is aligned with your interests.

Why Study Computer Science at CSUN?

Affordable & Convenient

A master's degree from CSUN is affordable and flexible. We are committed to providing the services, guidance, and resources you need to pursue your educational goals.

An Education Tailored to Meet Your Goals

Our core courses will give you a strong foundation in advanced topics. You'll then be able to concentrate in a specialized area of your choice.

A Diverse Environment

CSUN’s commitment to diversity goes beyond categories and demographics. Our focus is on inclusivity and a celebration of our students’ identities. We continually seek opportunities to sustain diversity and to forge pathways for access and collaboration in support of inclusion.

Collaborative Experiences

You'll work with other students to master challenging concepts and complete different projects. Everyone in the department—both professors and students—is truly excited to help and share their knowledge with others.

What You'll Learn

You'll complete 30 units of graduate work, including a thesis. You'll take advanced courses in computation theory, algorithms and data structures, system architecture, computer networking, and software engineering.

You can choose electives in an area of specialization or choose a broadly based program of study. You’ll choose from such topics as data mining, machine learning, advanced computer graphics, open source software engineering, and advanced web engineering.

Curriculum

Careers & Outcomes

Jobs for software developers and analysts are projected to grow 22% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Positions for computer and information research scientists with a master's degree are also projected to grow 22%.

Job Titles

  • Software Engineer
  • Systems Architect
  • Systems Analyst
  • Data Analyst
  • Software Consultant
  • Software Development Project Manager

Employers

  • SubmitIt
  • Medtronic
  • Abbott Laboratories
  • O'Neil Data Solution
  • Jet Propulsion Laboratory
  • The Walt Disney Company
  • Expedia
  • Bluebeam
  • Boston Consulting Group
  • Apple Corporation
a CSUN student working on a paper

Our thesis writing workshop gives you an edge.

The Office of Graduate Studies offers a workshop devoted to thesis writing. We encourage you to take advantage of this workshop, which covers such subjects as picking a topic, time management, and working with advisors and committees.

Admission Information

To be considered for admission to CSUN as a master’s student, you will need to:

Learn more about applying for a master's program at CSUN.

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