Master of Science in computer science

Accelerate your career with Wayne State University’s highly regarded and affordable master’s in computer science degree program. Contribute to the growth, development and stability of both the private and public sector by mastering complex computer systems and their applications.

The faculty comprises accomplished experts in diverse fields within computer science, providing students with a well-rounded education. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, ensuring that students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also gain practical skills crucial in the dynamic tech industry. Also, Wayne State's location in Detroit provides a rich environment for networking and potential job opportunities with the city's growing tech sector. 

 

Program highlights

• Flexibility to choose a thesis or non-thesis track
• Two concentrations: artificial intelligence and autonomous driving
• Funded computer science research at the forefront of the industry
• AGRADE 4+1 program—graduate with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just 5 years

What will you learn in the M.S. computer science program?

Lead the pack with powerful analytical capabilities, practice implementing solutions, passion for your sub-discipline and a penchant for lifelong learning in the always-expanding domain of computer science.

Through the master’s degree, you gather the best practices, knowledge and skills essential for creating and maintaining robust computer systems, from cyber security and software engineering to game programming and bioinformatics. 

Depending on your area of focus, expand your talents using C++, C#, DirectX, Windows, SQL, Elliptic Curve Cryptosystems, IDEA, AI path programming, Lisp, Prolog and more.

Program curriculum and courses

Wayne State’s 30-credit master’s degree in computer science can be completed with an 8-credit thesis (Plan A) or without a thesis (Plan C). 

The MS in computer science anchors your theoretical knowledge through core courses in algorithms and automata. You then broaden your perspectives by choosing courses that match your interests and goals in a variety of computer science disciplines including artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, computer game design, computer graphics, computer networking, computer vision, data mining, database management systems, parallel and distributed systems, real-time and embedded systems, and software engineering.

Review the M.S. in computer science program curriculum.

Concentration options to suit your career interests

Tailor your computer science master’s degree to your career goals with a concentration in artificial intelligence (AI) or autonomous driving.

The AI concentration is offered fully online. With this specialization, you develop expertise in digital image processing, intelligent systems, game programming and design, data mining, machine learning, and other aspects of artificial intelligence.

The autonomous driving concentration encapsulates both real-time and AI features of autonomous driving, including in-depth study of embedded operating systems, cyber-physical systems, machine learning and networking.

Real-world experience with computer science research and industry projects

Build your portfolio and engineer innovative solutions through Wayne State’s fully funded, cutting-edge research and seminars with industry experts. Our full-time faculty, visiting lecturers and graduate students are leading state-of-the-art research in areas like:

Computer and network systems

• Networking and distributed systems
• Computer security
• Parallel and cloud computing
• Real-time systems
• Software engineering

Information and intelligent systems

• Databases
• Machine learning
• Artificial intelligence
• Pattern recognition
• Computer graphics and visualization
• Bioinformatics
• Health informatics

Career opportunities with a master’s in computer science

Computer science careers are lucrative and in high demand, with a median annual salary across all related occupations of over $97,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). The master’s in computer science equips you to pursue further Ph.D. studies and to take on impactful roles in the private sector, government and not-for-profit organizations. Our graduates occupy positions like:

• Computer Systems Analyst
• Network Systems Administrator
• Information Security Analyst
• Data Analyst
• Computer Network Architect
• Software Development Engineer

Tuition and financial aid

Earn your master’s degree in computer science at the most affordable cost among Michigan’s top research universities. In addition to keeping tuition rates low, WSU offers generous financial aid that includes scholarships and assistantships—opportunities that support your career development and financial stability alike.

Admission requirements (GRE not required)

To be considered for the computer science master’s program, you should have attained a GPA of 3.0 or better in your baccalaureate program, including courses in computer science and mathematics (see prerequisite requirements below).

Include the following materials when you upload your online Graduate School application:

• Official transcripts from each college or university attended

International applicants must meet the Graduate School’s minimum English proficiency requirements

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test results are not required for MS applicants.  However, we recommend sending GRE test results if you completed your undergraduate degree at a non-ABET accredited school.

Learn more about graduate school admissions.

For applicants without a CS background

If you do not have adequate background in computer science, complete the coursework listed below to be considered for admission into the graduate program. We recommend applying for undergraduate admission as a second major if you intend to complete the full course list. Prerequisite graduate coursework will not transfer to the master’s program. 

The Graduate Program Director may waive some courses if you demonstrate sufficient background knowledge in the subject.

Prerequisite requirements

• CSC 1100 Problem Solving and Programming (4 Credits)
• CSC 1500 Fundamental Structures in Computer Science (4 Credits)
• CSC 2110 Computer Science I (4 Credits)
• CSC 2200 Computer Science II (4 Credits)
• CSC 3100 Computer Architecture and Organization (4 Credits)
• CSC 3110 Algorithm Design and Analysis (3 Credits)
• CSC 4420 Computer Operating Systems (4 Credits)
• CSC 4500 Introduction to Theoretical Computer Science (3 Credits)
• MAT 2010 Calculus I (4 Credits)
• MAT 2020 Calculus II (4 Credits)
• MAT 2250 Elementary Linear Algebra (3 Credits)
• BE 2100 Basic Engineering III: Probability and Statistics in Engineering (3 Credits)

Application deadlines

• Fall (begins in August): July 15
• Winter (begins in January): November 1
• Spring/Summer (Spring begins in May; Summer begins in June): February 1

Learn more about graduate admissions.

Redefine the future of technology with an M.S. in computer science degree

Achieve your professional goals with Wayne State University’s Master of Science in computer science. Here, you have the flexibility to study part- or full-time in a thesis or non-thesis degree track and choose to specialize in AI or autonomous driving.