Three students work inside a computer lab in the Min Kao Engineering Building

Computer Science, MS

Take your investigative, problem-solving skills and turn it into a career with an MS degree in computer science. Our world is continuously shifting towards new technology, making this discipline a stable option. The field has several areas of study you can specialize in, ranging from software engineering to machine learning to cybersecurity. As you lay the groundwork for your profession, our program can be the starting point towards a fulfilling journey.

Program overview

Our program enables you to invest in your future. With internationally renowned faculty leading the way in advanced research that will guide you through your time with us, you’ll gain essential knowledge and invaluable experience from mentors across several disciplines. No matter what specialty captures your interest, you’ll find a place in our computer science program to grow your passions.

Concentrations

Although a concentration isn’t required for a computer science degree, we do have a few options if you want to hone in on a specialty. Our concentrations include:

Computer science is a field that has drastically changed our modern world, and it will only continue to grow. With the prospects of interdisciplinary studies and a booming professional field, studying to get your MS in computer science is a fantastic investment in your future.

Access to Facilities and Resources

As you’re studying to get your master’s in computer science, you’ll have access to resources you won’t find at other universities. Our department has several instructional facilities and teaching labs, like the Global Computing Lab or Innovative Computing Lab, where you can work on real projects to gain invaluable experience. UT also partners with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), allowing grad students to conduct research with scientists in a facility with the latest technologies.

What can you do with a MS in Computer Science after graduation?

As one of the fastest growing fields in the US, computer science provides you with an abundance of choices after getting your MS degree. Some of the most common positions include:

  • Computer and information research scientist
  • Computer network architect
  • Software developer
  • Computer systems analyst
  • Mobile application developer

Of course, your job duties and work you do daily will depend on your job. You could build algorithms, write code, keep sensitive information secure, and much more.

Featured Courses

Below are some of the courses that students in our program can choose to take. For a list of courses, visit the Graduate Catalog.

COSC 530 Computer Systems Organization

This course explores the central issues in computer architecture, like memory hierarchies, multiprocessors, and technology trends.

COSC 540 – Advanced Software Engineering

Advanced coverage of software processes and technologies that can be used on large projects to help design, manage, maintain, and test software.

COSC 562 Operating Systems: Design and Implementation

In this class, you will learn about operating system structures and processes. It focuses on implementation of advance concepts in file systems, memory management, and more.

COSC 580 Foundations

Learn about the foundations of computer science, including Turing machines, computability, and computational complexity.

Related Programs

Still thinking about what your degree should be? Look through these related programs based on your interest in a computer science degree: 

Admissions and Aid

Choosing the right university to pursue an engineering degree is an important decision—and a significant investment. We want to make sure that you have the information you need to both apply and make attending UT affordable.