Top Online Master’s in Computer Science for Non-CS Majors

Computer science (CS) has a reputation for being difficult. Many surveys, blogs, and school newspapers have reported that CS as a college major has one of the highest drop-out rates.

Given this reputation, it’s hard to imagine you could get a master’s in computer science without a CS undergrad degree. But it’s possible. Many colleges and universities offer computer science master’s degree programs for non-CS majors if they meet certain requirements.

Explore this guide to learn more about these programs’ admission requirements, coursework, and potential rewards.

The following schools are arranged in alphabetical order. To qualify for inclusion on the list, the school must hold institutional accreditation and offer an online master’s in computer science for non-CS majors.

Case Western Reserve’s online master’s degree program combines synchronous class sessions with asynchronous coursework on topics such as artificial intelligence, algorithms and theory, and bioinformatics.

The curriculum offers two tracks: pathways and advanced. Students without a computer science background can choose the pathways track, while learners with a previous computer science degree can pursue the advanced track. The program takes 5-6 semesters to complete.

Columbia’s online master’s in computer science requires students to complete all coursework within five years while maintaining a GPA of 2.7 or higher. The curriculum includes a mix of theoretical science, mathematics, and experimental technology courses. Columbia offers eight concentration tracks, including computational biology, machine learning, and vision, graphics, interaction, and robotics.

Drexel’s online master of computer science equips learners with theoretical knowledge in the discipline as well as the skill to use cutting-edge tools to solve real-world problems. Students must complete 45 credits to graduate. Core courses include theory of computation, computer graphics, and programming languages.

Georgia Tech’s online master’s of computer science runs asynchronously, providing students additional flexibility. Students must complete 30 credits, including 15-18 in a specialization area and 12-15 in electives. Specialization options include computer graphics, interactive intelligence, and computing systems.

Though the program prefers learners with computer science or computer science-adjacent backgrounds, like math or electrical engineering, the school evaluates applications from students with other degrees as well.

JHU offers an online master’s in computer science through its Whiting School of Engineering. The program requires eight foundational and prerequisite courses along with courses in one of 14 concentration areas. Students must complete the degree within five years. Applicants must have completed at least five prerequisite math and computer science courses.

Stanford’s online master’s in computer program accepts part-time and full-time enrollees. Part-time students take 3-5 years to complete the degree, while full-time learners graduate in only 1-2 years.

The program requires foundational courses in algorithmic analysis, logic, probability, and computer systems for learners without a computer science background. Students also explore one of four breadth areas: applications, computer systems, computing and society, or mathematical and theoretical foundations.

Stevens’ online master’s degree in computer science takes two years to earn. Students take courses in areas like human-computer interaction, mobile systems, and cloud computing. The coursework also equips learners with advanced skills in industry tools such as Java, C++, and machine learning. Both traditional and advanced tracks are available.

UIUC’s online master of computer science covers topics such as artificial intelligence, scientific computing, databases, and human-computer interaction. Enrollees can complete the program in 1-5 years and may transfer in up to 12 credits.

Penn’s master of computer and information technology program is open to applicants with no computer science background. In addition to six core courses in subjects like software development, computer systems programming, and algorithms, learners complete four electives, which can include natural language processing, computer vision and computational photography, and big data analytics.

Vanderbilt’s online master’s in computer science is an interdisciplinary program focused on the intersection of computer science with related subjects. Courses cover topics such as intelligent systems, mobile and cloud computing, and computer science theory. Students can complete Vanderbilt’s 30-credit program in 12-20 months, taking 6-12 units each term.

The following schools also offer master’s in computer science degrees for non-CS majors:

Many master’s in computer science programs enhance technical proficiency, develop critical thinking abilities, and encourage innovative research in the computer science domain.

Most computer science master’s degrees require 30-36 credits, including a mix of core subjects, electives, and research. Students typically take courses in computer science theory alongside classes about using technical tools to solve real-world problems. Some programs conclude with a capstone project or a thesis. Generally, full-time learners complete these degrees in 1-2 years, while part-time students often take 2-3 years.

Tuition depends on factors like students’ state residency and whether a school is public or private. Scholarships, financial aid, and assistantships can help eligible students alleviate the financial burden of earning a degree.

The curriculum for computer science master’s programs varies. Below, we highlight some common core classes and interdisciplinary courses you may encounter in a computer science master’s program:

You can earn a master’s in computer science even if you have a bachelor’s degree in a non-computer science field. Some institutions even run entire programs specifically for students without a CS background.

However, without a bachelor’s degree in the subject matter, you may need to complete prerequisite classes or demonstrate skills in computer science through work experience or programming experience.

Prospective graduate students may benefit from taking leveling courses in discrete mathematics, computer science, or electrical engineering, even if they aren’t required for admission. Earning an industry-recognized certification in cybersecurity, coding, or another CS-related field may also help your application stand out.

Applicants to computer science master’s degree programs must meet each school’s admissions requirements. Each school’s admission committee makes its own decisions based on various factors.

Though specific criteria vary, the following components are common among master’s programs:

Computer science majors may pursue a general CS master’s degree or a specialized plan of study. Non-CS majors can follow the same path, gaining a better understanding of computer science theory, tools, and techniques.

However, because programs for non-CS majors welcome learners from other backgrounds, some concentrations may align better with students’ previous knowledge. Fields like biology, English, psychology, and mechanical engineering can all form excellent foundations for CS specializations.

The list below includes several concentration options:

The average annual tuition for an online master’s degree program in computer science was $10,877 during the 2021-2021 school year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, costs may vary. Many factors affect the cost of a degree, including a school’s prestige, its public or private status, and applicants’ state residency.

In addition to tuition, you should budget for the cost of living while going to school, including expenses like groceries, housing, transportation, and insurance.

Financial aid can help alleviate the costs of pursuing a degree. Funding options include:

To learn more about financial aid, click on the links below.

A master’s in computer science can lead to careers in creating or managing powerful technology. People with a non-CS background can bring an array of complementary knowledge and skills to the industry. For example, chemists and biologists understand key concepts necessary for biocomputing, and humanities majors may thrive as human-computer interaction specialists.

When transitioning from a non-CS major or background into computer science, you may want to polish your resume by earning third-party certifications to demonstrate your mastery of technical skills. In addition, an internship or entry-level work experience in technology may help you stand out for graduate admission committees or employers.

Computer science master’s degree-holders can qualify for jobs like those listed below, with May 2023 median salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.