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Program Overview
Provides ample opportunities for computer science students to pursue state-of-the-art research and professional development in various interdisciplinary areas.
The University of Colorado Denver Master of Science in Computer Science offers a dynamic and flexible graduate experience designed to prepare students for advanced careers in technology, research, and innovation. The program emphasizes both state-of- the-art research and practical, real-world application across a wide range of interdisciplinary areas. Students complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of graduate-level coursework engaging with cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence, data science, software engineering, and cybersecurity, while also benefiting from opportunities for professional development and hands-on learning.
The program is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing students to choose from three distinct degree plans—such as coursework-only, project-based, or thesis options—so they can tailor their experience to align with their academic interests and career goals. Additionally, this program is offered with expanded online options, allowing students to combine online, in-person, and hybrid formats to complete their degree.
Overall, CU Denver’s MS in Computer Science provides a customizable, rigorous, and forward-looking education designed to support both immediate career advancement and long-term professional growth.
Program Features
- 30 total credit hours
- Online, in-person, and hybrid course delivery options.
- Asynchronous course availability, with part-time or full-time pathways
- Coursework-only, project-based, and thesis degree pathways
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s Degree – BA or BS with a minimum GPA of 3.0, preferably I computer science, engineering, or a related field. Applicants without a formal computer science degree may be considered but may be required to complete prerequisite coursework to ensure readiness for graduate-level study.
- Application Materials - Submission of a completed application, official transcripts, and any additional materials required by the Graduate School.
- International Applicants - Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English.
Program Description
The University of Colorado Denver Master of Science in Computer Science offers a dynamic and flexible graduate experience designed to prepare students for advanced careers in technology, research, and innovation. The program emphasizes both state-of- the-art research and practical, real-world application across a wide range of interdisciplinary areas. Students complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of graduate-level coursework engaging with cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence, data science, software engineering, and cybersecurity, while also benefiting from opportunities for professional development and hands-on learning.
The program is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing students to choose from three distinct degree plans—such as coursework-only, project-based, or thesis options—so they can tailor their experience to align with their academic interests and career goals. Additionally, this program is offered with expanded online options, allowing students to combine online, in-person, and hybrid formats to complete their degree.
Overall, CU Denver’s MS in Computer Science provides a customizable, rigorous, and forward-looking education designed to support both immediate career advancement and long-term professional growth.
Program Features
- 30 total credit hours
- Online, in-person, and hybrid course delivery options.
- Asynchronous course availability, with part-time or full-time pathways
- Coursework-only, project-based, and thesis degree pathways
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s Degree – BA or BS with a minimum GPA of 3.0, preferably I computer science, engineering, or a related field. Applicants without a formal computer science degree may be considered but may be required to complete prerequisite coursework to ensure readiness for graduate-level study.
- Application Materials - Submission of a completed application, official transcripts, and any additional materials required by the Graduate School.
- International Applicants - Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English.
Program Benefits
Flexible Degree Pathways
Students can complete the MS in Computer Science fully online, in person, or through a hybrid format. Asynchronous courses and part-time or full-time options allow you to advance your education while continuing to work, gain experience, and manage competing priorities.
Purpose-Built, Customizable Curriculum
Tailor your degree through flexible pathways and electives aligned to high-demand fields, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and advanced computing systems.
Practical, Career-Ready Skill Development
Coursework emphasizes hands-on, real-world application, equipping students with the technical and problem-solving skills needed for advanced roles in industry, research, or entrepreneurship.
Access to Denver’s Thriving Tech Ecosystem
Located in Downtown Denver, our MS offers the opportunity to study in a program embedded within one of the nation’s fastest-growing tech hubs, with access to industry connections and opportunities that extend well beyond the classroom.
Useful Links
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Learn more about the Master of Science in Computer Science.