Computer Science, M.S.
Program Director: Aijuan Dong, Ph.D.; dong@hood.edu; 301-696-3884
The Master of Science in Computer Science is a comprehensive 33-credit program designed for individuals seeking to advance their professional qualifications through graduate study in computer science. Graduates of this program will gain in-depth knowledge and hone problem-solving skills, equipping them for diverse scientific and technical roles in computing. The program's flexible structure, including a wide range of elective courses, allows students to explore various topics such as artificial intelligence, security, and software engineering. Additionally, students can specialize in one of two concentrations: data science or cybersecurity. This program also prepares graduates for potential doctoral studies.
Application Requirements:
All official transcripts and a résumé must be submitted.
For additional admission information, see Graduate Admission.
Program Requirements
Foundation Courses
The foundation courses represent background knowledge and skills necessary for successful completion of degree requirements. Some or all of the foundation courses may be waived by the program director, based upon an analysis of the student’s previous work. A student holding a baccalaureate degree in computer science will normally be granted exemption from, but not graduate credit for, all foundation courses. Any foundation courses required are in addition to the 33 credits required for program completion. Students who are waived from foundation coursework cannot complete it for elective fulfillment.
| MATH 505 | Discrete Math | 3.0 |
| CS 508 | Computer Organization and Design | 3.0 |
| CSIT 512 | Elements of Computer Programming | 3.0 |
| CS 519 | Advanced Data Structures | 3.0 |
Degree Requirements
A student must complete 33 credits beyond foundation courses, including 15 credits of Core requirements. The Core courses represent the general body of knowledge and skills that all students in the program are expected to master.
Core Requirements
One of the following courses:
| CS 561/CS 461 | Computer Architecture | 3.0 |
| CS 571 | Programming Languages: Their Design and Compilation | 3.0 |
Electives
Students must complete 18 credits of elective work, which may include a 6-credit thesis (CS 580), a 6-credit fieldwork project (CS 585), a 6-credit software engineering project (CS 595), or an internship (CSIT 597). All elective courses must be chosen from CS or CSIT prefixed coursework. Certain pre-approved courses from the CYBR program may also be chosen. Students may use their electives to pursue a concentration in Data Science or Cybersecurity (see concentration options below).
Concentrations
Students may elect a concentration in Data Science (12 credits) or Cybersecurity (15 credits), completing the remaining credits (6 or 3) required for program completion from elective options. Students who do not wish to pursue one of these concentrations will complete 18 credits of elective coursework.
Data Science Concentration
Cybersecurity Concentration
Students cannot simultaneously pursue both the cybersecurity concentration and the cybersecurity certificate.