Master of Science in Computer Science

The function and influence of the computer is pervasive in contemporary society. Today's computers process the daily transactions of international banks, the data from communications satellites, the images in video games, and even the fuel and ignition systems of automobiles. Computer software is as commonplace in education and recreation as it is in science and business. There is virtually no field or profession that does not rely upon computer science for the problem-solving skills and the production expertise required in the efficient processing of information. Computer scientists, therefore, function in a wide variety of roles, ranging from pure theory and design to programming and marketing.

The computer science curriculum at Columbia places equal emphasis on theoretical computer science and mathematics and on experimental computer technology. A broad range of upper-level courses is available in such areas as artificial intelligence, computational complexity and the analysis of algorithms, combinatorial methods, computer architecture, computer-aided digital design, computer communications, databases, mathematical models for computation, optimization, and software systems. The Master of Science (M.S.) program is intended for professionals who wish to broaden and deepen their understanding of computer science. The program provides a unique opportunity to develop leading-edge in-depth knowledge of specific computer science disciplines. The department currently offers concentration tracks covering eight such disciplines.

Since its inception in 1986, Columbia Video Network has been leading the field of online learning, enabling thousands of working professionals and remotely-located students to benefit from our part-time, online graduate engineering degree and certificate programs without having to come on campus.

As an online engineering student, you will have access to our world-renowned engineering faculty who are leaders and innovators in their respective fields. The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences offers broad-based, graduate-level engineering instruction within a major research university and is ideally suited to educate tomorrow’s engineering leaders and encourage technical literacy. Our part-time engineering and applied science programs, which are among the nation’s oldest and most influential, embrace new technologies and interdisciplinary possibilities.

Our online engineering students enjoy a wide array of part-time engineering masters degree, non-degree, and certificate programs within the fields of: Operations Research, Methods in Finance, Industrial & Systems Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical and Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering & Management Systems, and Materials Science.