Master of Science in Computer Science - STEM Designated

Prepare for a Ph.D. program or to enter a research/development career in the computer science industry with a Master of Science in Computer Science. To complete the program, choose from a master’s thesis, master’s project, or coursework only.

Core courses are organized into three categories of computer science: programming, systems, and theory. The degree may be earned strictly through coursework, however, there are options to develop, complete, and defend a master’s thesis, or a master’s project.

Illinois Tech's Mies Campus is located just south of Chicago's downtown, a growing hub of the tech industry, home to a thriving hacking community, and a hive of startup activity.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Computer Science is designed to prepare you for a Ph.D. program or to enter a research/development career in the computer science industry. Core courses are organized into three categories of computer science: programming, systems, and theory.

Which Program Should I Apply To?

• Both programs prepare you for a career as a working professional in computer science.
• The M.S. CS is slightly more theoretically oriented since it requires one more theory core course than the M.A.S. CS.
• Specializations and computer science professional courses are only available through the M.A.S. CS program.
• If you plan to continue studying for a Ph.D., you should consider writing a master's thesis, which is available only under the M.S. CS program.
• If you're not sure which program you want, we suggest applying to the M.S. CS program. If you're accepted, it's easy to change to the M.A.S. CS program later; if you're rejected for the M.S. CS program, you'll automatically be considered for the M.A.S. CS program.

Why Illinois Tech is one of the best value universities in the country

As an Illinois Tech student, you’ll automatically be considered for our university’s generous institutional scholarships. On average, this adds up to a savings of $107,472 on tuition and housing for every student during your four years at Illinois Tech ($134,340 for five years, based on fall 2021 figures).

We’re committed to dramatically reducing the cost of your degree, so you can focus on learning at one of the most dynamic and innovation-driven universities in the country.

Want some more great reasons?

• On top of our institutional scholarship, on average, Illinois Tech awards our students an additional $34,412 each in need-based tuition aid over four years ($43,015 for five years). (among FAFSA filers, fall 2021)
• We’re the #44 Best Value School in the nation (U.S. News & World Report)
• 98% of our students receive some form of financial aid
• The mean starting salary of our undergraduates is $63,938

Located in the great global city of Chicago, Illinois Tech is a top-tier, nationally ranked, private research university with programs in engineering, computer science, architecture, design, science, business, human sciences, and law. As Chicago’s only comprehensive tech-focused university, Illinois Tech offers a bachelor of science, master of science, professional master’s, and Ph.D. degrees, as well as certificates, in in-demand STEM fields and other areas of innovation. Options include in-person, hybrid, and online courses. Undergraduate students can take part in dual-degree and pre-med/pre-health programs, as well as Illinois Tech’s Accelerated Master’s Program, which allows them to receive both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in as few as five years.

Illinois Tech is the only university to offer all students the Elevate program. Elevate guarantees that students participate in hands-on experiences—internships, research, competitions, study away, career-focused short courses, and more—that empower them with the twenty-first-century skills that employers seek. Elevate also ensures students receive personalized academic and career mentorship from a team of advisers and are uniquely career-ready upon graduation.

Illinois Tech is ranked #1 in Illinois among private colleges for return on investment (after aid, PayScale) and is the #44 ranked best value school in the United States (U.S. News & World Report). Illinois Tech graduates achieve a 92.8% employment rate within six months of graduation (2021 class). Its alumni include the inventor of the cell phone, the pioneer of barcode technology, and the head scientist for Amazon Alexa, among other leaders.

Students enjoy studying and living on a historic campus just minutes from downtown Chicago, which offers networking, internship, and career opportunities. Less than a mile from Lake Michigan’s stunning beaches, Illinois Tech’s campus has been acclaimed as “one of America’s most beautiful college campuses.” Illinois Tech students come from more than 106 countries and all 50 states.