Computer Science, MS

The Department of Computer Sciences at Kennesaw State University offers the program of graduate study leading to the degree of Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS).  The MSCS program serves as both a research program training computer scientists, and a professional program training industry practitioners. In order to serve these two audiences, the program provides the following four program models.  MSCS students can choose any one of these four models to pursue their MSCS degrees. 

• THESIS MODEL (36 hours at the 6000 level or above): The thesis model is designed for students who plan to conduct computer science research under the supervision of faculty members in selected areas, consisting of: a 12 hour program core, one complete elective track (9 hours), one or two elective courses (3-6 hours), 3 hour advanced topics course, 6-9 hours thesis, conference submission. 
• PROFESSIONAL PRACTITIONER MODEL (36 hours at the 6000 level or above): 12 hour program core, one 9-hour track, any 5 elective courses (15 hours).
• INTERDISCIPLINARY MODEL (36 hours at the 6000 level or above): 12 hours of program core, 9-hour interdisciplinary option, any five elective courses (15 hour).
• TECHNOLOGY COMMERCIALIZATION MODEL (36 hours at the 6000 level or above): 12 hours of program core, 9-hour technology commercialization track with project, any five elective courses (15 hour). 

The MSCS features excellent curriculum that blends theoretic foundations of computer science with the state-of-the-art computing technologies.  Major areas of study include big data analytics, high performance computing, embedded systems, multimedia, mobile and game development, and cyber security. The program provides students with opportunities in computer science research, advanced project development, industrial internship, and interdisciplinary study.  The MSCS program has a number of premium features, including the integrated use of distance learning technology. Students have a choice of attending class on-campus, remote but “live” at the assigned class time, or remote and viewing the recorded lecture at their convenience.  Moreover, the MSCS program is structured with both full-time and part-time study options in order to provide students with maximum flexibility of study.  

Admission Requirements:

1. Meet all KSU Graduate College Admission Requirements.
2. GRE Score required.
3. Resume/Vita required.
4. Two letters of recommendation.
5. Undergraduate degree from an accredited university.
6. 2.75 Minimum GPA for students with an undergraduate degree in a computing discipline, OR
7. 3.0 Minimum GPA for students with an undergraduate degree in a non-computing discipline. AND must show evidence of programming competency, and have satisfactory coursework or work experience. Applicants lacking foundation knowledge may be provisionally admitted and required to complete the CS Graduate Foundation Certificate, which consists of the following 5000-level foundation courses:

• CS5000 Foundations of Programming (3-0-3)
• CS5040 Data Structures and Algorithms (3-0-3)
• CS5020 Computer Architectures and Operating Systems (3-0-3)
• CS5060 Databases: Design and Applications (3-0-3)
• CS5070 Mathematics Structures for Computer Science (3-0-3) 

MSCS Program Model Options:

Pick one model from the four choices below:

• THESIS MODEL (36 hours at the 6000 level or above): The thesis model is designed for students who plan to conduct computer science research under the supervision of faculty members in selected areas, consisting of: a 12 hour program core, one complete elective track (9 hours), one or two elective courses (3-6 hours), 3 hour advanced topics course, 6-9 hours thesis, conference submission.  Students choose this model should work with a faculty thesis advisor.  Thesis needs to be defended and approved by a thesis committee that consists of at least 3 members.
• PROFESSIONAL PRACTITIONER MODEL (36 hours at the 6000 level or above): 12 hour program core, one 9-hour track, any 5 elective courses (15 hours).
• INTERDISCIPLINARY MODEL (36 hours at the 6000 level or above): 12 hours of program core, 9-hour interdisciplinary option, any five elective courses (15 hour).
• TECHNOLOGY COMMERCIALIZATION MODEL (36 hours at the 6000 level or above): 12 hours of program core, 9-hour technology commercialization track with project, any five elective courses (15 hour).  Students choose this model should work with a faculty supervisor.  The study plan needs to be approved by the program director.