Computer Science

  • MS
  • Master's
Computer Science professor giving a lecture to their students.

Master of Science in Computer Science

Advance your expertise with a flexible, career-focused computer science master’s degree. The Master of Science in Computer Science at Montclair State University is offered online and in-person, so you can choose the format that fits your life.

Build advanced skills in software engineering, cybersecurity, computer algorithms, machine learning and data management through hands-on, industry-aligned projects. Designed for today’s technology landscape, the curriculum integrates artificial intelligence throughout the program. You’ll learn to apply Generative AI tools including large language models to accelerate coding, analysis and documentation while evaluating output quality, protecting data and communicating responsibly.

Whether you’re advancing in your career or preparing to pursue your doctorate, you can choose a thesis or non-thesis pathway that aligns with your career goals. Students without a traditional computer science background may be eligible for bridge coursework before beginning the full program.
 

Program Highlights

  • Flexible scheduling available online or in-person
  • Thesis and non-thesis options to match career and research goals
  • STEM-designated program designed for full-time students and working professionals
  • AI-integrated coursework with hands-on experience in software development, machine learning and Generative AI tools
  • 30-credit completion providing a comprehensive foundation in AI, software engineering, cybersecurity and computer algorithms.
     

Formats and Areas of Focus for the MS in Computer Science

Choose the learning format that fits your life, and tailor your plan through electives and program options. Across formats, coursework emphasizes both CS fundamentals and the AI-driven workflows shaping today’s software, data and systems roles.

Program Formats

Learn how the MS in Computer Science is offered.

Complete coursework in a flexible online format convenient for working professionals, without compromising rigor. Courses are delivered in 14-week sessions during the fall, spring and summer terms.

  • Hands-on projects using modern development tools and environments
  • Collaboration with peers through structured discussions and team-based work
  • AI in practice: Learn how to use Generative AI tools for coding, testing, documentation and analysis, paired with ethical and security best practices
  • Online option students take electives exclusively from the Area of Focus: Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

See the Curriculum

Learn on campus with face-to-face instruction, access to labs and opportunities to engage in research and campus-based collaboration.

  • Direct interaction with faculty and peers
  • Campus resources that support hands-on experimentation and exploration
  • Options to pursue thesis-based research aligned to faculty expertise

See the Curriculum

Customize Your MS: Areas of Focus

Choose elective options to align the degree to your career goals.

Develop advanced skills in machine learning and deep learning, and explore the rapidly evolving world of large language models (LLMs), computer vision, and Generative AI. Sample course topics:

  • Machine Learning
  • Deep Learning
  • Computer Vision and Image Analysis
  • Large Language Models

Build the ability to work with data at scale using analytics, visualization and big data techniques to drive insight and decision-making. Sample course topics:

  • Exploratory Data Analysis & Visualization
  • Big Data Analytics

Strengthen your ability to design systems that are secure, resilient and trustworthy especially in an era of AI-enabled threats. Sample course topics:

  • Threat Modeling and Analysis
  • Cyber Defense and Resiliency
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Cybersecurity

Build modern software engineering skills, from architecture and testing to deployment, and explore mobile and distributed application development. Sample course topics:

  • Software Engineering
  • Mobile Computing
  • Principles of Secure Programming
  • Robotics

Why This Program at Montclair

AI-Infused Computer Science Curriculum

Learn computer science fundamentals while gaining practical experience with responsible Generative AI workflows in online or in-person courses that mirror how modern teams build, test and deploy software.

Thesis or Non-Thesis Flexibility

Choose a research-focused thesis path or a practice-focused non-thesis plan and map your electives with an advisor for either the online or in-person format.

Built for Career Growth

Prepare for advanced roles in software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data science with options to learn online or in-person – so you can balance work and life.
 

The School of Computing Difference

Whether you study online or in-person, Montclair’s School of Computing faculty bring current research and real-world practice into the classroom, so what you learn stays relevant as the field evolves. What sets the MS in Computer Science apart:

  • Strong foundations + modern specialization: Build computer science fundamentals and tailor electives in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, data science, distributed systems and more.
  • Hands-on, portfolio-ready learning: Solve real-world problems with projects using real datasets and production-minded software engineering practices.
  • Responsible AI by design: Gain the skills to use Generative AI tools effectively while understanding security, privacy, bias and academic integrity.
  • A clear on-ramp for non-CS backgrounds: Complete prerequisite, bridge coursework as needed and enter the computer science master’s program ready to succeed in any format.

Career Outlook for the MS in Computer Science

The MS in Computer Science prepares you to design and build intelligent and complex systems and to lead in environments where tools change fast but fundamentals matter. Available online and in-person, the master’s degree strengthens your technical depth, problem solving and ability to adapt as the field evolves. Your studies can support growth into senior technical roles, team leadership or advanced AI and data roles. Thesis students can also pursue continued doctoral study.

Where Our Grads Go

Graduates pursue roles such as:

  • Software Engineer / Software Developer
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Data Engineer / Data Scientist
  • Cybersecurity Analyst / Security Engineer
  • Cloud or Distributed Systems Engineer
  • Solutions Architect
  • Research Engineer / Research Assistant (and pathways to PhD study)

Industries include technology, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, education, government and nonprofit organizations. Anywhere advanced computer science expertise is needed, your skills can make an impact.

Advance Your Career in Computer Science

The Cost of Your MS in Computer Science

A Smart Investment in Your Career

Tuition and fees vary by format (online or in-person) and residency. Review latest graduate tuition and fees and budget for books, software and other program-related costs. Financial support may include:

Tip: If your employer offers tuition reimbursement, ask whether your role category (e.g., software engineering, cybersecurity or data science) qualifies for additional professional development support.

Support That Moves With You

Computer science graduate student meeting with an advisor online.

Academic Advising & Degree Planning

Get support selecting prerequisites (if needed), choosing thesis vs. non-thesis and mapping electives toward your career goals.

Student working on code and data analysis on a laptop.

Tech & Tools

Use industry-standard development and collaboration tools and learn where AI tools help (and where they don’t). You'll build skills in version control, debugging, testing, documentation and responsible use of Generative AI.

Students collaborating in a lab setting.

One-on-One Student Services

Access career services, library resources, accessibility services and technical support—available to help you stay on track whether you learn on campus or online.

Ready to Apply to the MS in Computer Science? Here’s How

Admissions Requirements

  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees should review U.S. degree equivalency guidance for international applicants.
  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with either:
    • A major in computer science or mathematics, OR
    • A major in science or engineering, OR
    • Another major with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) or other indications of ability to complete graduate study.

No CS background? You may be admitted with prerequisite, bridge coursework first. These courses do not count toward degree credit and are used to ensure you’re prepared to succeed in graduate-level computer science.

Application Checklist

Start your application online

  • Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
  • Online Application: Submit application ($60 non-refundable fee unless waived)
  • Transcripts: One from each college attended.
  • Resume or CV: Required.
  • Letters of Recommendation: 2
  • GRE: Optional

Master Computer Science on Your Schedule

Featured Faculty

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Frequently Asked Questions
 

Is the MS in Computer Science available online and in-person?

Yes. Montclair State University offers the MS in Computer Science in both online and in-person formats. Course availability and schedules can vary by term, so work with an advisor to map the best plan for you.
 

Do I need a bachelor’s degree in computer science to apply?

Applicants should have the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree. Eligible backgrounds include: computer science or mathematics; science or engineering; or any other major with a 3.0 GPA or evidence of ability to succeed in graduate-level computer science.
 

What if I’m changing careers or missing prerequisites?

If you don’t have a computer science background, you may be admitted with deferred matriculation and asked to complete free, non-credit online bridge modules to build foundational knowledge before starting the full program.
 

What is the difference between the MS in Computer Science thesis and non-thesis options?

The thesis option is research-focused and ideal if you’re interested in doctoral study or research roles. The non-thesis option is practice-focused and designed for professionals who want to apply advanced computer science skills directly in industry.
 

Can I complete the program while working full-time?

Yes. The program is designed to meet the needs of working professionals as well as full-time students. Many students choose the online format and take courses part-time to balance work and school.

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Questions? We're Here to Help.

If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please contact Graduate Admissions.

For the On-Campus Program

Get help with requirements, deadlines, documents and the application process for on-campus and hybrid programs.

For the Online Program

Get help with requirements, deadlines, documents and the application process for fully online programs.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Boxiang Dong

Explore the curriculum, faculty, research and outcomes. The Program Coordinator can help you connect the program to your goals.