2011-2012 University Catalog 
  
2011-2012 University Catalog

Computational Science, MS


Banner Code:  SC-MS-COMP

The master’s program in computational science addresses the growing national and regional demand for trained computational scientists. It combines a solid foundation in information technology skills with computational courses in a variety of scientific areas. All courses are offered in the late afternoon or early evening to accommodate students with full-time employment outside the university.

The 30 credit hour curriculum is centered on a strong computational component, comprising 9 credits of core courses, with the remaining 21 credits taken in a broad range of scientific areas chosen from the different concentrations in the CSI PhD curriculum. This provides students with a flexible set of options that can be used to create their own customized curriculum under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Students are encouraged to undertake an optional master’s thesis or research project that allows them to gain useful experience in the development of simulations and other aspects of computational science.

This program of study is offered by the School of Physics, Astronomy, and Computational Sciences in the College of Science.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should have academic backgrounds in physical or biological sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computer science. They should have an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, with a GPA of at least 3.00 in their last 60 credits of study. In addition, applicants should have taken at least one course in differential equations and have facility in using a high-level computer programming language. To apply, prospective students should forward a completed Mason graduate application, two copies of official transcripts from each college and graduate institution attended, a current résumé, and an expanded goals statement to the COS Fairfax Campus Graduate Admissions Processing Center. Applicants should also include three letters of recommendation and an official report of scores on the GRE-GEN. The GRE-SUB is recommended if it is given in the student’s undergraduate major. The GRE requirement will be waived if the student holds a master’s degree from a U.S. institution. TOEFL scores are required of all international applicants. 

Degree Requirements


Candidates must successfully complete 30 credits as follows:

Computational electives (15 credits):


  • 15 credits of CSI courses not including CSI 796, 798, 799, and 996.

Scientific electives (6 credits):


  • Two 3-credit courses approved by the student’s advisor.
  • Students can apply 6 credits of CSI 799 (master’s thesis) or 3 credits of CSI 798 (research project) towards the elective requirement.

Total: 30 credits