2011-2012 University Catalog
Computer Science, MS
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Banner Code: VS-MS-CS
School: Volgenau School of Engineering
Department: Computer Science
The graduate program leading to an MS in computer science prepares students for research and professional practice in computer science and related technologies. The program includes both fundamentals and advanced work in the areas of artificial intelligence and databases, programming languages and software engineering, systems and networks, theoretical computer science, and visual computing. Graduate classes are divided into basic classes, which have no graduate course prerequisite, and advanced classes, which have a graduate class as a prerequisite. Graduate classes are generally offered in the late afternoon and evening. Financial aid in the form of graduate assistantships may be available for full-time degree-seeking students.
Plan of Study
Before the end of the second semester, students must have a plan of study approved by their academic advisor. This plan should be kept up to date by regular consultation with the academic advisor. A final signed version of the plan must be included when the student submits a graduation application.
Admission Requirements
In addition to fulfilling Mason’s admission requirements for graduate study, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a baccalaureate degree that includes Data Structures and Algorithms (CS 310), Automata Theory and Formal Languages (CS 330), and Computer Architecture including Assembly Language (CS 367 and CS 465). Students also must have completed Calculus I and II and a substantial course in discrete mathematics (such as MATH 125). Students with some deficiencies in preparation may be admitted provisionally pending completion of foundation courses in mathematics or computer science. Undergraduate credit earned for this purpose may not be applied toward the graduate degree.
- Earned a cumulative GPA of 3.00 for the last two years of undergraduate work, preferably with a major in a technical field such as computer science, mathematics, physical sciences, engineering, or information systems.
- Submit transcripts of all post secondary education, a self assessment form (included in the application package or available from the department), three letters of recommendation, and an official GRE report.
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