HELP 2014-2015 University Catalog Computational Science, MS Print-Friendly Page

Banner Code:  SC-MS-COMP

The master’s program in computational science addresses the growing demand for trained computational scientists and engineers, and data scientists. It combines a solid foundation in information technology skills with computational courses in a variety of scientific and engineering areas where large-scale simulation, data analysis, and high performance computing play a central role.

Working with an advisor, a student may choose to pursue an area of emphasis. Typical areas of emphasis are:

• Modeling & Simulation: intended for students who wish to learn computational solution techniques for modeling and simulation of scientific and engineering phenomena.
• Data Science: intended for students who wish to learn computational methods for acquiring, extracting, and analyzing large-scale data obtained by observations, experiments, modeling, and database searches.
• Transportation Safety: intended for students who wish to gain skills in modeling and simulation analysis for automotive crashworthiness and occupant safety, as well as other impact related applications.

Students may also combine areas of emphasis to create their own customized curriculum under the guidance of a faculty advisor.

Most of the courses are offered in the late afternoon or early evening to accommodate students with full-time employment outside of the university.

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

Admission Requirements

Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study  as specified in the Admission  section of this catalog. Applicants to the master’s degree in computational science 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 complete the online application, supply two copies of official transcripts from each university attended, a current résumé, and an expanded goals statement. Applicants should also provide 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. For more information, see the Admission of International Students  section in the Admission  section.