Earn Your MCS Degree
The Master of Computer Science is a course-based program for students who wish to enhance their careers with advanced knowledge of computer science. Students completing their M.C.S. go on to positions in the software industry or to Ph.D. programs. Learning outcomes include:
- an in-depth and up-to-date knowledge of concepts and/or technologies covering a breadth of computer science;
- ability to solve problems in the context of the areas covered;
- a grounding in theoretical aspects of Computer Science; and exposure to cutting-edge research.
More about the MCS degree
Degree Requirements
The Master of Computer Science requires a minimum of 32 s.h. of graduate credit, including at least 24 s.h. earned at the University of Iowa. Students must maintain a minimum 2.75 grade point average to remain in good standing with the Graduate College. The Department of Computer Science expects students to maintain a 3.00 GPA across their graduate degree program and students must have at minimum a 2.75 to graduate with the MCS degree
The Master of Computer Science (M.C.S.) is a professionally-oriented, course-based, non-research program for students who wish to enhance their careers with advanced knowledge of computer science.
Current and prospective graduate students should consult the Computer Science Graduate Student Handbook, also available from the department's office. The handbook provides detailed information about specific degree requirements, such as required courses, examinations, and dissertation requirements.
Listed below are the general categories of coursework required to earn the degree; for more specific information on courses, curriculum, and requirements of the Master of Computer Science, visit the UI General Catalog.
| Title | Hours |
|---|---|
| Theory Course | 3 |
| Algorithms Course | 3 |
| Colloquium series | 2 |
| Additional Upper-Level Electives | 24 |
| Total Hours | 32 |
Admission
Admission decisions are based on prior academic performance, letters of reference, and the applicant's statement about background and purpose. Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate College; see the Manual of Rules and Regulations of the Graduate College on the Graduate College website. For more information, see the Graduate Admissions Process page.
Software Engineering Sub-Program
The Department of Computer Science, with the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, offers an M.C.S. subprogram in software engineering. Students receive a software engineering subprogram designation on their transcript after they complete four (4) additional computer science courses in software engineering, and earn their M.C.S. degree. Students should meet with the academic services coordinator to file the appropriate paperwork when they apply for degree, if they did not originally declare their intent to complete the software engineering subprogram. For more information, see the General Catalog link below.
Important Deadlines
Application Deadline: January 1st (for Fall semester enrollment)
Create your academic path
You'll find degree overviews, requirements, course lists, academic plans, and more to help you plan your education and explore your possibilities.
Current course list
The MyUI Schedule displays registered courses for a particular session and is available to enrolled students. The list view includes course instructors, time and location, and features to drop courses or change sections.