MS Computer Science at Arizona State University

Programme overview

The on-campus Master of Science program in computer science provides rigorous, research-focused training in theory, systems and applications, preparing you to advance the frontiers of computing --- including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum computing and other novel paradigms. Unlike the industry-oriented Master of Computer Science program, the MS program in computer science emphasizes fundamental and applied research.

What you will study

30 credit hours - course-based master's, or 30 credit hours and a thesis, or 30 credit hours including the required applied project course (CSE 593) COURSE-BASED OPTION Required Core Areas (9 credit hours) applications (3) foundations (3) systems (3) Electives (21 credit hours) OPTIONS WITH CULMINATING EXPERIENCE Required Core Areas (9 credit hours) applications (3) foundations (3) systems (3) Electives (15 or 18 credit hours) Culminating Experience (3 or 6 credit hours) CSE 593 Applied Project (3) or CSE 599 Thesis (6) Additional Curriculum Information Students should see the academic unit for the list of courses approved for each core area in applications, foundations and systems.

Career pathways

Graduates are able to analyze key theories, algorithms and software modules used in the field of computer science. They are prepared to pursue careers in research and education, including academia, government and industry. Career examples: computer network architect, computer system analyst, computer systems engineer, data scientist or engineer, machine learning, AI or computer vision engineer, software developer, software engineer.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, computer engineering or a closely related area from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program. All applicants must submit: graduate admission application and application fee official transcripts a statement of purpose proof of English proficiency Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. Before applying to the program, students must have completed two semesters or six credit hours of calculus, equivalent to Calculus I and II. Completion of a discrete math course is also recommended before admission.

Domestic applicants: USD 13,327 a year (2026-27). Arizona resident tuition. Tuition only for the graduate on-campus (Tempe/Downtown Phoenix/Polytechnic/West Valley) rate band in the ASU tuition estimator, 2026-27: Fall 2026 plus Spring 2027 term tuition summed (full-time flat rate; part-time credit loads Source

International applicants: USD 24,780 a year (2026-27). International tuition. Tuition only for the graduate on-campus (Tempe/Downtown Phoenix/Polytechnic/West Valley) rate band in the ASU tuition estimator, 2026-27: Fall 2026 plus Spring 2027 term tuition summed (full-time flat rate; part-time credit loads ar Source

Entry terms: Fall, Spring and Summer; the terms available for each programme are listed in Degree Search.

Graduate application deadlines are set by each programme office and listed in Degree Search; the application opens almost a year before the start term. The nonrefundable application fee is $75 for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, DACA and international online students outside the U.S., and $120 for international students on a nonimmigrant visa studying in the U.S. Apply with ASU's graduate application (Law applicants use the law college's site); GRE/GMAT requirements vary by programme.

Apply through the official page: https://admission.asu.edu/apply/graduate/admission

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