Program Overview

Seattle University's Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program offers a curriculum based on theoretical foundations and practical applications. The curriculum includes advanced courses in core areas of computer science and flexible electives that align with your professional goals.

Why MSCS at Seattle University?

• Pursue Your Passion: Choose between flexible electives that align with your professional goals or two optional specializations in software engineering and data science.
• Flexibility That Fits Your Lifestyle: Evening courses, full- and part-time enrollment options offer you the flexibility to balance your education with your career.
• Path for Career Changers: Our Computer Science Fundamentals Certificate provides a bridge to the MSCS program and is ideal for those looking to break into the tech field—no prior programming experience required.
• Top Industry Connections: Strong connections to Seattle’s leading tech employers give you access to invaluable networking and career opportunities.
• Hands-On Learning: Gain firsthand experience through industry-led projects that allow you to tackle real-world problems with top organizations.

Computer Science - General Option

In the general option, you get to choose your electives. You can develop a focused or broad foundation that aligns with your interests and academic goals. There are two variations of the MSCS general option:

Course-Only 

With the MSCS course-only option, you’ll take an additional elective course and a seminar that explores state-of-the-art technology advances in computer science.

The course-only option provides you with a wide range of electives to choose from, enabling you to tailor your degree plan to your professional goals and interests. This option also provides the most flexibility with entry options in June, January and March, and the ability to complete your degree in as little as five academic quarters.

Research Project

With the research project option, you complete a faculty-supervised research project spanning 2-3 academic quarters. The research projects enable you to focus on your specific areas of interest and the research interests of faculty members.

If you choose to participate in research project opportunities, you’ll have a chance to be mentored by faculty, publish your work, and present on campus or at conferences. These projects provide distinctive opportunities to gain hands-on research experience and prepare you for career advancement or for further post-graduate education at internationally recognized institutions.