Computer Science Master's Program
ÀϾÅÆ·²è is one of the nation top-ranked computer science programs, and our graduates have gone on to work on some of the most innovative companies in the world.
Our two-year master will equip you with the skills to succeed in a variety of industry domains. Within the professional MS program, we offer eight different specializations to help you can tailor your studies to your interests, including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Algorithms, Network and Optimization
- Data Science and Engineering
- Human-Centered Computing
- Numerical Computation
- Robotics
- Security
- Software Systems and Cloud Computing
Our applied learning approach is so effective that 95% of our graduates find immediate work at some of the leading companies in the world, with most earning over $120,000 annually.Ìý
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Career Outcomes
95% of our grads gain employment in their chosen fields and typically earn over $120,000/year.
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Reputation
ÀϾÅÆ·²è is the No. 11 ranked public graduate engineering school in the nation.
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Diverse Specializations
Choose from eight different specializationsÌýcovering broad domains in applied computer sciences.
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Location
Access the Denver-Boulder tech corridor, one of the nation most entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Start Your Graduate Journey
Fill out this form to learn more about this program.
Student Spotlights
ÌýÌýThe courses spanned a wide variety of domains and the faculty had an amazing grasp on the subject matter. I formed a great network with peers in my cohort, and there were lots of internship opportunities and department jobs available. The best part was living in Boulder —Ìýyou can’t ask for more than that!ÌýÌý
Raj Chandax
ÌýÌýI chose ÀϾÅÆ·²è because it offered a wide variety of AI and ML courses, and the flexibility to shape my own path. The professors have strong research backgrounds, the labs are well equipped, and Boulder startup culture adds even more opportunities outside the classroom.ÌýÌý
Harini Padamata
ÌýÌýSwitching from industry back into academia after seven years was daunting, but the faculty support here has been extraordinary. Professors like Dr. Sriram Sankaranarayanan and Dr. Esther Rolf have challenged me to grow in ways I never imagined.ÌýÌý
Ankur Verma
Choose Your Pathway in Computer Science
We offer two exciting options to help you achieve your goals and advance your career.
| Professional MS | Traditional MS |
|---|---|
| Industry-focused | Research-focused |
| Designed for working engineers or students aiming to advance in industry through a coursework-only path. | Designed for students pursuing careers with a research component or planning to continue into a PhD. |
| Choose from 8 highly focused specializations or a general track. | Build a broader foundation through a variety of electives. |
| 30 credits | 30 credits |
| 2 years/potentially less via Coursera | 2 years |
| Coursework-only | Thesis or non-thesis options |
| ~100 students enrolled per semester | ~50 students enrolled per semester |
| Can be pursued full-time or part-time | Can be pursued full-time or part-time |
| On-campus or online via Coursera | On-campus |
Not sure which path is right for you? Contact our graduate advisors for the or the to discuss your career goals and determine the best fit.
Broaden Your Horizons. Expand Your Opportunities.
We offer a variety of options within the professional MS to help you achieve your goals and advance your career.Ìý
All programs include a mix of core competencies, applied projects and electives.Ìý
Professional Specializations Available
Prepare for a career in AI engineering, one of the most in-demand careers across industry today. In addition to the program core competencies and applied projects, choose from electives in data architecture, advanced robotics, machine learning, computer vision, probabilistic models, neural networks, natural language processing and more.Ìý
Algorithm engineering is a high-profile, AI-adjacent position that involves algorithmic creation, installation and analysis, often for evaluatory purposes. After establishing a foundation in core competencies and applied projects, you’ll choose from electives focusing on practical algorithmic complexity, theories of computation, linear programming, computational complexity theory, algorithmic economics and more.
Develop the programming and analytic skills needed to build and maintain data-processing infrastructure. As you build your core competencies and complete applied projects, you’ll also explore electives in network analysis and modeling, data mining, linear programming, big data architecture, high-performance scientific computing, machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing and more.Ìý
This specialization focuses on improving peoples’ interactions with technological advances. While working on applied projects and completing the core competencies, you’ll be able to explore electives in algorithmic human-robot interactions, graphics and animation, user-centered design and development, online communities and open collaboration, information ethics and policy, assistive technologies and more.Ìý
Address complex engineering problems through the intersection of mathematics, analysis and programming skills. In addition to the core competencies and applied projects, you’ll be able to take courses in advanced computer graphics, quantum computing and information, principles of numerical computation, linear programming, numerical optimization, high-performance scientific computing and more.
Learn to design, build and maintain robotic systems across diverse industry settings. While completing applied projects and core competency, you’ll also explore electives in algorithmic human-robot interactions, machine learning, theoretical foundations of autonomous systems, robot perception, computer vision, optimization control, uncertainty quantification, probability for computer science and more.
Develop the technical skills needed to protect digital assets across diverse industry settings. You’ll establish a strong foundation in core competencies and complete several applied projects, then pursue electives in computer security and ethical hacking, secure computer architecture, digital forensics, embedded cybersecurity, Linux system administration, software reverse engineering and more.Ìý
Build an engineering career that incorporates programming, database management and cloud platform technologies. As you ground yourself in core competencies and complete applied projects, you’ll also choose from electives in network systems, fundamental concepts of programming languages, database and distributed systems, advanced operating systems, computer security and ethical hacking and more.
The general track is a flexible approach that will help you establish a solid foundation in computer science while allowing you to pursue your interests and passions across various domains. You’ll be able to take classes from each of the specializations, as well as two non-computer science courses, all while broadening your skills across multiple competencies.
Faculty Spotlights
Costs & Financial Information
A master's degree from the College of Engineering and Applied Science represents a valuable investment in your career potential. While costs vary by program, residency status and enrollment type, we're committed to transparency in helping you plan for this important step.
- Tuition structure: Engineering master's programs have different rate structures based on program type, delivery method and course load
- ROI consideration: Most graduates recoup their educational investment within 2.5 years of completing their degree
- Flexible options: Many programs offer part-time enrollment, allowing you to distribute costs while maintaining employment
- Scholarships and fellowships: Program-specific opportunities are rare, and funding for master students is not guaranteed; master students should plan on providing their own resources to finance their education
- Assistantships: Professional master students are not eligible for teaching or research assistantships, but are eligible for on-campus hourly positions that do not include tuition remission
- Employer benefits: Many companies provide tuition assistance for job-relevant graduate education
- Military benefits: Veterans and active-duty military personnel can utilize GI Bill benefits for qualified programs
For detailed, current information about costs specific to your program of interest and payment options, we recommend visiting the ÀϾÅÆ·²è Bursar's Office.
Admissions Requirements & Application Information
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Your prior studies must include at least four, one-semester courses in computer science. Courses should cover hardware requirements (computer systems), software requirements (principles of programming languages or operating systems), and theory (data structures, and either algorithms or theories of computation).
- Your prior studies must include at least three, one-semester courses in mathematics. This can include calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, probability, statistics and abstract algebra, that indicate your mathematical maturity.
- Statement of purpose outlining your goals and interests.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Resume/CV highlighting relevant experience.
- Fall admission: December 15
- We do not offer spring admissions.
- Whether you are a U.S. citizen or international applicant, .
- All applications are evaluated by faculty in the spring and admissions decisions are announced by the end of March.
Explore Related Programs
If you’re not sure this is the program for you, we offer several related degree options for you to consider:
This flexible, 12-month program is designed for working professionals and will give you a solid foundation in embedded systems, power electronics, photonics, optics and more.
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ÌýBuild Your Future
Boulder is rich with industry opportunities in aerospace, technology, renewable energies, defense, quantum computing and more.
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Build Your Community
Be part of a collaborative community while studying at one of the nation preeminent engineering programs.
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Build Your Life
Boulder provides an amazing quality of life with easy access to the outdoors and a vibrant downtown.
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Expand your future and discover what makes us Boulder.
Join an energized, collaborative community where groundbreaking research, expert mentorship and real-world experience unlock limitless possibilities.
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