Computer Science (MS) – STEM Designated Degree Program
The graduate program in computer science is designed for students interested in pursuing computer science theoretically as well as practically at an advanced level. While introducing students to newly developing areas of computer science, this program emphasizes the foundations and concepts of the field. Concepts are developed rather than routine programming skills. Students are prepared for professional work in the design and implementation of software systems, database systems, operating systems, artificial intelligence, expert systems, graphics, simulation and algorithms for discrete and continuous structures that will aid in the solution of problems encountered in the scientific and business sector. The curriculum is designed to allow students to develop skills needed to achieve leadership positions in business, industry and government in computer science or in related fields that are computer science intensive. The program also prepares teachers of computer science at the two year college, high school and middle school levels.
Along with the Computer Science (MS) degree, the Computer Science department also offers a Computer Science (Combined BS/MS) degree.
Please refer to our programs of study page for a comprehensive list of all of the graduate programs offered within the university.
- Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with either:
- A major in computer science or mathematics.
- A major in science or engineering.
- Another major with an overall cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 (B) or other indications of the ability to complete the program.
- Students desiring to enter the MS in Computer Science without an appropriate background in computer science can obtain the necessary foundation in computer science and mathematics by taking courses in our prerequisite program. Upon satisfactory completion of part or all of the program, students are admitted to the Master of Science program.
The Office of Graduate Admissions requires the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree in order to be eligible to apply for a graduate program. Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the U.S. degree equivalency information.
In order to make applying for graduate school as seamless as possible for you, we have
created an application checklist. This checklist can be a reference point for you during the
application process to ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the steps
needed to apply, as well as all corresponding supplemental materials for your specific
program of interest.
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admission
- Submit Online Application: Please create your online account and submit your application by following the general application instructions and pay (or waive) the non-refundable $60 application fee. Once this step has been completed, the online portal will allow you to upload your supplemental materials.
The following is a list of the supplemental materials that will accompany your application for the Computer Science (MS) program:
- Transcript: 1 (One) from each college attended.
- Essays/Personal Statement: Please write an integrated essay providing a response to each of the following questions.
- What are your goals for graduate study and your future career?
- In what ways do your academic background and your professional experiences provide evidence of your potential for success in the program you selected and in your eventual career? Please give specific examples of relevant coursework and/or experience.
- Is there any further information we should consider in assessing your candidacy?
- Letters of Recommendation: Two.
- Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the US degree equivalency information.
This degree program is 30-49 credits. In addition, the computer science faculty has developed a sequence of courses that constitute a prerequisite program for students who do not have the appropriate background in computer science and/or mathematics. For more information, please visit the Computer Science (MS) program listing in the University Catalog.
If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please email or call us:
Office of Graduate Admissions
Email: graduate@montclair.edu
Telephone: 973-655-5147
Fax: 973-655-7869
If you have specific inquiries regarding your program of interest, please contact the Computer Science (MS) Program Coordinator:
*During the summer months, there will be a rotating department chair available to answer your inquiry. Click to find the updated summer chair for this program.*
Program Coordinator: Jiacheng Shang
Phone: 973-655-4230
Email: shangj@montclair.edu