Program highlights
- Outstanding faculty. Class sizes are purposely kept small to promote quality learning experiences with our highly qualified faculty.
- Relevant, current curriculum. The computer science field is at the forefront of innovation. Our curriculum keeps pace with the latest trends in data science, cybersecurity, digital forensics and software engineering.
- Research opportunities. BGSU computer science professors are active researchers. Student research is encouraged through graduation projects in a variety of fields, including cloud computing, machine learning, machine vision, bioinformatics and application in areas like security and healthcare.
- Flexibility for working professionals. Courses are conveniently offered during the day and in the evening.
- Collaborative project experience. Hands-on computer science and software engineering projects give you the experience and skills you need to build a strong portfolio and boost your job marketability.
- Travel grants. Apply for graduate student travel grants to attend computer science conferences or further your thesis research.
- Valuable industry connections. Gain meaningful internship experiences at top companies with strong IT and software divisions, such as Ernst & Young, American Greetings, Progressive, Marathon, Owens Corning and more.
- Personalized career paths. Combine your master’s in computer science with any other degree, such as mathematics, journalism, business or technology management.
- Expanded professional opportunities. Graduates with a master’s degree in computer science are prepared to work in the computing industry, take on leadership roles, receive pay increases and promotions, teach computer science courses or gain admission into Ph.D. programs.
Average median salary for computer and information research scientists with a master’s degree is 200% higher than the average in the U.S. for all occupations.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career opportunities
The job market for computer science professionals is booming – with no signs of a slowdown anytime soon. A master’s degree not only elevates your knowledge, but also opens doors to prestigious and well-compensated positions that would otherwise require years of industry experience.
Graduates with a Master of Science in computer science frequently pursue careers in:
- AI/machine learning
- Data science
- Cybersecurity
- Software development and engineering
- Cloud computing
- IT Management
The work of computer scientists with high-level insights is used to:
- Fuel technological innovation and growth
- Protect data privacy and cybersecurity
- Help advance healthcare and biotechnology
- Empower environmental sustainability efforts
- Enhance education accessibility
- Shape the future of artificial intelligence and ethics
Career paths
- Software engineer
- Machine learning engineer
- Operations research and optimization
- Computer engineer
- Computer and information research scientist
- Network security engineer
- High performance computing (HPC) scientist
Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Curriculum
Students in the computer science master’s program must complete at least 30 hours of graduate-level coursework. Graduates are prepared to:
- Perform research, discovery and integration by applying advanced knowledge of computer science
- Critically analyze a body of current, published research in an area of computer science
- Evaluate algorithmic and/or software-based solutions to a given problem
Micro-credential badges to showcase expertise
Complete three targeted courses to earn a micro-credential badge in software engineering or cybersecurity. The badges provide a focused pathway to gain industry-relevant expertise, boost career readiness and earn professional credentials.
- Micro-credential badge in software engineering. A micro-credential badge in software engineering focuses on advanced coursework in software development methodologies, software design and quality assurance and management. Badge holders have acquired the skills, practices and tools necessary to develop complex and efficient software systems.
- Micro-credential badge in cybersecurity. The micro-credential badge in cybersecurity highlights intensive study in cybersecurity principles, encompassing both traditional and mobile computing perspectives. Badge earners are equipped with technical expertise, analytical skills and leadership capabilities in cybersecurity.
Culminating experience
Students in the master’s in computer science degree program have one of three options for their culminating experience:
- Thesis. Includes 3-6 hours of computer science thesis research and/or 3 hours of independent study and internship or approved graduate-level coursework in other departments.
- Project. Includes 3 hours of directed research and up to 3 hours of independent study.
- Internship. Department-approved internship or co-op.
Sample courses
- Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- Artificial Intelligence Methods
- Computer and Network Security
- Network Architecture and Applications
- Database Management Systems
- Computer Systems Security
- Visualization
- Big Data Analytics
The Master of Science in computer science program is in the Computer Science Department in the BGSU College of Arts and Sciences.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the graduate degree, students in Computer Science are expected to be able to:
- Perform research, discovery and integration by applying advanced knowledge of computer science (CS 6910/6990)
- Critically analyze a body of current, published research in an area of computer science.
- Evaluate algorithmic and/or software-based solutions to a given problem.
Accreditation and/or Program/Cluster Review
Bowling Green State University [BGSU] is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. BGSU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 01/01/1916. The most recent reaffirmation of accreditation was received in 2012 - 2013. Questions should be directed to the Office of Institutional Effectiveness.
The Computer Science program is accredited by the Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET) and is in good standing.
Professional Licensure (If applicable)
Bowling Green State University programs leading to licensure, certification and/or endorsement, whether delivered online, face-to-face or in a blended format, satisfy the academic requirements for those credentials set forth by the State of Ohio.
Requirements for licensure, certification and/or endorsement eligibility vary greatly from one profession to another and from state to state. The Computer Science program does not lead to professional licensure.
Gainful Employment (If applicable)
Under the Higher Education Act Title IV disclosure requirements, an institution must provide current and prospective students with information about each of its programs that prepares students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation.
The Computer Science program is not a recognized occupation that requires a Gainful Employment disclosure.
Updated: 12/09/2024 04:27PM