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    Mar 28, 2024  
American University Catalog 2021-2022 
    
American University Catalog 2021-2022 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Computer Science (MS)


Offered by the Department of Computer Science , College of Arts and Sciences , the Computer Science (MS) provides a strong foundational and practical basis for both computer science and non-computer science majors (who successfully completed a minimum of three computer science prerequisite courses). Students complete a common core course curriculum followed by a personalized program of study. They select one of three specializations: Applied Computer Science, Game and Computational Media, or Data Science. In addition, students choose a thesis option, a single or two separate capstone projects, or a combination of capstone project and internship. The program is open to both full-time and part-time students and students seeking a change in their educational path or career.

Admission to the Program


In addition to meeting the minimum university requirements for graduate study, applicants must have completed at least three computer science courses equivalent to American University’s CSC-148 Introduction to Computer Science I (4) , CSC-208 Introduction to Computer Science II (3) , and CSC-420 Algorithms and Data Structures (3) . The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) aptitude test is optional. Students entering the program without the appropriate background will be expected to take certain undergraduate courses as prerequisite work. Formal admission to the program requires a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale); grades of B or better in the three prerequisite classes; and departmental approval.

Degree Requirements


  • 30 credit hours of approved graduate work
  • Specializations: Applied Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Game and Computational Media
  • Capstone Experience: Complete 6 credit hours from internship and project or project options with grades of B or better, or 6 credit hours of CSC-797 Master’s Thesis Research (1-6)  with completed thesis

Course Requirements


Specialization (9 credit hours)


Complete one of the following specializations:

Game and Computational Media


Complete 9 credit hours from the following, or other courses approved by advisor, with no more than 6 credit hours from CSC-696 :

Capstone (6 credit hours)


Complete 6 credit hours from one of the following:

Note: Students complete the Capstone requirement over two semesters. Students start the Capstone requirement during the first semester of their program’s second year.

Project


Thesis