Student in computer class looking at her desktop monitor
Student in computer class looking at her desktop monitor

Master of Science Computer Science (MSCS)

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The Master of Science Computer Science (MSCS) program is designed to advance the professional careers of technologists in the field of computer science. The program incorporates the overall infrastructure and implementation of computer science initiatives. The importance of managing computer science and software projects is the main theme of the program and involves the integration of technology, people, and strategic development. Several aspects of computer science and associated technologies, such as the benefits of emerging programming languages and technologies, project management of software initiatives, and the development cycle of computer science related to strategic planning are investigated to provide graduates with advanced insight into the field of computer science.

Mission Statement

Westcliff University’s mission for the Master of Science in Computer Science program is to prepare students to make valuable contributions in the design, development, and production of computer science solutions in the field. Graduates from the program will have an opportunity to apply computer science concepts in the context of the attainment of organizational goals that promote and sustain competitive advantage, while benefiting the field of computer science, information technology, and engineering as a whole by solving complex business problems related to contemporary industry issues.

MSCS Program Description

The Master of Science Computer Science (MSCS) program is designed to advance the professional careers of technologists in the field of computing. It presents a modern curriculum that challenges students to apply principles of design, critical and algorithmic thinking, innovation, management, and problem solving to the field of computer science. It prepares students to move into advanced careers in computer science and software by providing the necessary advanced skills and knowledge in computer systems, software, and telecommunications to effectively implement computerization processes across several industries including healthcare, manufacturing, research and development, education, finance, and other fields which require advanced computerization to remain competitive in the global economy.

The Master of Science Computer Science is a 36 credit program consisting of 12 courses (3 credits each) that is taken over the course of 24 months.

MSCS Program Learning Outcomes

MSCS Program Learning Outcomes

Apply principles of design, critical, and algorithmic thinking, innovation, management, and problem-solving to the field of computer science. The MSCS program prepares students to move into advanced careers in computer science and software design by providing practical skills to develop and construct computer software and applications.

The Master of Science Computer Science program encourages students to achieve the following educational outcomes:

1
Create software requirements and specifications, in the design and development of complex software systems.
2
Evaluate computer systems and improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness by incorporating value computing methodologies.
3
Analyze, design and develop database structures and solutions that can be readily implemented.
4
Analyze and design complex front-end applications by considering operating systems and computer architectures that interoperate with back-end systems.
5
Compare and contrast data structures best suited for data management and retrieval.
6
Create and develop the ability to conduct in-depth research, independently or within the enterprise in a broad range of computer science.
7
Create, innovate, design, and improve algorithms for exceptional data processing and analysis.

Course Information

  • Admissions Requirements

    The minimum academic requirements to apply to the Master of Science Computer Science Degree Program are:

    1. Degree Applicants – An applicant with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related fields from a regionally or nationally accredited institution can apply for entrance into Westcliff University. Undergraduate degrees obtained outside of the United States will only be accepted if they have been evaluated by a member in-good-standing of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or another nationally recognized credentialing service. In this case, the listed U.S. degree equivalency will be used. Applicants must also provide a copy of their resume or curriculum vitae with a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience.
    2. Transfer Applicants – Applicants who have earned credit hours from a graduate program in a related field from a regionally or nationally accredited institution may transfer up to six (6) semester credit hours to Westcliff University College of Business subject to evaluation of grades and courses.
  • Graduation Requirements

    Students must complete thirty-six (36) prescribed credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, meet all academic and financial requirements upon graduation, and the fulfillment of all graduation requirements. Students must apply (petition) for graduation and upon approval, students will receive the degree reflecting the coursework completed.

Course Listings

  • Program Courses

    MSCS Core Course Requirements (36 Credit Hours)

    Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
    MSCS 600 Software Quality Metrics 3 credit hours
    MSCS 601 Principles of Data Management 3 credit hours
    MSCS 602 Modern Operating Systems 3 credit hours
    MSCS 603 Computer Systems Architecture 3 credit hours
    MSCS 604 Software Engineering Concepts 3 credit hours
    MSCS 605 Java Web Applications 3 credit hours
    MSCS 606 Web Services Development & XML 3 credit hours
    MSCS 610 .NET Programming 3 credit hours
    MSCS 612 Software Test Automation & Tools 3 credit hours
    MSCS 624 Telecommunications & Networking 3 credit hours
    MSCS 690 Big Data Analytics 3 credit hours
    MSCS 693 Applied Computer Science Capstone Project 3 credit hours
Course Information