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Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS)

Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS)

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The Master of Science in 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.

Program Requirements

  • Admissions Requirements

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

    An applicant with a Bachelor-level degree 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.

  • Graduation Requirements

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

  • Internship Requirements

    Westcliff University requires all students enrolled in graduate degree programs to successfully complete an internship prior to graduation. Westcliff University degrees are designed to prepare students for the workforce, and the knowledge and skills learned throughout the curriculum are directly applicable in the industries to which they are associated. Internship experiences allow students to further refine these skills through practical use with guidance, oversight, and feedback while also building a network within the industry and references for future career needs. Graduate students are encouraged to take full advantage of the opportunities afforded to them in their internship experiences and maximize their potential career placement or advancement upon graduation.

    Graduate internship courses are credit-bearing and are assessed on a Pass/Fail basis. During each internship course, students engage in direct experience per session in addition to participating in the assigned classroom activities. Students are encouraged to complete as many internship courses as they are able to in pursuit of their degree (with a maximum of one course per session). Internship opportunities exist on- and off-campus. Off-campus internships require prior university approval, and F-1 students must have Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization to participate in off-campus internships.

    Students are responsible for developing and demonstrating the skills necessary to be successful in an internship. In addition to industry knowledge, students should be prepared to demonstrate professionalism, effective communication (written, oral, and digital), and integrity while engaged in an internship. The faculty facilitating graduate internship courses assess these qualities and provide valuable feedback to students throughout the course.

Program Information

  • Required Courses

    Master of Science in Computer Science Program Required Courses - 36 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

    INT 601 Graduate Internship 1 credit hour

     

  • Course Concentrations

    Course concentrations for the Master of Science in Computer Science program will be available in the Fall Semester of 2022.

  • Course Catalog and Student Handbook
    Student Handbook/Catalog

Scholarship Opportunities

  • Scholarship Application

    As a Westcliff student, you have access to a powerful network of support from staff, faculty, alumni, and many others who take pride in investing in you. Scholarships are made possible by generous benefactors who are passionate about supporting your success.

    Apply Now
  • Scholarship Application Deadlines
    Semester Session Scholarship Deadline Start Date End Date
    FALL Session 1 07/31/21 Start: 8/30/21 End: 10/24/21
      Session 2 09/25/21 Start: 10/25/21 End: 12/19/21
    SPRING Session 3 12/04/21 Start: 01/03/22 End: 02/27/22
      Session 4 01/29/22 Start: 02/28/22 End: 04/24/22
    SUMMER Session 5 04/02/22 Start: 05/02/22 End: 06/26/22
      Session 6 05/28/22 Start: 06/27/22 End: 08/21/22
Program Requirements