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Computer Science, MS

Gain cutting-edge expertise with our Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS). Through flexible electives aligned with your career goals, or two optional areas of specialization in data science or software engineering, the MSCS prepares you to excel in today’s fiercely competitive tech industry.

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About this Program

Gain the Skills to Thrive in Tech

Seattle University's Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program offers a curriculum based on theoretical foundations and practical applications. The curriculum includes advanced courses in core areas of computer science and flexible electives that align with your professional goals.

Why MSCS at Seattle University?

  • Flexibility That Fits Your Lifestyle: Evening courses and full- and part-time enrollment options offer you the flexibility to balance your education with your career.
  • Tailor Your Education: Choose flexible electives and two optional areas of specialization in data science and software engineering to align your education with your career goals.
  • Top Industry Connections: Strong connections to Seattle’s leading tech employers give you access to invaluable networking and career opportunities.
  • Hands-On Learning: Gain firsthand experience through industry-led projects that allow you to tackle real-world problems with top organizations.
  • Path for Career Changers: Our Computer Science Fundamentals Certificate provides a bridge to the MSCS program and is ideal for those looking to break into the tech field—no prior programming experience required.

Transition to Semester Calendar

Begin your graduate program on the quarter system before Summer 2027 and continue your studies as Seattle University transitions to a semester calendar. The university is planning for a smooth transition so you can stay on track toward your degree. Learn more about the Graduate Programs Move to Semesters.

No Application Fee

We are committed to removing barriers to graduate education by waiving the application fee for all applicants.

Graduate Computer Science Degree At A Glance

Here's everything you need to know about the MS in Computer Science program at Seattle University, including detailed information about the various degree tracks, learning outcomes and information for international students.

In the general option, you’ll choose from a wide range of electives to build a focused or broad foundation based on your interests and academic goals. The MSCS general option includes two tracks: the course-only track and the research project track. See below for a sample plan of study for the course-only track.

In the MSCS course-only track, the wide range of electives allows you to tailor your degree plan to your professional goals and interests.

Sample Plan of Study

Year 1

Fall Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5110 - Fundamentals of Software Engineering
  • CPSC XXXX - Software Development (course code TBD)
  • Elective

Spring Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5200 - Software Architecture and Design
  • CPSC XXXX - Applied Algorithms (course code TBD)
  • Elective
Year 2

Fall Semester (6 credits)

  • CPSC XXXX - Systems (course code TBD)
  • Elective

Spring Semester (6 credits)

  • CPSC 5800 - Ethics and Industry Trends
  • Elective

In the general option, you’ll choose from a wide range of electives to build a focused or broad foundation based on your interests and academic goals. The MSCS general option includes two tracks: the course-only track and the research project track. See below for a sample plan of study for the research project track.

With the MSCS research project track, you’ll complete a faculty-supervised research project spanning two semesters. You’ll have the opportunity to focus on your specific areas of interest, work closely with a faculty mentor, publish your work and present your research on campus or at conferences. This track provides hands-on research experience that can prepare you for career advancement or further post-graduate study.

Sample Plan of Study

Year 1

Fall Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5110 - Fundamentals of Software Engineering
  • CPSC XXXX - Software Development (course code TBD)
  • Elective

Spring Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5200 - Software Architecture and Design
  • CPSC XXXX - Applied Algorithms (course code TBD)
  • Elective
Year 2

Fall Semester (6 credits)

  • CPSC 5990 - Graduate Research Project I
  • CPSC XXXX - Systems (course code TBD)

Spring Semester (6 credits)

  • CPSC 5991 - Graduate Research Project II
  • CPSC 5800 - Ethics and Industry Trends

The MSCS specialization in software engineering (MSCS-SE) gives you the opportunity to develop advanced skills across the software development life cycle, from requirements analysis and architecture to development and testing. You’ll build your expertise through specialized software engineering courses and a capstone project focused on real-world challenges in the field. See below for a sample plan of study.

Sample Plan of Study

Year 1

Fall Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5110 - Fundamentals of Software Engineering
  • CPSC XXXX - Software Development (course code TBD)
  • CPSC XXXX - Applied Algorithms (course code TBD)

Spring Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5200 - Software Architecture and Design
  • CPSC XXXX - Systems (course code TBD)
  • Elective
Year 2

Fall Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5210 - Software Testing and Debugging
  • CPSC 5871 - Capstone I
  • Elective

Spring Semester (6 credits)

  • CPSC 5800 - Ethics and Industry Trends
  • CPSC 5872 - Capstone II

The MSCS specialization in data science (MSCS-DS) gives you the opportunity to develop advanced computer science skills with a focus on data science. You’ll build your expertise through specialized data science courses and a capstone project focused on real-world challenges in the field. See below for a sample plan of study.

Sample Plan of Study

Year 1

Fall Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5305 - Intro to Data Science
  • CPSC XXXX - Software Engineering (course code TBD)
  • Data Science Elective

Spring Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5610 - Artificial Intelligence
  • CPSC XXXX - Software Development (course code TBD)
  • Data Science Elective
Year 2

Fall Semester (9 credits)

  • CPSC 5520 - Distributed Systems
  • CPSC 5310 - Machine Learning
  • CPSC 5331 - Big Data Analytics

Spring Semester (6 credits)

  • CPSC 5800 - Ethics and Industry Trends
  • CPSC 5830 - Data Science Capstone 

This program is approved by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to fall within the definition of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).

If you are an F-1 nonimmigrant student who has completed 12 months of post-completion Optional Practical Training, receiving a degree in a DHS-approved STEM program means you are eligible for a 24-month OPT extension. To learn more, please speak to a Seattle University international admissions counselor.

All Tracks and Specializations Outcomes

  • Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of core areas and advanced topics in computer science.
  • An ability to design, implement and evaluate computer-based solutions to meet a given set of requirements.
  • An ability to effectively communicate technical concepts in written and oral form.
  • An ability to make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal, ethical and social considerations.
  • An ability to understand computer science literature to maintain professional currency.

Data Science Specialization Outcomes

  • Demonstrate a solid foundation in core areas of data science theory and practice including data analysis methodologies, machine learning, and best practice in data visualization and presentation of analysis results and conclusions.
  • Demonstrate theoretical and practical skills in the systems and software engineering needed to process large data sets.

Software Engineering Specialization Outcomes

  • Demonstrate a solid foundation in core areas of software engineering theory and practice including all areas of the software development life cycle.
  • An ability to function effectively on teams to establish goals, plan tasks, meet deadlines, manage risk and produce deliverables.

What You’ll Learn

Explore the classes you’ll take as a student here.

Please note: the course catalog shows courses for the 2026-2027 academic year under a quarter calendar system.

Course Catalog

Career Outlook

10%+

Projected Job Growth

Demand for software developers and other tech professionals is projected to grow by more than 10 percent nationwide over the next decade (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2026).

19.7%

Average Salary Increase

Tech professionals with a master’s degree earn an average of almost 20 percent more than those with only a bachelor’s (National Association of Colleges and Employers, 2025).

#3

Best City for STEM Careers

Seattle is the third-best US city for STEM professionals according to a new study comparing the number of job openings for STEM graduates, median wages, quality of life and more (WalletHub, 2026).

Virtual Information Sessions

Have questions about Seattle University's Master of Science in Computer Science? Attend a one-hour virtual information session to learn more about graduate programs in the College of Science and Engineering, meet a knowledgeable admissions representative, and get answers to your questions about the program, the application process and more.

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Ready for Seattle’s Top Tech Jobs

A photo-illustration showing logos of major tech employers partnering with students — highlighting Seattle University’s industry collaboration for career-ready AI skills.

Industry Connections That Power Real-World Learning

The MS in Computer Science program is designed in collaboration with leaders across the tech industry, ensuring students develop the technical and professional skills employers are looking for today. Through our Industry Advisory Board, experienced professionals help shape the curriculum, provide mentorship opportunities and keep learning grounded in real-world computing applications.

Students also gain hands-on experience through Seattle University’s Project Center, where they complete industry-led capstone projects as part of their applied learning experience. Working in small teams, students apply classroom learning to real-world computing challenges while building connections with employers across the region. Graduates go on to careers with companies including Amazon, Microsoft, Google and many others.

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Inclusive, Global Education

As a student at Seattle University, you'll have the opportunity to learn in one of the largest and most culturally diverse independent universities in the Northwest. Our Jesuit values mean we see the world through a global, justice-focused lens. Our strong commitment to diversity and low student-to-faculty ratio help create a forward-thinking, close-knit community where everyone can feel at home—and go on to thrive in a global workforce.

Graduate Computer Science Students Working in a Small Group

A Pathway for Career Changers

Interested in the MS in Computer Science but don't have a background in programming? Seattle University's Computer Science Fundamentals Certificate is designed for career changers and professionals from any academic background. With no prior programming experience required, the certificate provides the foundational knowledge needed to transition into graduate-level computer science study. Qualified students who successfully complete the certificate can continue directly into the MS in Computer Science program.

Hear from Our Alumni

Class of 2026 MSCS graduate, Karthikeya Panangipalli, shares his experience as a student in the program.

Featured Faculty

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Get in Touch

If you have any questions about the program or application, we’re here to help.

Destiny Ledesma

Senior Admissions Counselor

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