Student Learning Outcomes - The graduate with a Master of Science degree in Computer Science will use the knowledge and skills obtained in the program to:
- Apply algorithmic principles and computing theories to solve advanced problems in Computer Science.
- Apply design and development principles in construction of computer-based systems of varying complexity.
- Be able to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.
- Communicate effectively with a range of audiences, work effectively in a team environment, and demonstrate an understanding of ethical concerns related to computing.
- Recognize the need for and engage in continuing professional development.
This program is designed to produce senior computer professionals in the computer industry, and its focus is on the application of technology to solve a variety of practical problems.
Admission Requirements - Admission is granted on the basis of applicants aptitude and potential which will be evaluated through academic records, test scores and/or work experience. To be admitted to the program, a student must have a minimum undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 2.8. Candidates must complete the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) with a minimum combined score of 291 in Verbal and Quantitative reasoning Applicants must submit official GRE test scores by Educational Testing Services (ETS) directly to the University of Central Missouri. The ETS institution code for sending GRE scores to UCM is 6090, program code is 0402. Applicants with exceptional undergraduate performance may be considered with a lower GRE score. The GRE test requirement can be waived if any one of the following conditions is satisfied.
- The student is a graduate of a regionally accredited college or university with a degree in Computer Science/Information Technology/Information Systems and a GPA of 3.50 or higher.
- The student has earned an M.S. or more advanced degree in a closely related discipline.
International students whose native language is not English and do not have a US degree are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum TOEFL score of 550 (paper based) or 79 (Internet based) is required. IELTS and PTE scores are also accepted at UCM. Regular graduate students should have a band score of 6.0 in IELTS or 53 in PTE. The English requirement is waived for applicants who have completed a minimum of 60 semester credit hours or have earned a bachelor or graduate degree from an accredited college or university in the USA. Submission of a statement of purpose and three letters of recommendation is OPTIONAL for admission. They may however be required if the student applies for graduate assistantship or student worker positions. Applicants who have degrees in some non-computing fields will also be considered for admission. Students may make up their deficiencies in computer science by completing the required undergraduate background courses.
Full time students without deficiencies can expect to complete this program in two academic years.
