MCS Computer Science

The online Master of Computer Science (MCS) is designed for those interested in expanding their knowledge of computer science and computation. In this program, you’ll gain an advanced understanding of topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and big data, while strengthening your skills through technical projects.

The program reflects the dual nature of computer science as a scientific and engineering discipline by allowing emphasis on theory as well as practical applications.

Attendance type

Full-time

Credit hours

Study method

Online

STEM-OPT option

Not available

Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering

The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University is the largest and most comprehensive engineering program in the United States, with 31,752 students enrolled in Fall 2023 and 209 National Merit Scholars for 2022-23. Recognized for its excellence, the school ranks #2 for its online Master's in Electrical Engineering and #34 overall for undergraduate engineering programs (U.S. News & World Report, 2024).

Students at the Fulton Schools benefit from a globally diverse student body, bringing a wide range of perspectives and ideas to tackle the world's most significant challenges through engineering and technology.

ASU degree pathways

Students enrolled at an ASU Cintana Alliance Network institution have the chance to start their courses at their home institution and transfer those credits* to finish their remaining years at ASU.

Models available: Graduate dual degree and accelerated masters.

Courses at home university

CSE 565: Software Verification, Validation and Testing

CSE 598: Software Integration and Engineering

Courses at ASU

Required Core Area – Applications (3)

Required Core Area – Foundations (3)

Required Core Area – Systems (3)

Electives (21)

*Transfer eligibility is subject to student performance in courses at home institution and Arizona State University transfer requirements.

Featured courses

Information Assurance and Security

Comprehensive understanding of information assurance and security problems with the solutions as well as hands-on experiences about applying these solutions.

Software Security

Theories and tools for software security, including secure design, threat analysis and modeling, security testing and coding.

Advanced Computer Network Security

Comprehensive understanding of network security and corresponding solutions, including cryptography, access control, secure Web transactions, e-mail security and viruses.

Career opportunities and applicable roles

The MCS Computer Science program is designed to build your knowledge about a range of topics from designing software for networks, graphics and database systems to integrating computer science with biology, geography, public health and more.

Computer Network Architect

Computer System Analyst

Computer Systems Engineer

Data Scientist or Engineer

Machine Learning, AI or Computer Vision Engineer

Software Engineer

Software Developer

2025-26 Important dates and deadlines

Program Start	Application Deadline	Classes Begin	Tuition Payment Deadline
Spring start (January)	December 11, 2024	January 13, 2025	January 25, 2025
Fall start (August)	July 25, 2025	August 21, 2025	August 27, 2025
Spring start (January)	December 11, 2025	January 12, 2026	January 25, 2026