Students with an undergraduate degree in computer science (Plan A) will directly proceed to the core courses. However, the students with undergraduate degrees in fields other than computer science (Plan B) must complete 9 hours of intensive foundation courses to gain the proficiency needed in the areas of computer programming, data structures, discrete mathematics, and computer organization. After completion of the foundation courses, students in Plan B will move on to the core courses.

Both thesis and non-thesis options are available in the program leading to the Master of Science degree. Six (6) hours of project or two (2) additional electives are required in the non- thesis option.

Students can also choose from the Information Engineering (IE) or Cybersecurity Security (SE) options. The total number of hours required is 30, which includes 15 hours of core courses and 9 hours that students select from the option of their choice. In addition, the students complete 6 hours Projects (COS 796) or Thesis (COS 799), or specialty electives. The last two options are recommended for candidates who plan to pursue employment in the computer industry after completion of the master's degree or who are currently gainfully employed. The students completing the degree will have a broad knowledge in various subject areas which include Operating Systems, Computer Architecture, Networking, WEB Programming, Software Engineering, Databases, Computer Programming, Artificial Intelligence, E-commerce, Compiler Design, Computer Security, Cryptography, Multimedia Technology, Advanced Algorithms, Cryptography, Information Security, Secure System Administration, Database Security, and Network Security.

The Master of Computer Science Technology program admits only students whose preparation indicates potential for a high level of success. Regular admission may be granted on the basis of one of the following two categories of requirements. Both categories are designed to ensure that MSCST students are likely to succeed in professional graduate study also have the potential for career success in the computer science field. Admission to the program is subject to Computer Science Division Graduate Admission Committee Approval and the following requirements.