Online Master of Science in Computer Science
Specialized degree for in-depth knowledge of Computer Science.
Students in the Master of Computer Science program acquire a thorough understanding of the essential principles of modern computing, which provides a foundation for new discoveries in the field. Building on this foundation, students develop cutting-edge technical skills, strong problem analysis abilities, and project experiences that prepare them for careers in growing industries such as artificial intelligence, DevOps, big data, cybersecurity, healthcare, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and financial services. The program employs a project-oriented curriculum and provides pathways for students with or without a computer science background.
Why UW-Whitewater Online?
- Pathways for changing careers
- Project oriented learning
- Studies in cutting-edge computing areas
- Flexible and convenient for your schedule
Fully Online
No requirements to come to campus.
Flexible
Complete courses asynchronously and part time.
Specialized
Enhance your career and expand your knowledge.
Online Master of Science in Computer Science
The MS in Computer Science program at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a 30-credit program. This program can be started in the spring, summer or fall terms, and at a pace that works best for you. Full-time students can finish in as little as three semesters.
More information on the program structure and courses can be viewed in the Graduate Catalog.
To qualify for admission to the online master’s program, you must meet graduate admission criteria.
Deadlines vary by term and are subject to change without notice. Accurate and up-to-date admission deadlines can be found on the graduate admission deadlines website.
Additional requirements for admission to the MS in Computer Science program:
- Upload a one-page personal statement describing why you want to pursue a master’s degree in computer science.
- Provide contact information (name, organization, position/title, relationship, telephone and email address) for two (2) individuals that are knowledgeable about your potential to do graduate work in computer science.
These items can be uploaded during the application process.
Students may be admitted to the program with deficiencies (prerequisites not yet completed). Identified deficiency items must be removed prior to enrollment in any graduate coursework. Courses taken to remove deficiencies may be at the undergraduate or graduate level. Credits earned to remove deficiencies will not count toward the degree requirements for the MS in Computer Science.
If you do not meet the graduate admission criteria, please email us to determine if you could be admitted on a contingent basis.
International students must meet additional criteria and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Contact us for information and assistance.
Applicants must also complete the following undergraduate courses or their equivalents before starting the master's degree:
- Data structures and at least one lower-level programming course (this requirement may be waived for students with substantial job-related programming experience)
- Discrete mathematics or discrete structures
- One semester of calculus, and
- Computer organization and assembly
This graduate program at UW-Whitewater are a superior value at $708 USD per credit for the 2024-25 academic year — whether you are a Wisconsin resident, an out-of-state student, or international student within the major. Additional fees and non-resident tuition may apply to other courses. Visit the Tuition and Fees webpage for complete information.
Course materials
Graduate students can purchase textbooks and other instructional materials through the University Bookstore or elsewhere online. Students should verify what materials are needed with their instructor.
Financial aid
Students completing a degree program may be eligible for financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, or employment. All of these make up a “Financial Aid Package” and may be offered singly or in various combinations. Since funds are limited, priority for aid is based on financial need and how promptly applications are filed. To find out, or if you have other financial aid questions, contact the financial aid staff person assigned to you or try uwwfao@uww.edu or 262-472-1130.
Like to learn more about degree options through UW-Whitewater School of Graduate Studies? There are a few ways you can get the information you need.
Visit our information sessions website to select a virtual information session related to the program you are interested in.
You can also fill out a request for information to connect with an advisor who can discuss your goals and help guide you to the right program to pursue your dreams.
Interested in taking a tour of UW-Whitewater campus? You can visit in person or virtually.
Online MS in Computer Science Emphases
The MS degree in Computer Science prepares students for leadership roles in the planning, development, testing, validation, and maintenance of software systems in a range of applied areas. Students in the program acquire a thorough understanding of the essential principles of modern computing, which provide a foundation for new discoveries in the field. Building on this foundation, students develop cutting-edge technical skills, strong problem analysis abilities, and project experiences that prepare them for careers in growing industries such as cloud computing, big data, cybersecurity, healthcare, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and financial services.
More information on the program structure and courses can be viewed in the Graduate Catalog.
The MS degree in Computer Science prepares students for leadership roles in software systems development across diverse industries, equipping them with cutting-edge technical skills, strong problem-solving abilities, and comprehensive knowledge of modern computing principles to excel in growing fields like cloud computing, cybersecurity, healthcare technology, and advanced manufacturing, with the first term available in Fall 2025.
Major Requirements - 30 units 1:
- COMPSCI 723: Mathematical and programming foundations of data science, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 732: Machine learning, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 733: Advanced algorithm design and analysis, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 761: Statistical computing and applications, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 767: Big data and data mining, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 768: Deep learning, 3 credits
Select 6-9 units from:
- COMPSCI 735: Optimization: techniques and applications, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 736: Image processing and computer vision, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 739: Matrix methods in data mining and pattern recognition, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 755: Cryptography and security protocols, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 764: Cloud computing, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 766: Advanced databases, 3 credits
- COMPSCI 776: Advanced software engineering, 3 credits
- CYBER 757: Information privacy, 3 credits
Select 3-6 units from: 2
- COMPSCI 789: Capstone project 3, 1-6 credits
- COMPSCI 799: Thesis research 4, 1-6 credits
Total Units:30
1 Students pursuing the Computer Science M.S. degree may declare either the applied research project option or the thesis option to fulfill their capstone requirement for graduation.
2 30 credits required to earn the master's degree. If only 3 credits of capstone/thesis are taken, additional elective credits will be required.
3 Students who choose the applied research project option must earn at least 3 units of COMPSCI 789.
4Students who choose the thesis option must earn at least 3 units of COMPSCI 799.
Comprehensive overview of the program will be available in the new publish of the Gradaute Catalog in summer of 2025. Review course inventory descriptions.
The MS degree in Computer Science prepares students for leadership roles in the planning, development, testing, validation, and maintenance of software systems in a range of applied areas. Students in the program acquire a thorough understanding of the essential principles of modern computing, which provide a foundation for new discoveries in the field.
More information on the program structure and courses can be viewed in the Graduate Catalog.
Online Graduate Certificate Program in Computer Science
Designed for those who have some programming experience, the online Cybersecurity graduate certificate will give you fundamental knowledge and hands-on practice in designing, maintaining, and protecting secure computing systems.
The online Cybersecurity Management graduate certificate is designed for working professionals interested in pursuing careers in cybersecurity, such as security analysts and security managers.
