Colorado Technical University’s Master of Science in Computer Science program is designed to provide technical depth in computer science—and in software engineering, security and database management systems. With the computerization of everything from phones and coffeemakers to cars and airplanes, companies across industries need those with computer science skills and knowledge.

This online computer science degree program offers a general track or concentrations in cybersecurity engineering or software engineering.

• Program Credits: 48
• Each Course Length: 5 Weeks

Program Overview

The MSCS program is designed to provide students with a strong and broad Computer Science related technical background as well as systematic, analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills that enable them to contribute as a professional or a subject expert to a variety of Computer Science or Software Engineering related technical roles, including but not limited to Computer and Information Research Scientists, Information Security Analysts, Computer Programmers, Software Developers, Software Quality Assurance Engineers and Testers, Computer Systems Engineers/Architects, and Computer Science Teachers.

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) degree program includes core courses which are designed to provide relevant and advanced instruction in a set of Computer Science’s most important subjects such as computer algorithm, operating system, database, security, and networking, as well as software engineering. In addition, the MSCS degree program has a General Track as well as two concentrations: Software Engineering and Cybersecurity Engineering. Each concentration provides a set of courses which are designed to equip students with additional domain knowledge such as principles, processes and methodologies, as well as best practice on how to apply relevant computer software or other computing technologies in the concentration subjects.

This program does not lead to additional licensure or certification. As such, CTU has made no determination regarding prerequisites for licensure or certification in any state or jurisdiction.

Through innovative industry-current curricula and technology-enabled student-centered teaching, the College of Computer Science, Engineering and Technology empowers students to become motivated, creative, ethical, and skillful professionals who can resolve challenges in Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, and Information Technology in order to meet the needs of the digital economy.

For the 11th consecutive year, CTU’s online Master of Science in Computer Science degree programs are ranked among the Best Online Master's in Computer Information Technology Programs by U.S. News & World Report.*

*CTU programs are ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Online Programs.

Learning Outcomes

General:

• Analyze complex computing problems and apply advanced computer science theory and software development technologies to produce computing-based solutions to non-trivial issues.
• Apply analytical and critical thinking skills to design, implement, and evaluate advanced computing-based solutions to meet the requirements in the context of Computer Science.
• Conduct and communicate results of applications research in Computer Science.