Is a Master's in Computer Science Worth It?
A master's in computer science may take you two years [...]
Online education has grown so pervasive that it’s easy to forget how new it is. Not so long ago, streaming capacities restricted online programs to clunky bulletin boards and slow-loading file-sharing apps (and not much longer ago, effective online education simply wasn’t possible). Only in the past decade have computing power and bandwidths expanded enough to accommodate the media that make great online learning possible: streaming video, live online classes, and interactive apps.
Now that it’s here, don’t expect online education to go anywhere: the benefits, to both institutions and students, are simply too great. With instruction no longer confined to campus classrooms, schools can vastly increase their student bodies and, not insignificantly, their revenues. Online students love being able to attend their dream school without having to relocate. The fact that students engage online content asynchronously—i.e. anywhere, any time they can access a wifi connection—further augments the convenience of online study.
Online computer science programs vary widely in quality. All claim to be as rigorous as their on-campus counterparts, and many are, but some fall short either in commitment or execution. Check comments at sites like reddit.com and quora.com to see what students are saying about the program you’re considering. Also speak with a school admissions representative and ask to preview the online content. Different programs present material online very differently, and you want to make sure you’re comfortable in your program’s Learning Management System (LMS) before you enroll.
There are hundreds of online degree programs in computer science in the United States.
Consider these features as you winnow your list:
Admissions criteria: Does the program require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field? Does it mandate a list of prerequisite courses? A minimum GPA or GRE score? All these factors may limit your choices.
Content delivery: Is all the content delivered asynchronously, or will you be required to attend some live classes online? If so, are the live classes small-group or large-group? Small group classes (15 students are fewer) are great for getting individualized help from instructors and peers; large group classes are just an inconvenience, delivering content that should have been made available asynchronously. Also, what is the primary format for asynchronous content? Is it text? Video? Interactive apps? The more interactive and engaging the content is, the better you will learn it.
Variety of specializations/concentrations: Does the school offer any areas of specialization, or is its program one-size-fits-all? Specializations are good indicators of a program’s strengths, and, conversely, the absence of a specialization may indicate weakness in a particular area. They can also help you figure out how well the program fits your career goals.
Specialization areas can include courses in areas like:
Flexibility: Is the master’s degree program fully online, or is some in-person participation required? Will you be able to take a semester off if work or life requires, or does the program require continuous enrollment?
Thesis? Capstone project?: Does the program require a thesis option, a non-thesis or other end-of-program deliverable? More broadly, what are the degree requirements? There’s no ‘better’ option here; it’s simply a matter of personal preference.
“Typically the additional income from a master’s degree over a lifetime is worth the sticker price you pay for it.” (source)
A master’s in computer science can open countless doors from coast to coast. It will expand your knowledge and can help you advance your career, opening doors to management and leadership roles and increasing your earning potential. Jobs are plentiful around the country in a wide variety of industries, from healthcare to finance, entertainment to manufacturing.
University and Program Name | Learn More |
The University of Tennessee:
Online Master of Computer Science
|
|
Case Western Reserve University:
Master of Science in Computer Science
|
|
Stevens Institute of Technology:
Master of Science in Computer Science
|
|
Tufts University:
Master of Science in Computer Science
|
|
Merrimack College:
Master of Science in Computer Science
|
The ten online master’s programs listed below (in alphabetical order) consistently rank high across various ratings systems. All of these programs are 100 percent online (i.e. no in-person requirement) unless otherwise noted under features:
Questions or feedback? Email editor@noodle.com
A master's in computer science may take you two years [...]
Do you see a math puzzle when you look at [...]
The Internet of Things consists of connected devices capable of [...]
Program management certifications are available for all skill levels, from [...]
Many program managers,especially those in senior positions,hold a master's degree, [...]
Categorized as: Computer Science, Information Technology & Engineering