M.S. Computer and Information Sciences

The graduate Master of Science program in Computer and Information Sciences is focused on providing excellence in instruction, research innovation, and professional workforce service in computer science, cybersecurity, information systems, and software engineering in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.

Goals:

• Education: Preparing the next generation of scholars and professionals capable of conducting basic research and extending the current knowledge base in the discipline
• Research: Discovering and disseminating new knowledge in the field of computer science
• Innovation: Preparing innovators who can communicate their ideas and who understand their responsibilities as computer and information science professionals in a global society

The graduate program enhances the undergraduate program in Computer Science through advanced coursework and encourages creative research and scholarship thinking.

Contact: gradcs@cofc.edu

Program Specializations

Our comprehensive curriculum provides students with a solid foundation in computer and information sciences while offering four specializations to cater to different career goals.

• Software Engineering Specialization:

  Address the increasing demand for software professionals. Acquire knowledge of the latest technologies and software engineering aspects. Prepare for senior management, executive positions, or entrepreneurship.

• Cybersecurity Specialization:

  Meet the growing need for cybersecurity experts. Delve into current technologies, tools, and behavioral and managerial aspects of cybersecurity. Seek roles as red team penetration testers, blue team information system defenders, and positions within federal intelligence and national security agencies.

• Information Systems Specialization:

  Develop essential technological and managerial skills for information system professionals. Gain expertise in databases, distributed systems, and the latest technologies and tools. Prepare for roles such as senior database administrators, managers, information architects, or entrepreneurship.

• Computer Science specialization:

  Cater to your aspirations in computer science research. Gain advanced knowledge of computer science theory and emerging technologies. Prepare for Ph.D. programs or research and development positions in industry or labs.

Designed for you

• Quality: Our program meets the highest standards of quality and excellence.
• Joint program with The Citadel: Our collaboration with The Citadel combines the strengths of two renowned institutions, enhancing the educational experience. Our experienced faculty includes accomplished researchers, software engineers, database experts, and cybersecurity professionals from industry.
• Flexible schedule: Attend evening classes once a week, allowing you to balance work and studies effectively.
• Convenient locations: Small in-person courses on location at the College of Charleston Harbor Walk and The Citadel main campus, some hybrid and online options available.
• Efficient timeline: Complete the program in just 18-24 months, accelerating your career advancement.
• Industry partnerships: Benefit from our strong ties with industry leaders in the region, resulting in abundant career opportunities for our graduates.
• Paid assistantships: We offer paid assistantships to qualified students, providing financial support while gaining valuable experience.
• Designed for working professionals: Our program caters to the needs of professionals seeking key roles in industry, government agencies, academia, and other institutions.

High earning potential and broad career prospects: The expertise and knowledge developed in our program prepare graduates for immediate contributions in the South Carolina Lowcountry or for career placements worldwide.

How to Apply

Dates and Deadlines:

• Fall: January 15 (priority); July 1 (final)
• Spring: November 1 (priority); December 1 (final)
• Summer: January 15 (priority); April 1 (final)

Admission Criteria:

• Competency, demonstrated through coursework, approved work experience, or a program-administered competency exam in the areas of object-oriented programming, data structures, discrete mathematics, and basic computer architecture. Students who do not have a background in computer science, need a grade of B or higher in prerequisite courses before being considered for admission.
• All students must satisfy one of the following prerequisite areas options indicated below before enrolling in any graduate CSIS course.
  • Complete a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 3.000 or higher
  • Complete a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 2.500 or higher. Complete six credit hours of graduate CSIS coursework as a non-degree-seeking student with a cumulative GPA of 3.000 or higher.
  • For students in the Accelerated Bachelor’s-to-Master’s program at the College of Charleston, maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.000 or higher for all CSIS courses to continue as a full-time graduate student.
  • Complete a graduate certificate from the joint College of Charleston/Citadel programs in Computer and Information Sciences, with a cumulative GPA of 3.000 or higher.
• A GRE score is optional but recommended for applicants who want to be considered for scholarships or fellowships.

Application Process:

1. Online Application
2. Application Fee: Pay the $50 non-refundable application fee
3. Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions (international transcripts will require credential evaluation)
4. Statement of Purpose: Write a 700-1000 word statement explaining your reasons for pursuing the program and your career goals
5. Optional Test Scores: Submit official GRE scores (optional but recommended)
6. English Language Proficiency: If English is not your native language, provide proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores

Questions? Contact: gradcs@cofc.edu

Tuition and Aid

Tuition and Fees:

For detailed information on tuition and fees, contact the Office of Graduate Studies.

Paid Assistantships:

We offer paid graduate assistantship opportunities to qualified graduate students. These assistantships provide valuable hands-on experience, financial support, and the opportunity to work closely with faculty members on research projects, teaching assignments, or administrative tasks. The application process for assistantships is separate from the program application. For more information, please contact our department.

At the College of Charleston, we strive to make quality education accessible and affordable. We encourage students to explore financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help fund their graduate studies. Our dedicated financial aid office is available to guide you through the process and help you explore the opportunities available to you.

The MS in Computer and Information Sciences is offered jointly with The Citadel Department of Cyber and Computer Sciences