Master of Science in Computer Science
ON CAMPUS
The Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science program is for computer professionals and people who intend to move into the computer field from other areas of study.
Students who complete the master’s degree in Computer Science will be able to demonstrate:
- Advanced understanding of core computer science foundations, including algorithms, operating systems, computer networks or databases, and programming language theory.
- Core computer science principles and adopt emerging technologies —including AI-driven tools and techniques—to analyze, design, implement, and evaluate solutions across specialized domains such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, computer networks, and software engineering.
- Technical ideas effectively and collaborate professionally, demonstrating leadership and ethical responsibility.
Preparatory Labs
All students are enrolled in the following free, online, non-unit preparatory labs designed to strengthen their academic foundation and serve as a key resource for the degree program. Requirements for completion are assessed during the application process.
- MET LB 100 Programming Fundamentals
- MET LB 101 Discrete Mathematics
Master’s in Computer Science Degree Summary
- A total of ten courses (40 units) is required. Students exempted from the foundation courses will complete a total of eight courses (32 units).
- Students are required to complete the core curriculum courses and have the option to complete one or more concentrations or, no concentration. Students who want to earn one or more concentrations must satisfy the stated requirements of each concentration they wish to pursue.
- Requirements can be completed full time or part time on campus. Some courses may have the option to be taken online or, in the blended format.
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for three start dates a year.
- An average grade of B (3.0) must be maintained to be in good academic standing and satisfy the degree requirements. The minimum passing grade for a course in the graduate program is a C (2.0).
For students who matriculated before Spring 2027, and wish to continue with the previous curriculum, please check the following link for the degree requirements: 2025–2026 MSCS Degree Requirements
MSCS Foundation Courses
(Two courses/8 units)
Upon admission, qualified students may be exempt from one or both foundation course requirements based on previous academic background in information technology, computer science, and mathematics. Admitted students will be notified of their curriculum requirements and whether one or both of the foundational courses will be required based on the review of their application. If foundation courses are assigned they must be completed within the first semester of study.
MSCS Core Courses
(Four required courses/16 units)
Students who have completed courses on core curriculum subjects as part of their undergraduate degree program may request permission from the Department of Computer Science to replace the corresponding core courses with graduate-level computer science electives.
MSCS Concentration Options
(Four courses/16 units)
AI & Machine Learning
The Concentration in AI & Machine Learning provides intensive exploration of the theory and practice of neural nets, generative AI, automated reasoning, AI security, intelligent image processing, and reinforcement learning. AI ethics as well as supervised and unsupervised learning are studied. This concentration enables graduates to design and implement intelligent applications in engineering, business, and industry.
Concentration Requirements
In addition to the MS in Computer Science core curriculum (16 units), students pursuing a Concentration in AI and Machine Learning must also take the following concentration requirements and electives:
(Four courses/16 units)
And one course selected from the following:
Area Coordinator
Computer Networks
The Concentration in Computer Networks offers a broad foundation of information technology, along with an in-depth exploration of computer data communication and modern
networking. The computer networks concentration provides a comprehensive examination of network design and implementation, network performance analysis and management, network security, and the latest networking technology. The program is designed to empower students with extensive hands-on experience in order to analyze, design, procure, manage, and implement cutting-edge computer networking solutions and technologies.
Concentration Requirements
Students choosing this concentration should choose the core course MET CS 535 Computer Networks.
In addition to the MS in Computer Science core curriculum (16 units), students pursuing a Concentration in Computer Networks must also take the following concentration requirements and electives:
(Four courses/16 units)
Plus one course selected from the following:
Area Coordinator
Cybersecurity
The Concentration in Cybersecurity provides in-depth knowledge of security principles, threat models, cryptographic foundations, secure communication protocols, system
vulnerabilities, and emerging security threats and solutions. Students develop the ability to analyze attacks, evaluate security architectures, and design and implement effective defense mechanisms to build highly secure systems and networks that support organizational goals.
Concentration Requirements
In addition to the MS in Computer Science core curriculum (16 units), students pursuing a Concentration in Cybersecurity must also take the following concentration requirements and electives:
(Four courses/16 units)
And one course selected from the following:
Area Coordinator
Data Analytics
The Concentration in Data Analytics will explore the intricacies of data analytics and expose students to various topics and tools related to data processing, analysis, and visualization. Students will learn probability theory, statistical analysis methods and tools, generating relevant visual presentations of data, and concepts and techniques for data mining, text mining, and web mining. Individuals who complete this program will have a solid knowledge of concepts and techniques in data analytics as well as a solid exposure to the methods and tools for data mining and knowledge discovery in addition to the broad background in the theory of practice of computer science from the core courses.
Concentration Requirements
In addition to the MS in Computer Science core curriculum (16 units), students pursuing a Concentration in Data Analytics must also take the following concentration requirements and electives:
(Four courses/16 units)
One of the following:
And:
Plus two courses selected from the following:
Area Coordinator
Software Engineering
The Concentration in Software Engineering prepares students to design, build, and maintain complex, high-quality real-world software systems across web, mobile, and server
environments. The program combines strong computer science foundations with advanced software engineering topics such as system architecture, design patterns, secure-by-design,
and modern development practices including CI/CD and DevSecOps. Students gain hands-on experience working in team-based projects with modern tools and workflows while
evaluating trade-offs among performance, maintainability, usability, and security. Graduates are well equipped to lead software development efforts in industry or pursue
advanced research in software engineering and related areas.
Concentration Requirements
In addition to the MS in Computer Science core curriculum (16 units), students pursuing a Concentration in Software Engineering must also take the following concentration requirements and electives:
(Four courses/16 units)
And two courses selected from the following:
No Concentration (General Electives)
In addition to the MS in Computer Science core curriculum (16 units), students who are not choosing to complete a concentration must select four courses (16 units) from the following list with at least three courses at the 600-level or above. When choosing electives, students should make sure that they have completed all prerequisites required by the selected course. Electives other than those listed must be approved by an advisor.
| 500 Level Courses |
600 Level Courses |
700 Level Courses |
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Master Thesis
(Two courses/8 units)
Students majoring in computer science may elect a thesis option, to be completed within 12 months. This option is available to MS in Computer Science candidates who have completed at least four courses toward their degree and have a grade point average (GPA) of 3.7 or higher. Students are responsible for finding a thesis advisor and a principal reader within the department. The advisor must be a full-time faculty member; the principal reader may be part-time faculty. Department approval is required.
Second Master's Degree Option
Appreciating the converging nature of management skills and technology, the Computer Science Department has a special relationship with Metropolitan College’s Administrative Sciences and Actuarial Science departments. Degree candidates in either program may apply up to 8 units from one degree toward a second degree in one of these disciplines, thereby reducing their work by two courses.
Interested students apply for a second Master’s degree after enrollment at MET. Students who apply for a second master’s degree are eligible for an application fee waiver, and may also request that application materials (including references and transcripts) be forwarded from the first application to the second. Upon acceptance to the second Master’s degree, unit transfer may be applied for up to 8 units.
What degree programs are eligible for the second degree option?
- Actuarial Science: MS in Actuarial Science
- Administrative Studies: MS in Administrative Sciences, MS in Applied Business Analytics, MS in Enterprise Risk Management, MS in Financial Management, MS in Global Marketing Management, MS in Project Management, MS in Supply Chain Management
- Computer Science: MS in Computer Science, MS in Computer Information Systems
What two courses from the first degree can be applied to the second degree?
Contact your designated program administrator to determine how courses will count towards your second degree program as it can vary by degree. You may also email metcs@bu.edu for further details.
Related Graduate Certificates
Students who are currently enrolled in the Master of Science in Computer Science have the option to complete a certificate program without reapplication. Classes may count towards both a certificate and degree program (if requirements indicate the same course). However, please refer to the Academic Policies Manual regarding classes overlapping between two certificate programs. To add a certificate to your academic profile, email your designated program administrator at metcs@bu.edu.
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