MS in Computer Science in the USA

MS in Computer Science in the USA is usually a one or two-year course in US universities. More than 400 universities in the USA offer this popular course. The minimum qualification required for this program would be the completion of a 4-year bachelor's from a recognized university. Some of these courses are offered part-time, online, or through distance learning. 

Computers and technology have become an essential part of our everyday life. It is used in various public areas such as the economy, healthcare, transportation, and entertainment. This opens up a wide range of career prospects in the computer science field.

The US has been a leading choice among International students for decades. Its modern technologies, flexible study system, and great specializations make it an ideal haven for students who wish to make a career in technology.

Top Universities in the USA to Study MS in Computer Science

Most of the universities are highly rated in terms of higher studies across the whole world. But the top 10 recommended universities to study courses in computer science are:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
2. Stanford University
3. Harvard University
4. Carnegie Mellon University
5. The University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
6. Princeton University
7. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
8. Georgia Institute of Technology
9. Cornell University
10. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

MS in Computer Science in the USA: Curriculum

Computer Science is an area of study dealing with computer frameworks using specialized and appropriate methodologies. A Master of Computer Science degree from the USA offers students a wide array of specializations. 

There are a number of areas within the software market that are in high demand, such as AI, IT, programming, ethical hacking, virtual and augmented reality.

In today's world, computers are being used in every field, from software to engineering to financial markets to biological research to designing. They are the ultimate solution to today's problems.

Admission Requirements to Apply for an MS in Computer Science in the USA

A 16-year education is a mandatory requirement for all US universities for an MS in computer science. Apart from this, there are some other eligibility criteria and documents required for postgraduate courses in computer science in the USA.

Eligibility Criteria and Documents Required

The eligibility criteria for applying to an MS program differ for each university. However, the general requirements remain the same across US universities and have been discussed as follows:

• GRE/ TOEFL/ IELTS/ GMAT score proofs.
• Recommendation letters
• Work Experience certificate, if applicable.
• Photocopies of Passport
• Certificates of extracurricular activities mentioned in the application form.

Here is a table showing the university-specific cutoff scores for the GRE and English language proficiency:

University	IELTS Cut-off	TOEFL Cut-off	GRE Cut-off
Massachusetts Institute of Technology	Accepted	90	Accepted
Stanford University	Accepted	89	328
Carnegie Mellon University	7.5	102	316
University of California, Berkeley	7	90	324
Harvard University	7	90	292
Princeton University	7	100	Accepted
University of California, Los Angeles	7	87	Accepted
University of Washington	7	92	300
University of Columbia	7	100	Accepted
New York University	7	90	310
University of Texas, Austin	7	90	300
University of Illinois	7	102	316
University of Pennsylvania	7	100	Accepted
University of Southern California	6.5	90	Accepted
Yale University	7	100	322

Cost for Studying MS in Computer Science in the USA

The two main expenses that the students have to bear while studying are Tuition fees and living costs.

1. Tuition Fees - This cost varies as per the university or the course. On average, the Indian students have to spend $40,000 or INR 29,60,000 for a two-year MS program. The scholarships and financial aids provided can help reduce these costs. The students can also opt for an education loan. 
2. Living Expenses: The living expenses depend on factors such as location, apartment size, number of roommates, and proximity to the university. Generally, MS students spend between $500 to $1100 per month. So for a 2 year MS course, the students will be spending $15,000 (INR 11,10,000) on an average.

Scholarships for MS in Computer Science in USA

While studying in the USA is expensive, many scholarships are available to assist and support international students' education financially. These scholarships can either be fully-funded or partially funded. 

Your scholarship amount is directly influenced by your entrance exam scores. Scholarships are also offered based on co-curricular activities, achievements, and recommendation letters. The following scholarships are among the more popular options for masters students in the United States:

Scholarship	Eligibility	Amount
Civil Society Leadership Award	Exceptional academic record	Tuition fees, living expenses, and monthly stipend are covered
PEO International Peace Scholarship for Women	Only for International Women candidates	12,500 USD
Rotary Foundation Graduate Scholarship Program	Applicants from lower-income countries	30,000 USD
National Overseas Scholarship	Admission to graduate or doctoral programs requires a minimum of 55% in UG	Tuition fees, travel expenses, medical insurance, etc., are covered
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program	Applicants from certain countries, including Indian citizens. An experience of at least five years in a relevant professional field.	Benefits include tuition fees, health insurance, computer subsidy, monthly stipend coverage

What are the Career Options after an MS in Computer Science?

There is a great scope in the field of technology for students who complete an MS in computer science from a recognized US university. The average salary increment for MS in computer science graduates is around 9% every 15 months.

An analysis by the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be a 16% rise in demand for professionals in this field between 2018 and 2028. Here are some of the most popular jobs available for international students after studying MS in computer science from the USA, along with their average salary:

Job Profile	Average Annual Salary (in USD)
Android Developer	75,200
Artificial Intelligence Specialist	91,000
Blockchain Developer	75,000
C++ Developer	88,200
Computer Network Architect	90,000
ERP Project Manager	117,000
Ethical Hacker	75,000
Information Security Manager	111,000
Lead Developer	91,500
Network Engineer	85,000