MS Computer Science

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Drexel University

Program Overview

Drexel’s Master of Science in Computer Science gives you breadth in the core topics of computer science, in-depth advanced material and exposure to the research areas of the faculty, with a balance of theory and practice. It suits students who want to become practicing computer scientists or software engineers in industry or government, or to go on to research and doctoral study through the thesis option. You can study full-time or part-time, in Philadelphia or online, and an integrated pathway exists for students without a significant computing background.

Curriculum Structure

The program is 45 quarter credits and takes about two years on average.

Year 1: Building a broad core. You’ll choose one course from each core category: theory, computer systems, intelligent systems, programming systems and applications. For example, you might take CS 521 Data Structures and Algorithms I, CS 543 Operating Systems and CS 613 Machine Learning. Other options include CS 510 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, CS 550 Programming Languages and CS 523 Cryptography. These courses give you a well-rounded foundation across the whole field.

Year 2: Specializing and exploring. You’ll choose 18 credits of advanced CS or software engineering electives, which may include 6 credits of thesis coursework if you want a research path. Then you’ll add four flexible electives from areas such as data science, information science or software engineering, such as CS 583 Introduction to Computer Vision or CS 590 Privacy. Full-time on-campus students can also add a Graduate Co-op in between.

Focus Areas: Applied algorithms and data structures, artificial intelligence and intelligent systems, cognitive modeling, computer graphics, computer vision, distributed systems, high performance computing, human-computer interaction, networking and security, scientific computation, and software engineering.

Learning Outcomes: They do describe the aim of the program: graduates gain an in-depth understanding of core and advanced topics, learn to use the latest tools to model and solve real-world problems, and are prepared for academic and industrial research or for careers as practicing computer scientists and software engineers.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The MS is awarded by Drexel University, which is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The program also builds professional alignment into its structure through the Graduate Co-op, which is open to full-time, on-campus students and places them in hands-on industry experience. The online program page also cites Bureau of Labor Statistics data, with a median wage of $131,450 for software developers and $140,910 for computational scientists.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges ranks Drexel 80th out of 434 universities, 41st among private universities, and No. 2 nationally for Co-ops/Internships. These are university-wide rankings, not rankings of the MS in Computer Science itself, and the co-op ranking is the standout for career outcomes. The co-op option isn’t available for the online program or for spring-term entry, so it’s worth highlighting for applicants planning to study on campus.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Drexel University, the MS in Computer Science program is designed to provide students with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are essential in today’s tech-driven world. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with peers, and utilize state-of-the-art facilities and tools. This approach not only enhances understanding but also prepares students for real-world challenges in the field of computer science.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available to students in the MS Computer Science program at Drexel:

- Co-op Program: Drexel's renowned cooperative education program allows students to gain valuable work experience through internships with leading companies in the tech industry. This unique opportunity helps students build professional networks and apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.

- Research Labs: Students have access to specialized research labs, such as the Cyber-Physical Systems Lab and the Human-Computer Interaction Lab, where they can work on cutting-edge projects and collaborate with faculty on innovative research.

- Group Projects: The curriculum includes collaborative projects that encourage teamwork and problem-solving, simulating the dynamics of a professional tech environment.

- Software and Tools: Students utilize industry-standard software and tools, including Python, Java, C++, and various machine learning frameworks, ensuring they are well-versed in the technologies used in the field.

- Field Trips and Industry Visits: The program often organizes visits to tech companies and startups, providing students with insights into industry practices and trends.

- Drexel Libraries: Students have access to extensive digital resources and databases through Drexel's libraries, supporting their research and learning needs.

- Institute for Biomedical Engineering: For those interested in the intersection of technology and healthcare, this institute offers opportunities for interdisciplinary projects and research.

- Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The Close School of Entrepreneurship provides resources and support for students interested in launching their own tech ventures.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Drexel University's MS in Computer Science program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. Alumni have successfully secured roles such as Software Engineer, Data Scientist, and Cybersecurity Analyst, showcasing the program's strong alignment with industry demands. The comprehensive curriculum and hands-on experience prepare students for a variety of exciting career paths:

- University Services: Drexel offers robust career services, including personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation. The Steinbright Career Development Center connects students with co-op opportunities and internships, allowing them to gain real-world experience while studying.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of Drexel graduates find employment within six months of graduation, with average starting salaries around $85,000, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Drexel has established partnerships with leading tech companies such as Google, Microsoft, and IBM, providing students with networking opportunities, internships, and collaborative projects that enhance their learning experience.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring that the education you receive meets the highest standards of quality and relevance in the field.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the program have gone on to work at top-tier companies and have also pursued entrepreneurial ventures, demonstrating the versatility and value of their degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Computer Science, students have the option to pursue a PhD in Computer Science or related fields, allowing them to delve deeper into research and academia. Additionally, graduates can explore specialized certifications in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data analytics to further enhance their expertise and career prospects. This pathway not only broadens your knowledge but also opens doors to advanced roles in research, teaching, or high-level industry positions.