MS Computer Science

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Nebraska Lincoln

Program Overview

UNL’s Master of Science in Computer Science is a 30-credit, on-campus program from the School of Computing that builds breadth across theory, systems and applications, then lets you go deep in the subfield you care about. It suits students with a strong CS background who want either a research path (thesis, Option A) or a coursework-based degree (Option B), with specializations in Bioinformatics and Computer Engineering.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Building breadth across the field. You’ll take at least two courses in each of three tracks (theory, systems and applications), so you leave with real range. In applications you might choose CSCE 878 Machine Learning or CSCE 879 Introduction to Deep Learning. In systems, options include CSCE 838 Internet of Things or CSCE 862 Communication Networks, and in theory, CSCE 823 Design and Analysis of Algorithms. The typical plan is 9 credit hours in each of your first two semesters, and you also attend colloquia and thesis defenses to see the research in action.

Year 2: Going deep and finishing your degree. Now you focus on graduate-only courses, such as CSCE 976 Advanced Artificial Intelligence, CSCE 936 Cyber-Physical Systems or CSCE 924 Graph Algorithms. In Option A you complete a thesis (CSCE 899, 6 to 9 credits) under a faculty advisor and defend it in an oral exam, while in Option B you complete a final written examination, with no thesis required. The typical Option B plan runs three semesters at 9 credits plus 3 credits in the last, and a summer course can shorten it to about one and a half years.

Focus Areas: Algorithms, artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, data mining and databases, software engineering, computer networks and wireless systems, cybersecurity and privacy, Internet of Things, robotics and embedded systems, and bioinformatics.

Learning Outcomes: The program aims to increase your breadth of knowledge and develop depth of expertise in a subfield of computer science and engineering. It builds a foundation for future scientific discovery, engineering innovation, and scholarly and professional achievement, and it develops your teaching and research skills along the way.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The MS in Computer Science is awarded by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), one of six regional accrediting agencies, and has been continuously accredited since 1913. The School of Computing backs that credential with serious professional infrastructure: the Holland Computing Center (over 121 teraflops of computing power and 7 petabytes of storage), UAV testbeds, a city-wide gigabit wireless testbed and dedicated research labs. The program also doesn’t require a GRE score.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): U.S. News & World Report placed UNL’s computer science graduate program at No. 80 in its 2025 Best Graduate Schools rankings, a climb of six spots since 2024. The School of Computing’s computer engineering graduate program also ranked No. 71 on the same list. That recognition reflects a faculty with deep strength in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, networks, software engineering, robotics and bioinformatics, and it gives you a ranked graduate program with a strong research environment.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the MS in Computer Science program emphasizes experiential learning, ensuring that students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also gain practical skills that are essential in today’s tech-driven world. The program is designed to provide hands-on experiences through various facilities, tools, and opportunities that prepare students for real-world challenges.

Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, collaborative spaces, and cutting-edge software that enhance their learning experience. Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the MS Computer Science program:

- Research Laboratories: Engage in innovative research at facilities like the Nebraska Intelligent Mobile Unmanned Aircraft Systems (NIMUAS) Lab and the Cyber-Physical Systems Lab, where you can work on projects that push the boundaries of technology.

- Collaborative Projects: Participate in group projects that simulate real-world scenarios, allowing you to work alongside peers and faculty on complex problems, fostering teamwork and communication skills.

- Internship Opportunities: Take advantage of partnerships with local and national tech companies for internships that provide invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities.

- Software and Tools: Gain proficiency in industry-standard software and tools, including MATLAB, Python, and various machine learning frameworks, which are integral to your coursework and projects.

- Field Trips and Workshops: Attend field trips to tech companies and workshops led by industry professionals, giving you insights into current trends and practices in the field of computer science.

- Libraries and Resources: Utilize the extensive resources available at the Love Library and the Engineering Library, which offer access to a wealth of academic journals, databases, and study spaces tailored for computer science students.

- Institute for Computational Research: Collaborate with faculty and peers at the Institute for Computational Research, where you can engage in interdisciplinary projects that apply computational techniques to solve real-world problems.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Science in Computer Science at the University of Nebraska Lincoln prepares graduates for a dynamic and rewarding career in technology. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, students can expect to pursue roles such as Software Engineer, Data Scientist, and Systems Analyst. The program equips you with the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs that connect students with top employers in the tech industry.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates of the program have an impressive employment rate, with over 90% securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates is around $85,000, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals in this field.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Nebraska Lincoln has established partnerships with leading tech companies such as Google and Microsoft, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.
- Accreditation: 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 industry.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work at prestigious organizations and have reported high levels of job satisfaction, often advancing to leadership positions within a few years of graduation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Computer Science, students have the option to pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science or related fields, allowing for deeper specialization and research opportunities. This path can lead to careers in academia, advanced research positions, or high-level roles in industry. Additionally, graduates may choose to obtain certifications in emerging technologies, further enhancing their expertise and marketability in the tech landscape.