MS in Computer and Information Science

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Pennsylvania

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Engineering in Computer and Information Science (MSE in CIS) at the University of Pennsylvania is an advanced graduate program designed to develop expertise in the scientific foundations of computer science. Students can customize their studies across areas such as artificial intelligence, systems, computer vision, software foundations and theoretical computing, preparing for careers in technology, engineering, research and further doctoral studies.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students establish advanced foundations in computer science through core courses covering algorithms, theoretical computing, machine learning and computer systems. Courses such as Analysis of Algorithms (CIS 5020), Theory of Computation (CIS 5110) and Machine Learning (CIS 5200) help students strengthen their computational reasoning, algorithmic knowledge and understanding of intelligent systems. They also select electives based on their preferred specialization.

Year 2: Students deepen their expertise through specialized courses and advanced technical electives. Subjects such as Operating Systems Design and Implementation (CIS 5480), Networked Systems (CIS 5530) and Artificial Intelligence (CIS 5210) allow students to explore software infrastructure, distributed computing and intelligent applications. Students can also undertake independent research and complete an optional master's thesis, which can count for two course units toward the degree.

Focus Areas: Artificial Intelligence, Systems, Computer Vision, Software Foundations, Theoretical Foundations, Machine Learning, Algorithms, Computer Networks, Operating Systems, Database Systems, Cybersecurity, Programming Languages, Distributed Computing and Computer Architecture.

Learning Outcomes: Develop advanced knowledge of computer science foundations, analyze complex algorithms, design and implement efficient software systems, apply artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques, understand computer architecture and networked systems, solve theoretical computing problems, conduct independent research, and develop innovative solutions to advanced technological challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program combines advanced technical coursework with opportunities for independent study and research. Students can complete an optional master's thesis under the supervision of a faculty adviser and present their findings through a public presentation or conference/poster presentation. Penn Engineering also provides career development support to help students prepare for professional opportunities.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Pennsylvania is an internationally recognized Ivy League research institution with a distinguished Computer and Information Science department. According to the university's official program information, graduates have secured positions such as Software Development Engineer at Microsoft, Systems Engineer at Lockheed Martin, Senior Programmer/Analyst at the University of Pennsylvania and Researcher at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. Graduates have also continued their academic careers through doctoral studies at institutions including Brown University and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSE in Computer and Information Science at the University of Pennsylvania gives students the opportunity to deepen their technical expertise through advanced coursework and research-oriented study. Students can explore specialised areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Computer Vision, Systems, and Theoretical Foundations, supported by Penn Engineering's research environment and faculty expertise. The program encourages students to develop strong analytical and technical capabilities through advanced computer science study.

Program-specific learning and research opportunities include:

Amy Gutmann Hall: A dedicated Penn Engineering building featuring research spaces, teaching laboratories, a Data Science Hub and collaborative learning areas supporting AI and data science.
AI and Machine Learning Research: Students can explore research opportunities connected to Penn's interdisciplinary AI and data science initiatives.
Computer Science Research Groups: The Penn Database Group works on scientific data management, distributed systems, machine learning systems, cloud infrastructure and data integration.
Research Collaborations: The Database Group collaborates with the Institute for Biomedical Informatics, AIRFoundry, the ASSET Center and the Warren Center for Network and Data Science.
Specialised Research Areas: Students can explore research in artificial intelligence, computer vision, cybersecurity, programming languages, systems and theoretical computer science.
Research Environment: Penn CIS provides access to research laboratories, faculty expertise and departmental research activities.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSE in Computer and Information Science are prepared for advanced technical and research-oriented careers across the technology industry, research organisations and interdisciplinary sectors. Depending on their concentration and expertise, they can pursue roles such as Software Development Engineer, Systems Engineer, AI Engineer and Computer Science Researcher. Penn also reports graduates progressing into research positions at organisations such as Microsoft, MIT Lincoln Laboratory and Lockheed Martin, as well as doctoral studies at leading universities.

Career development and professional opportunities include:

Penn Engineering Career Development: Master's students have access to specialised career development support, including career guidance and professional preparation.
Employer Networking: Penn provides employer information sessions, networking opportunities, coffee chats and recruitment events through its career development services.
Engineering & Technology Career Days: Students can connect with technology and engineering employers recruiting for internships and full-time positions.
Handshake Platform: Students can explore job and internship opportunities, employer events and recruitment activities through Penn's career platform.
Industry Exposure: Penn's employer engagement initiatives include technical talks, industry-focused events and opportunities to interact with recruiters and professionals.
Graduate Employment Examples: The university identifies previous MSE graduates working as Software Development Engineers at Microsoft, Systems Engineers at Lockheed Martin and Researchers at MIT Lincoln Laboratory.
Employment Statistics and Salaries: The program page does not publish specific employment rates, average salaries or salary ranges for MSE CIS graduates. These figures should not be assumed.
Industry Connections: Penn Engineering facilitates engagement with technology employers and industry professionals through its recruitment events and employer partnerships.

Further Academic Progression:

Graduates interested in advanced research or academic careers can pursue a PhD in Computer and Information Science or a related discipline. Penn's own CIS doctoral program offers research opportunities in artificial intelligence, robotics, computer vision, machine learning, databases, cybersecurity, programming languages and theoretical computer science. Graduates may also explore doctoral opportunities at other leading institutions, with previous MSE graduates progressing to PhD studies at the University of Pennsylvania, Brown University and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.