Top Universities For Masters In Computer Science

When it comes to the subjects or majors, the STEM fields are always the preferred ones. However, business & management studies and liberal arts are also not too far behind. One field that clearly stands out in terms of popularity among Indian students is MS in Computer Science in USA. In this post, we will look into the top universities for MS in Computer Science, hottest computer science specializations to study in USA, choosing between 1-Year MS & 2-Year MS, and MS application tips.

The USA has been the evergreen and most popular study abroad destination for Indian and international students. According to the data from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, 64% of Indian students (who go abroad for higher studies) go to the US for graduate studies (MS and Ph.D.); whereas, only 12% go to the US for undergraduate studies. The reasons are very straightforward – the presence of world-class and top-ranked universities, flexible study system, exciting specializations, research, and innovation-oriented curriculum, and funding options.

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While applying for MS in Computer Science in USA, you need to consider a variety of factors for making a well-informed decision. There are more than 4, 000 colleges and universities in the US. 30 to 40 US universities feature among the top 100 world universities (QS, Times Higher Education, and ARWU rankings).

So, how would you select the universities where you can have a solid education, and also manage to get admission? Well, you can obviously apply to 20 or 40 universities. But, that’s not wise at all. It would be a waste of your time, and money as well (each application will cost you USD $80 – $125). Besides, applying to too many universities will also piss off your referees – and hence, not a great idea at all.

Secondly, which computer science specialization to go for? Computer science is a very broad field, and ever-evolving. Selecting and getting admitted, in the right university and specialization, will determine your success in the future. There is no room for impulsive decisions or applying to universities merely on the basis of rankings. The first step would be to in-depth research for your field of interest. You need to look at the job trends. What are the companies looking for in graduates? Which are the “hottest” fields that companies are recruiting for more than the other fields? Let’s start with the hottest specializations.

MS Computer Science in USA: Top Specializations

1. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a complex and interdisciplinary field of computer science that incorporates the principles of human intelligence and reasoning into computing systems. You will be dealing with logic, probability, and programming language(s). AI makes rational decisions based on input from external sources. The objective of AI is to create computer systems (and software) with the ability of planning, automated reasoning & deduction. The systems should also adapt to different situations, acquire human-like senses, and respond to the environment.

While specializing in AI, you will cover knowledge representation, logical reasoning, machine learning, robotics, natural language processing (NLP), probabilistic modeling & inference, and cognition science. AI has got various applications across different industries and domains ranging from insurance, banking and the stock exchange to IT, e-commerce and healthcare.

2. Machine Learning

Machine Learning (ML) is another hot field that applies the principles of computer science and statistics to create statistical models. These models are then used for future predictions and identifying & discovering patterns in the data. Machine learning is itself a type of artificial intelligence that allows software applications to become more accurate in predicting outcomes without being explicitly programmed.

3. Data Science & Analytics

Data Science is another interdisciplinary field about scientific methods, processes, and systems to extract knowledge or insights from data in various forms, structured or unstructured, similar to data mining. Data analytics is the process of analyzing those data. Big data coupled with data analytics can help businesses to optimize operational efficiency, calculate entire risk portfolios, investigate the underlying causes of failures, and understanding consumer behavior in minutes. Know more about MS Data Science and MS Analytics in USA.

MS in Computer Science in USA: Hot Specializations

4. Robotics

Robotics is another interdisciplinary and exciting branch of computer science that applies artificial intelligence and engineering concepts to create and program mechanical devices (robots), which can perform a variety of tedious and hazardous tasks by replacing humans. The field of robotics deals with the research, design, manufacturing, operations, software development, information processing and application of robots in various industrial and commercial processes. The ultimate objective of robotics is to build machines that can substitute humans.

Top MS Computer Science Specializations in USA

5. Software Engineering

Software engineering involves the study of the design and assembly of software systems. The field applies the basics of computer science, computer technology, management, and engineering economics. Software engineering is one of the most traditional and yet ever-evolving fields of computer science that revolves around writing codes and programming.

6. Human-Computer Interaction

Human-computer interaction (HCI) is a highly specialized domain of computer science and user interface design (UI) and experience (UX). The field involves advanced computing, information visualizing and user-centric & device-compatible design thinking and methods. The objective of HCI is to understand consumer (user) needs, rendering and visualizing information, and optimizing interface design and user interaction.

7. Information Science & Management Information Systems (MIS)

This interdisciplinary field integrates the computer applications of data processing and problem-solving, with the aim of improving organizational efficiency through the development of systems for data storage, data retrieval, data processing, and analysis for the design of decision-support systems. This field spans across telecommunications, computer science, linguistics, philosophy, mathematics, psychology, and sociology. The specialization covers developing applications for database & information systems, system design, architecture, and database management by applying algorithms and advanced techniques like data mining and machine learning to perform analytics over huge data sets.

8. Cyber Security

Cyber-security is simply the technique of protecting the computer, networks programs and data from damage and unauthorized access. It’s a great field for the folks who want to get into ethical hacking and/or networking systems.

9. Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is the practice of delivering computing services such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and other services over the internet (through remote servers – cloud). Cloud computing makes it possible to use online services like sending emails, edit documents, watching videos, sharing files, hosting websites and blogs, delivering software, analyzing data etc.

Cloud computing has become a multi-billion dollar industry and covers both infrastructure (IaaS – Infrastructure as a Service) and development (SaaS – Software as a Service). Cloud computing specializations typically include cloud architecture, cloud security, cloud infrastructure management, cloud application development & services, data storage & management, data visualization, programming for data analytics, and research & business strategies in computing.

10. Theoretical Computer Science

Theoretical computer science deals with reactive systems, programming language theory, and algorithms. This field is somewhat similar to software engineering but slightly more abstract. It’s a great specialization for the students who are interested in the mathematical aspects of computer science and the computational aspects of mathematics. The field informs about the limits of computing, the practicality of algorithms and other areas.

Caution for Choosing Computer Science Specializations

Although I have listed the most trending and hottest computer science specializations, it would be silly to go blindly after them just because of their hotness. Your career will span about 40 years or so. Technology changes rapidly; the hot trends might not remain hot after 5 years from now. Hence, it is only wise to pick up a specialization that interests you genuinely and try to excel in it. Not only it will help you to secure admission at the right university, but it will also ensure that you end up in a field that you are really good at, and this will help you in the long-term career.

Top Universities for MS Computer Science USA — *Image Credit: Careers360*

Top Universities for MS in Computer Science in USA

Stanford
MIT
UC Berkeley
Princeton
Carnegie Mellon
Cornell
University of Southern California (USC)
UT Austin
Harvard
Caltech
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
University of Maryland College Park
UC San Diego
University of Michigan Ann Arbor
Purdue
Columbia
University of Washington
Georgia Tech
UC Los Angeles
Yale
University Pennsylvania
New York University
University of Chicago
Duke University
Johns Hopkins University
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Ohio State University
UMass Amherst
Boston University
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

All the above universities feature within the top 100 universities in the world for computer science as per US News, QS, Times and ARWU rankings.

How to Choose the Right US Univesity for the Right Computer Science Specialization

Okay, now we know the hottest computer science specializations and top universities for MS in computer science in the US. So, how should we go ahead with applying to the right universities for your profile and the right computer science specialization? Below are some of the top-ranking universities for specific specializations.

General: MIT, CMU, UT Austin, Minnesota
Software: MIT, UC Berkeley, CMU, UT Austin
AI: CMU, Stanford. MIT, UC Berkeley, Yale, Harvard
Theoretical Computer Science: MIT & Cornell are better than Caltech or Yale
MIS: MIT, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, University of Arizona
HCI: CMU & Georgia Tech
Cloud Computing: Harvard, UC Berkeley, Stanford, Princeton, Columbia, NYU, University of Chicago
Robotics: Top Universities for Robotics
Data Science & Machine Learning: Top US Universities for MS in Data Science & Machine Learning

Application Strategy while applying for MS in Computer Science in USA

Creating a Balanced & Strategic College List

There is no point in applying to MIT and other top 5 universities with 3.0 GPA and 310 – 320 in GRE. The following college list could be a reasonable one for you.

One University among Stanford, UC Berkeley, CMU, and MIT (these are for the top-performing applicants)
One University between UCLA and UT Austin (competitive ones)
Two reputed universities where you can have solid chances: Georgia Tech and Ohio State or Wisconsin.
Two safe universities, say Boston and UMass Amherst

Book a Session (Skype/Phone) with Tanmoy Ray

Leveraging Average GPA and/or Average GRE score (less than 320) through the following:

Work experience (say two years)
Solid and well-crafted SoP
Strong recommendations
Online courses (from Coursera, Skillwise or Udemy) for including on your CV and SoP
Professional services for MS admission consulting

Finding the right-fit college is a critical part of the admission process. The application (and admission) process could be complex and overwhelming at times; hence, don’t be shy about reaching out to the experts and seeking professional services for admission consulting. Sometimes, it’s a bit of luck as well. Different schools are looking for students with different profiles and interests. There are instances where a student got accepted by Carnegie Mellon but was rejected by (comparatively) lower-ranked schools like UC San Diego and Pennsylvania. The college admission process is similar to marriage – you don’t need everyone to accept you, you need the right one. Need assistance with MS Applications & Admission in USA? Contact us!

Choosing between 2-year and 1-year MS in Computer Science

The 2-year MS in CS from the US is a research-oriented degree. This is recommended for the students who want to do a Ph.D. after MS. It is a highly specialized degree with academic goals.

If you are applying for MS in your final year of Bachelor or with limited work experience, then also, I would recommend going for a 2-year MS. The main reason is that you will get more time to look for internships.

The 1-year MS in Computer Science, on the other hand, is a terminal degree, opted by those who want to enter the professional sector and are not looking forward to research studies in the future. So, under this, the student is required to do a project instead of on the thesis. It is recommended for the applicants who have got at least a couple of years of work experience and/or for the folks who don’t want to go for thesis-based MS.

A few top universities that offer 1-year MS in Computer Science include:

Harvard University
Carnegie Mellon University
Stanford University
Cornell University
Rice University
University of George Washington
University of Texas at Austin

Top 5 MS in Computer Science Programs in the USA

USA is a great destination for pursuing MS in CS. There are also several scholarship aids available to the students studying abroad there. Read here about the scholarship programs in the USA. These are the best 5 programs for MS in computer science in the USA:

1. Master of Computer Science

Source: http://www.umassonline.net

Master in Computer Science program will help you get a rock-solid technical education. You will get an opportunity to develop innovative solutions for business clients. The main topic covered in this master’s program are Machine Learning, Data Science, Computer Security & Privacy, Computer Vision, HCI, Systems (Computer) etc. It is a course that will enable a student to achieve and take up good posts and designations in a company. In this increasingly competitive world, students get the apt knowledge and skills to be at the top.

2. Masters in Applied Computer Science

Applied computer science is a course that will provide you with a solid base for becoming special application developer. This course will help you master all technologies that are used in the development of website mobile applications, computer games etc. It helps you to keep pace with the rapid t development in the field of technology. Student and will learn skills required s scientific and analytical and analytical skills for being a professional in this field. As the requirements for professionals who are aware of technologies for digital photo and video mobile applications and computer games is increasing this course will open many doors of opportunity for a student.

3. Masters in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Source: https://whizstorm.com

Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering is another Masters program when many students opt for technically demanding careers in industries as well as other areas. This Masters program is designed for a student who has completed bachelor’s degree program in a related field. Students with a bachelor’s degree or a background in Electrical Engineering or other related areas can opt for this course. This is a specialized course that enables a student to enhance their knowledge and learn and advanced phase of electrical engineering.

4. Master of Software Engineering

The Master of Software Engineering is a systematic application of Engineering techniques for the development of a software. This course equips a student with the essential practical knowledge of the systematic application scientific and technological knowledge. It also includes implementation, testing, and documentation of software. For becoming a software engineer knowledge of computer program is a must. A number of universities in the USA have software engineering programs. There is a huge requirement for software engineers as of today. Students pursuing this course will have a career boost as it will increase their chances of employment.

5. MEng in Computer Science

Source: https://www.stoodnt.com

A lot of students take up engineering in today’s time. Engineering is a field that attracts many students. MEng in Computer Science is a course that is specially designed for students from an engineering background who wish to have a deeper understanding of Computer Science.This course will help you take up good posts in companies. This course can widen up career and cause a rapid growth in the filed. This course will give a detailed information and equip you with necessary skills.

Top Universities in the USA for MS in Computer Science

GRE score is the main criteria required for admission to most of the top colleges. Read here about how to score well in the GRE. These are the best universities in the USA for MS in computer science:

Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University was founded by Andrew Carnegie in the year 1900. As The Carnegie Institute of Technology merged with the Mellon Institute of Industrial Research in the year 1967 it became Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon has known for being warm and friendly towards international students. The university has about 13,650 students from over 114 countries. The university has over 5,000 trained and highly qualified faculty and staff.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) was founded in 1861. It is a popular private research university that is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. The university has a legacy of providing education in various fields such as architecture, linguistics, computer science and information systems, engineering and technology, chemistry, mathematics, economics etc. It is regarded as one of the best universities in the USA.

Stanford University

Stanford University is the most famous university not only in the USA but also in the whole world. This university which was founded in 1885 has maintained its reputation as one of the best universities in the world. Every year many international students apply here for masters in computer science. It is one of the leading universities that provide best courses and even offers the best professors who guide and assist students to succeed.

Discover more universities in the USA

Today we live in a world which has numerous technology-driven start-ups. The role of technology is to meet human needs and solve human problems and hence the need for engineers and computer scientists who understand it better is increasing. Pursuing a Masters program in Computer Science is a great option worth considering for those who are aspiring to be in great positions. What are the best colleges in your opinion for MS in CS? Do share in the comments below. Also, do not forget to give your suggestions and feedback.

Best universities for computer science degrees 2020

Find the best universities for computer science using Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings dataOctober 16 2019

Studying computer science is a smart bet in today’s world, as the career opportunities for tech-savvy graduates are expanding every year.

There’s also an extensive choice of universities when it comes to deciding where to study computer science.

Some 749 schools feature in the ranking for computer science by Times Higher Education this year.

Top 5 universities for computer science

1. University of Oxford

Although computer science is a relatively modern discipline, the University of Oxford has one of the oldest departments in the country, formerly known as the Oxford University Computing Laboratory.

Since its beginnings, the department has provided lectures for undergraduates and trained research students at postgraduate level.

In addition to core computer science topics, students can take courses in computational biology, quantum computing, information systems, software verification, software engineering and computational linguistics.

The department offers three undergraduate degrees: single honours computer science, maths and computer science, and computer science and philosophy.

Like students of other subjects, computer science students – whether undergraduate or postgraduate – belong to one of Oxford’s colleges, where they have the option to eat, socialise, study and live.

2. Stanford University

The Stanford University computer science department was established in 1965. The department offers bachelor’s of science, master’s of science and a doctor of philosophy.

The department undertakes research in many areas, including artificial intelligence, robotics, foundations of computer science, scientific computing and programming systems. There is also a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research across chemistry, genetics, linguistics, construction and medicine, among others.

The home of the computer science department is the Gates Computer Science Building, named after Bill Gates, who donated $6 million to the project.

3. ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich has a history of developing software and designing computer systems. Eventually, these projects called for a dedicated computer science department, which was created in 1981.

The department covers many areas of computer science, including computational intelligence, networks and distributed systems, algorithms and theory, and information security. Different programming languages are also taught on software engineering courses.

There are close relationships with other departments within the university and with partners in business and industry, such as IBM, Microsoft, Google, SAP and Disney, with which the university collaborates on research projects.

ETH Zurich dates back to 1855, just a few years after the formation of the federal state of Switzerland. Created as a centre for scientific knowledge and innovation, it remains a top institution for a range of subjects.

4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The department of electrical engineering and computer science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology confidently declares: “Our students change the world.”

Many of its alumni feature on lists of influential entrepreneurs who are making changes at home and abroad.

Students are encouraged to develop start-ups, and research projects have explored problems such as calculating the financial risks of renewable energy and developing faster parallel computing.

Undergraduates are enrolled on a flexible curriculum that allows them to focus on both abstract theory and practical problems in computer science. Students can major in computer science or in both computer science and molecular biology.

Graduates go on to design video games, work on supercomputers, research robotics and often join big companies such as Google and Microsoft.

5. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge computer science department offers undergraduate students the Computer Science Tripos course, a three- or four-year computer science course.

The university also offers an MPhil in computer science as a general master’s degree, which helps to prepare students for a PhD in computer science.

There are many research groups based in the computer science department, exploring topics such as artificial intelligence, security, graphics and interaction, and computer architecture.