Admissions
University of Illinois
Who is this degree for?
Master of Computer Science
This degree is for computing professionals who want to build skills in advanced topics in computer science, such as artificial intelligence, database & information systems, parallel computing, graphics, systems & networking, scientific computing, and more. This degree will accelerate your career and help you move into leading a team of engineers.
Masters of Computer Science in Data Science
The MCS-DS is a data science program grounded in a computer science masters degree that gives its graduates full programmable control of the instrumentation of big data as well as the full-stack understanding of how to process the data to discover new insights and optimize organizational decision-making. Students in this track earn the same MCS degree, but their curriculum concentrates on data science courses.
Deadlines
The next cohort starts Fall 2021
Application Deadline: May 30th, 2021 | Apply now
Applications are open three times per year, for cohorts starting in the fall, spring, and summer.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants for the degree program must have:
- An eligible bachelor's degree (check to see if your degree is eligible)
- 3.2 / 4.0 or higher undergraduate GPA (from the last two years of bachelor's degree coursework)
- A strong background in object-oriented computer programming, data structures, and algorithms (this should include a "data structures" course or comparable experience). If you do not have graded and transcripted prerequisite CS coursework in these areas, but have at least a 3.2 GPA and 4-5 years of relevant CS experience, consider enrolling in our Accelerated Computer Science Fundamentals Specialization. This series of courses is designed to help you prepare for the Data Structures Proficiency Exam, which can strengthen your application for admission. Admission preference is still given to those who have prerequisite coursework on their transcript.
- Not already completed a graduate degree in computer science, computer engineering or a closely related field
Additional Admissions Recommendations
Applicants for the degree program are recommended to have:
- A bachelor's degree in a computing field (or transcripted coursework in fundamental CS coursework, e.g. data structures)
- Programming experience with C++ or Java
Watch the admissions video and latest admissions webinar recording to learn more about the process and requirements.
Application Process
All applicants must submit an application form, the supplemental form, three letters of reference (not required, but highly recommended), a statement of purpose, resume, and official transcripts from all completed university coursework. TOEFL/IELTS scores may be required for international applicants. Additional details about applying to the Master of Computer Science can be found here. All applicants must pay the application fee before their application can be reviewed. There are no exceptions.
In response to the temporary closings of testing centers in countries impacted by COVID-19, the Graduate College will temporarily accept Duolingo English Test examination results for tests taken between February 1, 2020 and August 1, 2021. Please refer to the Graduate College COVID-19 page for further details.
Admitted and enrolled students may transfer up to 12 credit hour of previous CS graduate coursework approved by the department. Credits must be no more than 5 years old at the time of the transfer request. Credits used to confer a previous degree are not transferrable.
How to Select the Data Science Track
In your application, under the “Program Section,” you will be asked if you are interested in enrolling in the Data Science track. Select “Yes” if you would like to enroll in the data science track. Admitted students can decide later whether or not they will utilize the data science track as they work with program advisors on course selection.
Start your application now!
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