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Computer science master's programs online are for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in the field while balancing work and personal commitments. These master's degrees focus on cutting-edge subjects such as algorithms, machine learning, and software engineering, preparing graduates for advancement in the tech industry.

An online master's degree in computer science may help you specialize in a particular area of the discipline, such as network architecture, software design, or cybersecurity. These programs may be beneficial if you want to deepen your understanding of computer science theories and take on management or administrative positions in the field.

As an advanced degree in a technical field, a master's in computer science requires that students have some previous experience in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) areas, whether through education or work experience. While applicants will ideally have a bachelor's in computer science, this isn't always necessary for admission.

However, prospective students must have a four-year degree from an accredited institution and possess strong quantitative and analytical skills. These competencies can be gained through undergraduate coursework in math, engineering, or a related field. In some cases, applicants may also be able to gain these skills through work experience. Moreover, individuals who don't have a background in computer science may be able to take introductory classes that don't count toward their degree but do help to familiarize them with foundational material.

Aside from previous experience in a STEM field, students will need to meet minimum GPA requirements for their chosen program and may also need to submit GRE test scores for verbal, quantitative, and analytical reasoning. Their application will need to include up to three letters of recommendation from mentors or previous employers.

Master's programs in computer science are designed to help students foster skills in areas such as network design, programming, software development, and machine learning. A bachelor's degree may cover some of these areas as well, but a graduate program includes advanced coursework.

In general, students will spend the first half of their program completing core coursework requirements for their degree. In the second half, they take elective classes that allow them to explore a particular concentration at a deeper level.

Though it's a technical discipline, computer science can be a dynamic and creative field that requires professionals to innovate, think critically, and keep track of rapid technological changes. Students typically learn skills that are not strictly related to computing. Master's students, in particular, can gain significant experience with critical thinking, complex problem solving, and entrepreneurial leadership.

Computer science can be a dynamic and creative field that requires professionals to innovate, think critically, and keep track of rapid technological changes.

Courses in an online computer science master's program cover a mix of core subject areas while also including topics that are based on cutting-edge developments in the field. As a result, course offerings may be quite varied and may change regularly to reflect advances in computer science. Graduate programs also tend to represent departmental strengths, which means course selections — particularly when it comes to electives — may be based on faculty's interests and research areas.

With this in mind, we've listed a few classes commonly found in computer science master's programs.

• Cybersecurity: Security is woven into every job in technology, so all computer science programs require at least this introductory class. Professors might cover online risk management, ethical hacking, security authentication, and multilayered security architecture for software and web application design.
• Data Structures and Algorithms: Faculty for this course emphasize the uses of algorithms for solving complex computing problems. They might lecture on elementary data structures and hashing, asymptotic notation, and minimum spanning trees.
• Networking and Telecommunications: This course focuses on the design, application, and management of telecommunication systems linking networks, computers, and associated software. It usually includes lessons on the principles of network architecture, including data communications, advanced routing, and local area network switching. 
• Software Design and Development: Students learn about the principles of software and app creation in this class. They typically practice skills related to testing software reliability, verification, and security, which can prove useful in a range of technology jobs.

Interested in learning about similar degrees to computer science? Explore online master's degrees in cybersecurity, and a master's in information technology.

A bachelor's degree in computer science may qualify graduates for a variety of entry-level positions, but a master's degree might be better suited to those who want to land advanced roles. The truth is that there are very few jobs that require applicants to have a master's degree in computer science at the entry level — according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is the only computing profession that requires a master's degree.

However,  a computer science master's may open up career advancement opportunities that a bachelor's alone cannot. Foremost of these is the chance to apply to mid-level positions immediately or soon after graduating. With their higher level of knowledge, master's degree holders may be able to substitute their graduate education for work experience in order to qualify for managerial roles in computer science and information technology. Possible occupations may include computer and information systems manager, computer systems analyst, database administrator and architect, and network administrator.

Most master's programs in computer science average between 30 and 40 credit hours, which can take two years of full-time coursework to complete. Part-time learners can take longer, depending on the number of classes they take each semester. Alternatively, those enrolled in an accelerated program might earn their degrees in as little as one year.

A computer science master's program includes advanced coursework that can seem difficult to some students. Individuals with a limited background in calculus and statistics may find computer science theory concepts especially difficult to grasp. These students may want to take 200- or 300-level math classes that don't count toward the degree but can help familiarize them with foundational material.

While a computer science master's can help graduates secure a well-paying job in a range of industries, the value of graduate education in this field will vary depending on a student's personal goals and financial circumstances. This degree may be a worthwhile investment for individuals who want to learn more about computer science theory and how to apply it in real-world situations. It can also be a smart choice for those who don't necessarily have a background in computer science but who are interested in technology and considering a career change.