Skip to main content

Computer Science

Master of Computer Science

The graduate program in computer science offers a comprehensive approach to the theory and application of computer science. Graduates of the program will have:

  • A thorough grounding in the theory of computing science and the ability to apply that knowledge to a variety of problem areas,
  • Been exposed to a variety of analytical methods and will demonstrate a basic understanding of those methods, and
  • Been exposed to a wide breadth of computer science information by having studied several of the dominant sub-disciplines of computer science.

The program is individualized to meet each student's needs and provides a firm foundation for continuing on to the doctorate or a professional career. The program accommodates both full-time and part-time students.

The student seeking admission should have a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 out of 4.0. For success in the program the student should have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, engineering, or one of the sciences. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related field is preferred.

Graduate credit from other accredited institutions of graduate learning will be reviewed by the graduate committees. Transfer of such credit may be accepted up to a maximum of six semester hours.

Graduate Admissions >


The degree requires thirty semester hours, as follows:

  • Required Core Courses – nine semester hours as follows:
    - One course from either CPS 530 or CPS 543
    - One course from either CPS 536 or CPS 570
    - One course from either CPS 510 or CPS 542
  • CPS Electives – fifteen semester hours from CPS courses numbered 510 and above. Up to six of these semester hours can be 400-level CPS courses and must be approved by an advisor. Up to six of these semester hours can be taken from graduate courses of other university departments (with advisor approval).
  • Culminating Experience – six semester hours, from one of the following three options:
    - Master's Thesis
    - Software Engineering Project
    - Additional CPS courses numbered 510 and above

Each student's program requires the advance approval of the Graduate Program Director. A student failing to make normal progress will be required to withdraw from the program.

Students are expected to have a better than average knowledge of algorithm construction and implementation of algorithms in an object-oriented language. Students are encouraged to take CPS 501 during their first term as a graduate student. This course counts towards the 30 graduate semester hours needed for the degree. They should discuss this with the Graduate Program Director prior to registering for any courses.


The Graduate Program in Computer Science at the University of Dayton provides many unique opportunities in which the student can gain academic excellence and achieve hands-on, practical experience.

Department Graduate Assistantships

Assistantships are offered to outstanding graduate students. For information on eligibility and the application process, consult with the chair or the faculty member you plan to assist.

Faculty Research Opportunities

Students at both undergraduate and graduate levels are always welcome to aid with faculty research. For details, please contact the faculty member whose research projects best fit your interest.

Graduate Student Summer Fellowships

The University of Dayton provides a number of graduate student summer fellowships for research and creative projects during the third term of the academic year. The intent of the fellowship is to provide a modest income for the graduate student who wishes to devote time to a research project. This fellowship is intended to assist in the completion of the student's master's thesis or doctoral dissertation research, or research leading to publication.


Here are some of the most frequently asked questions. If you need additional information, please email us at cpsadvising@udayton.edu and let our team know how we can assist you.

How do I apply to the Master of Computer Science program at the University of Dayton?

You can find more information about our program, the application process, and admission requirements here. Check out the Graduate Admissions website for more application details. If you are a prospective international student, you can find admission details here

Can I get a waiver for the application fee?

There is no application fee to apply for the MCS program at the University of Dayton. 

Do I need to take the GRE?

The GRE is not required to apply for the MCS program at the University of Dayton. 

Are there any scholarships available?

The Department of Computer Science at the University of Dayton does not provide scholarships to students. In this page you will find more information regarding affordability at UD. International students can look at this page for additional information regarding scholarships.

How can I apply for a graduate assistantship position?

The Department of Computer Science at the University of Dayton has some graduate assistantship positions in the department; these are very limited and competitive. Only students that have completed at least one (1) semester are eligible to apply for these. We encourage students to apply for grader positions, this person supports the instructor with grading and providing office hours for tutoring. However, the instructor should still select you for such a position. Once you take a course with an instructor, do your best in the course and let the instructor get to know you.

Do I need to show proof of English proficiency for admission?

You can find more information about language proficiency here. If you have additional questions, please contact goglobalgraduate@udayton.edu

How do I attach my required documents?

Once you submit your application for admission, you can submit the required documents via email to goglobalgraduate@udayton.edu

Do I need to submit financial documents with my application?

In order to complete your application and expedite the I-20 process, you are required to submit financial documentation or a letter of sponsorship from your home country. For more information regarding financials, please visit: https://udayton.edu/apply/international/graduate/visa-gr.php.

I submitted my documents but I haven't heard anything. What should I do?

Please allow a minimum of 6-8 weeks for your documents to be added to your application file and for your Admission Account checklist to be updated (go.udayton.edu/gradadmissionaccount). For additional questions, feel free to contact goglobalgraduate@udayton.edu.

What are the deadlines to apply for admission?

The Department of Computer Science has a rolling admission. We encourage international students to follow the deadlines on this page: 

https://udayton.edu/apply/international/graduate/index.php

What courses will I have to take for the program?

The Master of Computer Science program at the University of Dayton requires 30 semester hours. These hours include core courses, electives and a culminating experience. You can find more information about the course requirements here. For detailed descriptions of the courses, click here

I am a UDGlobal student, who can I contact with additional questions?

UDGlobal students may contact the UDGlobal team at admissions@udaytonglobal.org, or visit their website by clicking here

Research opportunities

Students in the Master of Computer Science program can work with faculty in a variety of ways such as on a thesis, project, or sponsored research. The best way to get started is to contact faculty in person (preferred) or by email and find out what research they are working on and how you can get involved. Some of the cutting-edge research taking place in the department are in the following areas: Data Science, Cyber Security, Autonomous Systems, Deep Learning, Software Engineering, Data Visualization and Robotics, etc.


CONTACT

Department of Computer Science

Hathcock Hall
300 College Park
Dayton, Ohio 45469 - 2160
937-229-3831
Email