31 March 2025
5 minutes read
UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program (Master of Science in Computer)
29 August 2024
5 minutes read
Key Takeaways
- The UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program offers top-tier research opportunities and a rigorous curriculum for aspiring scholars.
- Admission to the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program requires a strong academic background and standardized test scores.
- Graduates of the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program secure high-paying roles in tech, academia, and research.
The UCLA CS Graduate Program is the most highly ranked graduate program in the United States. Provided by the Computer Science Department at UCLA, the CS graduate program offers advanced education and research opportunities in electrical engineering, artificial intelligence, and software systems.
The CS department provides both a Master of Science in Computer Science (MS in CS) and a Ph.D. for students seeking academic or industrial careers. The program focuses on a comprehensive application process, advanced research, and a wide range of courses in computer science to suit various career goals.
What are the Programs Offered at the UCLA?
The UCLA graduate program in CS provides computer science masters and Ph.D. degrees under the computer science department. Being a top-ranking institution, computer science at UCLA gives students a strong academic background and wide research opportunities.
Degree options can be found on the UCLA graduate division website, and the computer science department maintains a curriculum with changing industry demands in mind.
Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science
The MS program as part of the computer science program at UCLA prepares students for both industry and academic research. The master’s degree in computer science can be pursued with a thesis or coursework-only option. Students must complete a combination of courses from the following fields:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Software Engineering and Applied Science
- Data Science and Machine Learning
- Networking and Cybersecurity
- Theory of Computation
The CS MS program is a 1-year program that is starting in Fall 2024, and students must start the MS program before Fall 2024 to meet enrollment requirements. Admission into the M.S. program is competitive and based on multiple factors.
Ph.D. in Computer Science
For students who wish to pursue a career in research or academia, the computer science Ph.D. program focuses on original contributions to the field. Admission into the Ph.D. program requires strong academic performance, research potential, and faculty support.
What are the Admission Requirements for Computer Science Program at UCLA?
Admission to our graduate program in computer science at UCLA is highly competitive, requiring a strong academic background and research potential. Prospective students must synch up to your graduate studies by carefully preparing their application materials and meeting all deadlines. To be considered, applicants must be CS faculty-sponsored, ensuring alignment with UCLA’s research goals. The degree prepares students for advanced roles in academia and industry.
Additionally, applicants must submit part of their application package, including transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters. Those planning to start the MS program fall semester should review eligibility criteria, application deadline, along with information on the cost of attendance.
Academic Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- A minimum GPA of 3.50 in any graduate study
- Completion of prerequisite computer science courses
- Must be CS faculty-sponsored
Standardized Tests:
- GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores
- TOEFL or IELTS for non-native English speakers
- Other tests like GMAT or SAT are not required
Additional Requirements:
- Three letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume and research experience (for Ph.D. applicants)
Application Process
The graduate admissions application process involves several steps. Prospective students who wish to apply for admission should follow these guidelines:
- Submit the UCLA Graduate Division online application
- Pay the required application fee
- Provide official transcripts
- Submit standardized test scores
- Upload personal statements and recommendation letters
Curriculum & Courses
Students in the CS graduate program can select from a broad selection of courses. The curriculum includes the following computer science courses:
| Course Code | Course Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| CS 111 | Operating Systems | Foundations of system software |
| CS 118 | Computer Networks | Network design and protocols |
| CS 143 | Database Systems | Principles of database management |
| CS 174A | Computer Graphics | Techniques in computer rendering |
| CS 180 | Algorithms and Complexity | Advanced algorithmic techniques |
Students can take CS courses or any combination of courses from different fields. The requirements for the degree vary based on whether students choose the MS thesis option or the coursework-only route.
Research Opportunities
The CS department at UCLA is renowned for its contributions to technology and research. Students admitted into our M.S. program or Ph.D. program can work in cutting-edge labs specializing in:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Embedded Computing
- Cybersecurity and Privacy
- Human-Computer Interaction
Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid
The cost of attendance is available on the graduate division webpage for information regarding tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Financial aid options include:
- Fellowships and assistantships
- Scholarships for outstanding students
- Research funding opportunities
UCLA students and alumni may qualify for additional funding options through the UCLA graduate division.
Graduate Program Student Affairs Office
For inquiries, the Computer Science Graduate Student Affairs Office provides guidance on:
- Efforts to process application material
- Course selection and degree planning
- Career placement and internship opportunities
The science graduate student affairs office also handles queries related to graduate education and post-graduation options.
Top 10 Universities Other than UCLA for Computer Science
While UCLA is a top choice for a Master’s in Computer Science, many other universities offer excellent programs worldwide. These institutions attract applicants for admission due to their strong faculty, cutting-edge research, and high post-graduation salaries. Students with a bachelor’s degree from a university can explore these alternatives, considering factors like tuition, salaries, and admission exams.
Many institutions require a graduate application, standardized tests, and a first exam report to UCLA if applying for a joint appointment with the UCLA CS department. An offer of admission depends on meeting eligibility criteria, often set by faculty in the department and based on prior academic achievements.
Below is a comparative table of some of the best universities:
| Sl. No | University Name | Country | Fee (Annual) | Average Salary | Exams Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stanford University | USA | $60,000 | $150,000 | GRE, IELTS, TOEFL |
| 2 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | USA | $58,000 | $155,000 | GRE, IELTS, TOEFL |
| 3 | Carnegie Mellon University | USA | $57,000 | $140,000 | GRE, IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT |
| 4 | University of California, Berkeley | USA | $45,000 | $135,000 | GRE, IELTS, TOEFL |
| 5 | University of Cambridge | UK | £40,000 | £90,000 | IELTS, TOEFL |
| 6 | University of Oxford | UK | £42,000 | £95,000 | IELTS, TOEFL |
| 7 | University of Toronto | Canada | CAD 45,000 | CAD 120,000 | GRE, IELTS, TOEFL |
| 8 | ETH Zurich | Switzerland | CHF 1,500 | CHF 130,000 | IELTS, TOEFL |
| 9 | Harvard University | USA | $60,000 | $145,000 | GRE, IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT |
| 10 | Imperial College London | UK | £39,000 | £88,000 | IELTS, TOEFL, GRE |
These universities offer outstanding graduate application opportunities, supported by faculty in the department to ensure students receive world-class education. The official UCLA website provides further resources for students considering joint appointment with the UCLA CS department.
Conclusion
The UCLA graduate programs in computer science offer an excellent academic foundation for students looking to advance their careers in research or industry. By meeting the following requirements and completing the graduate admissions application, students can embark on a rewarding journey in one of the world’s most recognized computer science programs.
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FAQs
What are the admission requirements for the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program?
Admission to the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program requires a strong academic record, standardized test scores, and recommendation letters.
What is the application deadline for the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program?
The UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program has an application deadline of December 15 for fall admissions.
Does the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program require the GRE?
The UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program may require GRE scores, but applicants should check the latest admission criteria.
What courses are offered in the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program?
The UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program offers a broad selection of courses in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science.
What is the tuition cost for the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program?
The UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program tuition varies, and updated information is available on the UCLA Graduate Division website.
Can international students apply to the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program?
Yes, international students can apply to the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program and must submit IELTS or TOEFL scores.
What career opportunities are available after completing the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program?
Graduates of the UCLA Computer Science Graduate Program secure roles in top tech firms, academia, and research institutions.
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