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QS Rank:

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34

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Columbia University

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New York

United States

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Program Rank

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13

Embark on a transformative journey with the Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program at Columbia University, located in the vibrant city of New York. This prestigious program, part of The FU Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, is designed to equip you with the essential skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. The MSCS not only emphasizes a robust academic foundation in critical computer science domains but also encourages practical experience through research and hands-on projects.

The curriculum for the MSCS program is comprehensive, addressing both foundational and advanced topics. Your studies will cover diverse areas such as programming languages, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, computer architecture, and machine learning. In addition, students will engage in specialized courses that delve into cybersecurity, database management, and artificial intelligence. Each course is taught by distinguished faculty members, many of whom are leaders in their fields, providing you with insights that extend beyond the conventional classroom experience.

One of the standout features of the MSCS program is its commitment to research excellence. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects alongside esteemed faculty. These collaborations often lead to published papers and presentations at major conferences, significantly enhancing your academic profile. Moreover, the program includes the Master's Project and Capstone Project, which allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, ensuring that you graduate not only with knowledge but also with practical skills.

In addition to the rigorous academic offerings, the MSCS program at Columbia boasts extensive industry connections. The university's strategic location in New York City offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, internships, and employment after graduation. The program's strong ties to leading technology firms and startups facilitate numerous internship possibilities, helping students to gain hands-on experience and build valuable professional networks. Graduates of the program can expect a median base salary of $110,000, with many securing positions in high-demand roles such as Data Engineer, Software Engineer, and Data Scientist.

Admission to the MSCS program is competitive, with an acceptance rate of only 4%. Applicants are evaluated based on several factors, including academic performance, relevant research experience, and strong letters of recommendation. The program typically enrolls around 50 students annually, fostering a close-knit community where collaboration and peer learning thrive. With a diverse student body, the program also enriches your learning experience by exposing you to various perspectives and approaches within the tech industry.

Why Study Master of Science in Computer Science at Columbia University?

  • Renowned Faculty: Learn from leading experts in computer science who are actively conducting research and contributing to technological advancements.
  • Cutting-Edge Curriculum: Experience a curriculum that is constantly updated to reflect the latest trends and technologies in computer science.
  • Research Opportunities: Engage in meaningful research projects that can lead to significant contributions in the field.
  • Strong Industry Connections: Benefit from Columbia's location in New York City, which opens doors to internships and job placements in top-tier organizations.
  • Diverse Student Body: Join a diverse group of learners from various backgrounds, enriching your educational experience and professional network.
  • High Earning Potential: Graduates are well-prepared for lucrative careers in technology, with a median salary that reflects the demand for skilled professionals.

The MSCS program also emphasizes holistic development, preparing students for various career pathways in the tech industry. Graduates have found success as Data Scientists, Software Engineers, and Computer Systems Analysts, among other roles. The program's comprehensive approach, combining academic rigor with practical experience, positions students to make a significant impact within the tech ecosystem. Notably, alumni have lauded the program for its ability to open doors and provide the necessary skills to excel in their careers.

Applicants should be aware of the program's prerequisites, which include a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and a Bachelor's degree with at least 16 years of education. While the GRE requirement is waived, non-native English speakers must provide TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores to demonstrate English proficiency. Successful applicants will need to prepare a compelling application package, including transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume, and letters of recommendation to showcase their qualifications and aspirations.

In conclusion, the Master of Science in Computer Science program at Columbia University is a gateway to a successful career in technology. With a strong emphasis on research, a rich curriculum, and vibrant industry connections, students are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the digital age. Whether you aim to develop innovative software solutions, analyze complex data sets, or contribute to groundbreaking research, the MSCS program offers you the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a competitive landscape.

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Total Tuition Fees

$1,00,120

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Duration

18 Months

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Median Salary

$1,10,000

Ranking

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#18

US World and News Report

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#11

The World University Rankings

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#34

QS World University Rankings

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Intake

Spring ( Apr - June )

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Fall ( Sept - Nov )

Class Profile

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Class Size

20

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Average Age

26

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Average Work Experience

2 Years

Diversity

California:

20%

Florida:

5%

Illinois:

4%

Texas:

10%

New York:

30%

Others:

31%

Career Outcomes

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Median Earnings After Graduation

$1,10,000 / year

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Graduation Rate

94%

Prospective Job Roles

Data Engineer

Front-end Developer

Software Engineer

Back-end Developer

Web Designer

Data Scientist

Business Analyst

Data Architect

Computer Scientist

Embedded Systems Engineer

Data analyst

Computer Support Specialist

Computer Graphics Engineer

Computer Engineer

Computer Systems Analyst

Policy Analyst

Computer Science Teacher

Top recruiters

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Eligibility Criteria

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At least 3 / 4 undergraduate GPA is expected.

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At least 16 years of bachelor degree.

English Proficiency Tests

  • IELTS

    6.5

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  • PTE

    68

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  • TOEFL

    99

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  • DUOLINGO

    134

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Standardised Test Score

  • GRE

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Application Requirements

Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

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Application Fee: 120

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    Transcript

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    Statement of Purpose

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    Resume

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    TOEFL

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    Academic LOR

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    Professional LOR

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    Professional LOR

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    Interview

Application Deadlines

Priority 1Standard Deadline
FallJan 15, 2025Feb 15, 2025
SpringN/AOct 15, 2024

Fees and Funding

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Tuition Fees

$50,060 / year

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Overall Cost

$78,000 / year

FAQs

  • If you only have one name, please enter that name in both the first name and last name sections of the application.
  • No. You may apply to only one program at a time. Do not apply to more than one program at Columbia Engineering for a given term or the applications you submit may be invalidated. Do not create new accounts to create additional applications.
  • Domestic students may enroll part-time (fewer than 12 credits) per term if the program allows for this. Most MS on-campus programs allow part-time enrollment. However, some MS programs may require students to enroll full-time, such as the Chemical Engineering MS program. As an alternative, if you have other obligations or require a flexible schedule you may consider applying for CVN which allows all students to enroll part-time. Visit the department websites for more program details.
  • Yes. However, if you are accepted, you must complete the MS at Columbia University before continuing toward the PhD. This is referred to as the MS-PhD Track Program.

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