Program Overview
The Master of Science in Computer Science at Loyola University Chicago is a rigorous postgraduate programme delivered on-campus at Loyola University Chicago. Designed for graduates and professionals seeking advanced expertise in computer science & it, the programme develops both theoretical foundations and applied skills essential for today's competitive environment.
Spanning 16 months, students engage with cutting-edge research, industry-relevant case studies, and practical projects. Instruction is delivered in English by research-active faculty with professional expertise.
The programme culminates in a dissertation or capstone project. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles, research careers, and doctoral study in computer science & it.
Key Program Features
- Immersive On-Campus Experience: In-person seminars, laboratory sessions, and professional networking at Loyola University Chicago.
- Expert Faculty: Taught by research-active academics and practitioners with deep expertise in Computer Science & IT.
- Diverse International Cohort: Study alongside students from around the world, broadening your global professional network.
- Research-Informed Curriculum: Content grounded in the latest academic research and real-world industry practice.
- Dissertation / Capstone Project: Culminating independent project applying your expertise to an original research question or industry challenge.
- Dedicated Career Support: Access to career coaching, employer networking events, and job placement assistance.
- 16 months Duration: Part-time and accelerated options may be available — enquire with the admissions office.
Career Opportunities
MS in Computer Science: Career Connections
As a graduate of the MS in Computer Science program you will be prepared for a range of professional opportunities in one of the country’s fastest-growing industries.
Specific job options include:
- Researcher
- Software engineer
- Computer security analyst
- Web developer
- Software developer
- Software quality assurance analysts and testers
- Web and digital interface designer
Because Loyola is a member of the Jesuit network of 27 colleges and universities nationwide, our graduates can access career advising services, resume and interviewing assistance, career fairs and events, and employment listings in our Career Services center , as well as at career centers at other U.S. Jesuit colleges and universities.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook is a good place to start exploring the job outlook and pay potential for specific careers and fields that interest you.
Program Curriculum
Program Structure
The MS in Computer Science is a 30-credit-hour program consisting of 10 courses. You will take two required courses, choose four electives from a selection of advanced computer science courses, and complete the program with four additional electives that can include research, courses in related areas, or in other areas of computer science. Depending on your undergraduate background, up to five prerequisite courses in software development may be required. The MS in Computer Science can be pursued full-time or part-time . Classes are held weekday evenings at Loyola's Lake Shore Campus , conveniently located on Chicago's North Side and a short train ride away from downtown. The majority of the courses are also offered online.
Admission Requirements
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Computer Science MS include:
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- 3.0 Minimum GPA
- Statement of Purpose
Prerequisite Course Requirements
This program requires preparation courses in computer science or a related field before beginning the curriculum, but students who have not completed the designated courses may be admitted to the program and take additional courses to fulfill prerequisite requirements. Learn more about the Computer Science MS curriculum and prerequisite courses on the Computer Science MS Academic Catalog page .
Statement of Purpose Details
Please write a brief statement describing your academic and research interests as well as your professional goals.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
USD 1,033/year (international)
Accelerated Master's Pathway Cost Benefit
This program has an Accelerated Master's Pathway (AMP) for current Loyola undergraduates . Through the AMP, you can lower the cost of a master's degree by earning graduate credits at undergraduate tuition rates (before your undergraduate degree is conferred). Once you graduate with your bachelor’s degree, you will also be eligible for the Returning Rambler Scholarship , offering 25% off graduate tuition.
Tuition and Costs
Program Credit Hours Cost Per Credit Hour Estimated Tuition and Fees Computer Science MS 30 $1,270.00 $ 38100 .00
For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.
The Graduate School Funding Opportunities
Information about funding opportunities within The Graduate School can be found on The Graduate School website .
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Financial Aid & Funding Opportunities
A range of funding options may be available to students enrolling at Loyola University Chicago. Explore all options early — many scholarships have deadlines months before programme start.
- University Scholarships: Loyola University Chicago may offer merit-based, need-based, or programme-specific scholarships for postgraduate students. Contact the international or financial aid office for current awards.
- Government Scholarships (): National governments often fund outbound and inbound student mobility. Check your home country's government scholarship schemes (e.g., national student loan bodies, ministry of education awards).
- International Scholarships: Major funders include: Commonwealth Scholarships, Fulbright (USA programmes), Chevening (UK), Erasmus+ (Europe), DAAD (Germany), Campus France, Australia Awards, and many more.
- Employer Sponsorship: Professionals returning to study may negotiate tuition sponsorship with their employer, particularly for MBA or executive programmes.
- Graduate Assistantships / Fellowships: Some universities offer funded research or teaching assistant positions that include a stipend and partial or full tuition waiver.
- External Foundations: Rotary Foundation, Aga Khan Foundation, Ford Foundation, and many discipline-specific bodies fund postgraduate study globally.
- Payment Plans: Flexible instalment plans may allow you to spread tuition payments across the academic year.
About Loyola University Chicago
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, United States
Loyola University Chicago is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields....
University Profile- Start Date 2018-08-28
- Language English
- Duration 16 months
- Credits 60–120 ECTS (confirm with the university)