Program Overview
The Master of Science in Computer Science at Wayne State University is a rigorous postgraduate programme delivered on-campus at Wayne State University. 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 1–2 years, 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
Program highlights
- Two concentrations: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Autonomous Driving
- Online format: AI concentration
- Flexible study options: Choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks
- Hands-on, research-driven learning with access to funded research opportunities
- No GRE required to apply
What you'll learn in the M.S. computer science program
In this program, you'll gain the foundational theory and hands-on skills to thrive in today’s tech-driven landscape. From core courses in algorithms and automata to specialized electives, your learning journey is designed to be both rigorous and relevant.
You’ll explore high-demand disciplines such as software engineering, cybersecurity, AI, computer vision, data mining, and real-time systems—preparing you to build, maintain, and improve complex computing systems across industries.
Depending on your chosen concentration, you'll also develop advanced proficiency in tools and languages like C++, SQL, DirectX, Lisp, Prolog, and more. This practical, project-based curriculum ensures you graduate with the ability to apply your learning in real-world scenarios.
In addition, you'll have the chance to attend graduate seminars and connect with national experts—gaining insights into the future of computing and emerging technologies.
Curriculum
You’ll complete 30 credit hours through a flexible thesis (Plan A) or non-thesis (Plan C) track. Further tailor your degree with concentrations in Artificial Intelligence or Autonomous Driving to match your interests and career goals.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities
With a median salary of $105,990 ( BLS ), careers in computer science are both rewarding and in high demand. As a Wayne State M.S. in Computer Science graduate, you'll be prepared for a variety of roles in industry, government, academia, and non-profit organizations. Career paths include:
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Network Systems Administrator
- Information Security Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Computer Network Architect
- Software Development Engineer
This program also provides a strong foundation for pursuing a Ph.D. in computer science or related fields.
Tuition and financial aid
Invest in your future at a low overall cost. Wayne State University is the most affordable of the nation’s top research universities and offers a number of scholarships and on-campus job opportunities .
Learn more about Wayne State’s cost of attendance and financial information for international students .
Admission requirements
You must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a STEM-related field from an accredited college or university. A minimum GPA of 2.75 is required for regular admission, and applicants with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.74 may qualify for conditional admission.
Program Curriculum
Curriculum
You’ll complete 30 credit hours through a flexible thesis (Plan A) or non-thesis (Plan C) track. Further tailor your degree with concentrations in Artificial Intelligence or Autonomous Driving to match your interests and career goals.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) concentration Format: Traditional or Online Gain the skills to excel in heavy industrial environments through courses focused on: Digital Image Processing Intelligent Systems Game Programming and Design Data Mining Machine Learning
Autonomous driving concentration Format: Traditional Gain the skills to excel in heavy industrial environments through courses focused on: Embedded Operating Systems Cyber-Physical Systems Machine Learning and Applications Data Mining Machine Learning
Review the M.S. computer science curriculum
Career opportunities
With a median salary of $105,990 ( BLS ), careers in computer science are both rewarding and in high demand. As a Wayne State M.S. in Computer Science graduate, you'll be prepared for a variety of roles in industry, government, academia, and non-profit organizations. Career paths include:
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Network Systems Administrator
- Information Security Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Computer Network Architect
- Software Development Engineer
This program also provides a strong foundation for pursuing a Ph.D. in computer science or related fields.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements
You must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a STEM-related field from an accredited college or university. A minimum GPA of 2.75 is required for regular admission, and applicants with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.74 may qualify for conditional admission.
Professional experience will also be considered as part of your application. GRE scores are not required .
You must be admitted to Wayne State's Graduate School, the College of Engineering, and the Department of Computer Science.
Review full admission requirements
For applicants without a CS background
If you don’t have a strong background in computer science, you may still qualify for the program by completing a set of prerequisite courses. You’re encouraged to apply for undergraduate admission as a second major to complete the full prerequisite list. Please note that graduate-level prerequisite coursework does not transfer to the master’s program.
Some prerequisite requirements may be waived based on your existing knowledge or experience, as determined by the Graduate Program Director.
- Prerequisite requirements CSC 1100 Problem Solving and Programming (4 Credits) CSC 1500 Fundamental Structures in Computer Science (4 Credits) CSC 2110 Computer Science I (4 Credits) CSC 2200 Computer Science II (4 Credits) CSC 3100 Computer Architecture and Organization (4 Credits) CSC 3110 Algorithm Design and Analysis (3 Credits) CSC 4420 Computer Operating Systems (4 Credits) CSC 4500 Introduction to Theoretical Computer Science (3 Credits) MAT 2010 Calculus I (4 Credits) MAT 2020 Calculus II (4 Credits) MAT 2250 Elementary Linear Algebra (3 Credits) BE 2100 Basic Engineering III: Probability and Statistics in Engineering (3 Credits)
- CSC 1100 Problem Solving and Programming (4 Credits)
- CSC 1500 Fundamental Structures in Computer Science (4 Credits)
- CSC 2110 Computer Science I (4 Credits)
- CSC 2200 Computer Science II (4 Credits)
- CSC 3100 Computer Architecture and Organization (4 Credits)
- CSC 3110 Algorithm Design and Analysis (3 Credits)
- CSC 4420 Computer Operating Systems (4 Credits)
- CSC 4500 Introduction to Theoretical Computer Science (3 Credits)
- MAT 2010 Calculus I (4 Credits)
- MAT 2020 Calculus II (4 Credits)
- MAT 2250 Elementary Linear Algebra (3 Credits)
- BE 2100 Basic Engineering III: Probability and Statistics in Engineering (3 Credits)
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
Contact university
Tuition and financial aid
Invest in your future at a low overall cost. Wayne State University is the most affordable of the nation’s top research universities and offers a number of scholarships and on-campus job opportunities .
Learn more about Wayne State’s cost of attendance and financial information for international students .
Admission requirements
You must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a STEM-related field from an accredited college or university. A minimum GPA of 2.75 is required for regular admission, and applicants with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.74 may qualify for conditional admission.
Professional experience will also be considered as part of your application. GRE scores are not required .
You must be admitted to Wayne State's Graduate School, the College of Engineering, and the Department of Computer Science.
Review full admission requirements
For applicants without a CS background
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Tuition and financial aid
Invest in your future at a low overall cost. Wayne State University is the most affordable of the nation’s top research universities and offers a number of scholarships and on-campus job opportunities .
Learn more about Wayne State’s cost of attendance and financial information for international students .
Admission requirements
You must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a STEM-related field from an accredited college or university. A minimum GPA of 2.75 is required for regular admission, and applicants with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.74 may qualify for conditional admission.
Professional experience will also be considered as part of your application. GRE scores are not required .
You must be admitted to Wayne State's Graduate School, the College of Engineering, and the Department of Computer Science.
Review full admission requirements
For applicants without a CS background
About Wayne State University
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States
Wayne State University is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields. The...
University Profile- Application Deadline 2018-02-01
- Start Date 2018-01-01
- Language English
- Credits 60–120 ECTS (confirm with the university)