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Turn Your Curiosity Into Research

Vanderbilt Master's in Computer Science

Vanderbilt’s MS Computer Science program equips you to build deep technical expertise and shape what comes next in computing. Shape a flexible curriculum around your goals while working with a faculty advisor matched to your research interests from day one.

Two students working together at a laptop at a Vanderbilt showcase

Program Snapshot

  • 1.5–2 Years

    Length

  • 1:1 Advising

    Faculty advisor from day one

  • 2 Tracks

    Thesis or non-thesis, depending on your career goals

Three Things That Set This Program Apart

The Faculty Advisor

Every MS in Computer Science student partners with a faculty advisor from day one, matched to the research they came here to pursue.

Ask about advising

Focus Areas

Build expertise in AI and machine learning, then apply it to robotics, autonomous systems and the software companies run on every day, whether your next step is research or industry.

See the curriculum

Two Tracks

The MS in Computer Science offers two tracks: write a thesis to prepare for research or a Ph.D., or build a portfolio that shows employers exactly what you can do. Choose the track that fits where you're headed.

Compare the tracks

The Curriculum

Build a schedule around your ambitions. Strengthen your foundation in algorithms and systems design, then put it to work in project courses, such as cloud computing and machine learning. Explore specialized topics like intelligent surgical robots, or take electives beyond computer science when your goals call for it. Research areas range from computing foundations and network systems to intelligent systems and medical image computing.

Research with your advisor. Your thesis is guided by your faculty advisor and an additional CCC faculty member, and ends in a defense.

30 credits

  • 12 credits of advanced core: four courses at the 6000 level
  • 12 credits of electives
  • 6 credits of thesis research

Who This Program Is For

Get real research experience without committing to a Ph.D. The MS in Computer Science is built for computer science, engineering and science majors with strong computing coursework. Name the topics and faculty that interest you on your application, and we'll work to match you with an advisor.

International Applicants

English proficiency

Minimum scores by test:

  • TOEFL iBT: 4.5 (comparable to about 90), no section below 4.0
  • IELTS Academic: 7.0, no band below 6.0
  • Duolingo English Test: 130

Credential evaluation

If you earned your degree outside the United States, submit a course-by-course credential evaluation from WES or another NACES member with your application. You can upload it yourself; it does not need to be sent directly from the evaluator. Fees vary by provider, and evaluations can take several weeks, so we recommend ordering yours as soon as you start your application.

Application Deadlines

  • October 15

    Spring 2027 entry

  • January 15

    Fall 2027 priority deadline

  • March 1

    Fall 2027 regular deadline

Funding your degree

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Merit scholarships are considered automatically with admission. No separate application.

Renewing awards: scholarships are annual and renew for your second year.

Ask us about scholarships

The future doesn't belong to those who code. It belongs to those who connect computing to every human endeavor.

Matthew Johnson-Roberson, Founding Dean of the College of Connected Computing Matthew Johnson-Roberson
Founding Dean, College of Connected Computing

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I do research as a master's student?

    Yes. Research is required on the thesis track, and every student is paired with a faculty advisor based on the preferences you list on the application. On the non-thesis track, research is possible but not guaranteed.

  • Can I switch tracks?

    Yes. You pick a track on your application and can change it during your first semester, so you do not have to decide before you arrive.

  • When can I start, and how long does it take?

    Fall or spring. Apply by Oct. 15 for spring 2027 entry, or by Jan. 15 (priority) or March 1 (regular) for fall 2027 entry. Most students finish in two years, some in eighteen months.

  • Do I need a computer science degree?

    You need the preparation. Five undergraduate courses are highly encouraged: data structures, computer organization, algorithms, programming languages and operating systems. Engineering and science majors with heavy computing coursework are a good fit too.

  • What do students do in the summer?

    There are no summer courses. Thesis students may pursue research over the summer.

  • Can I move into the PhD program after I start?

    Yes, as a traditional applicant in the fall or spring cycle. There is no guaranteed pathway.

  • Are scholarships available?

    Yes. Merit scholarships are considered automatically with admission, and awards renew for your second year. Fill out the information form and a member of the enrollment team will reach out to discuss what you may qualify for.

    Have a question we did not answer? Request information and we will get back to you.