Graduate Computer Science Programs

Professor Chen Li with studentsThe field of Computer Science is concerned with the design, analysis and implementation of computer systems as well as the use of computation as it is applied to virtually every field of study and use in the everyday world. Core research areas include artificial intelligence and machine learning, bioinformatics, computer architecture, embedded systems, graphics and visual computing, databases and information management, multimedia, networked and distributed systems, programming languages and compilers, security and cryptography, design and analysis of algorithms, scientific computing, and ubiquitous computing. Thus, the graduate degrees offered by the Department of Computer Science must be broad and flexible programs that provide students opportunities for graduate study in the full spectrum of intellectual activity in computer science. The Department of Computer Science currently offers the following graduate degrees:

For detailed information on the above degrees, visit the program pages or check out the UCI Catalogue.

Compare the MCS and MSCS degrees to see which one is right for you...

Professional Master of Computer Science (MCS) M.S. in Computer Science (MSCS)
Focus
  • This is a professional program designed for students interested in careers in high-tech industry, business and government related fields.
  • Dedicated Faculty advising throughout the program
  • Extensive Academic and Career planning
 This is a Master of Science program designed for students interested in:

  • research
  • possible future PhD programs
  • careers in industry or academia
Target Student Population
  • Students interested in professional preparation
  • Those drawn to a shorter time to degree
 Research oriented students
Time to Degree 4 quarters, with 1 quarter optional internship 5-6 quarters
Units 44 units (11 courses) – see site for course descriptions Minimum 47 units (14 courses)
Tuition $43,000 Residents: $5,660.5 per quarter
Non-Resident: $10,695 per quarter
Degree Master of Computer Science Master of Science
Fellowships Limited, up to 50% of tuition for Domestic students only with demonstrated need. Self-funded
Schedule Classes and labs offered primarily in the evenings Classes and labs offered throughout day
Capstone YES – Developing professional design and writing skills NONE – Thesis or comprehensive exam options instead
GRE Required? YES
Letter of Recommendations Minimum 3
TOEFL/IELTS Required?
  • International students – YES.
  • The minimum TOEFL score is 80. For more information, please see Graduate Division’s English Proficiency site.
  • UCI will only waive the TOEFL requirement for applicants who have completed ALL requirements for a B.S., M.S. or Ph.D. degree in the U.S. prior to submitting their application.
  • As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit scores from the Academic Modules of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).UC Irvine only accepts scores submitted electronically by the IELTS test center. An overall score of 7 for admission, with a score of no less than 6 on any individual module.
Undergraduate Degree Required – Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or related fields, or professional experience