[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science (CS) has a reputation for being difficult. Surveys, blogs, and school newspapers have reported that CS as a college major has one of the highest dropout rates.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Given this reputation, it’s hard to imagine you could get a master’s in computer science without a CS undergrad degree — but it’s possible. Many colleges and universities offer computer science master’s degree programs for non-CS majors who meet certain requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Explore this guide to learn about these programs’ admission requirements, coursework, and potential rewards.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]10 Best Online Master’s in Computer Science Without CS Undergrad of 2025[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How We Chose These Schools”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At TheBestSchools, we use trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools without bias. Our ranking methodology helps prospective students from various backgrounds find the best fit. We consider key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability so every type of student can find the best fit for them.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This list has been updated for 2025. Learn more about how our formula works on [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”]our ranking methodology page[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Master’s in Computer Science?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many master’s in computer science programs sharpen technical proficiencies, develop critical thinking abilities, and encourage innovative research.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most computer science master’s degrees require 30-36 credits through a mix of core subjects, electives, and research. Students typically take courses in computer science theory alongside classes about using technical tools to solve real-world problems.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some programs conclude with a capstone project or a thesis. Generally, full-time learners complete these degrees in 1-2 years, while part-time students often take 2-3 years.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Can You Get a Master’s in Computer Science Without a CS Undergrad Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes — you can earn a master’s in computer science with a bachelor’s degree in a non-computer science field. Some institutions even offer specific programs for students without CS backgrounds.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, without a bachelor’s degree in the subject matter, you may need to complete [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]prerequisite CS courses [/hen-ui-link]or demonstrate skills in computer science through work experience or programming experience.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You may benefit from taking courses in discrete mathematics, computer science, or electrical engineering, even if they aren’t required for admission. Earning an industry-recognized certification in cybersecurity, coding, or another CS-related field may also help you stand out.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Common Admission Requirements in Place of CS Undergrad Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In the absence of a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-science/”]bachelor’s degree in computer science[/hen-ui-link], what do graduate admission officers look for in CS grad candidates? Each school’s admission committee makes its own decisions based on various factors.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Though specific criteria vary, the following components are common among master’s in computer science without CS undergrad requirements:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Prior Knowledge and Education[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You should hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools may require prerequisite engineering, mathematics, and computer science courses. Some institutions may even request a degree in a CS-adjacent field like math.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Programming Experience[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some programs may prefer that you have a foundational understanding of programming concepts, such as programming languages, variables, and source code.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Minimum GPA[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most schools require you to meet a minimum total GPA or a minimum GPA in the last 60 credits of your undergraduate program.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Work Experience[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Universities often request your resume. If you have worked in a technology-related job or in another professional role, your experience may boost your chances of admission.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Other Application Materials[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many schools require personal statements, letters of recommendation, and GRE or GMAT scores.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Choose an Online Master’s in CS Program: 5 Key Factors[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s degree is a serious commitment, so you want to be sure you’re making the right choice. While schools may have impressive websites and colorful branding, the best institutions provide a competitive degree at an affordable price. Consider the following factors as you make your selection:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]1. Check for Accreditation[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Limit your search to colleges and universities that hold [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]institutional accreditation[/hen-ui-link]. This status allows you to access financial aid options and gives your degree credibility in the marketplace.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.chea.org/chea-and-usde-recognized-accrediting-organizations” target=”_blank”]Regional accrediting associations[/hen-ui-link] include the Higher Learning Commission, the New England Commission of Higher Education, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.abet.org/accreditation/what-is-accreditation/what-programs-does-abet-accredit/” target=”_blank”]ABET’s Computing Accreditation Commission[/hen-ui-link] also accredits bachelor’s degrees in computer science but not master’s or doctoral-level programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]2. Graduate Success Outcomes[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Strong student outcomes are a valuable indicator of high-quality graduate programs. Your prospective school should be able to tell you how many students enrolled in their master’s in computer science program and how many finished the degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can also ask how many graduates found employment in the field within six months of graduation, the number of students who got raises or promotions, and the average graduate’s salary one year after completing the program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]3. Ensure Your Specific CS Area of Study Is Offered[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science majors may pursue general CS master’s degrees or more specialized options. As a non-CS major, you can follow the same path to gain a better understanding of computer science theory, tools, and techniques.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, because programs for non-CS majors welcome learners from other backgrounds, some concentrations may align better with your previous knowledge. If you plan to pursue a career in a specific area of CS, make sure that your prospective school offers the subject as a concentration.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]4. Program Length and Format[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most master’s degrees in computer science take 1-2 years to complete as a full-time student. They will take longer if you plan to study part-time. If you have an undergraduate degree in a non-CS subject, you may need to take additional courses, further extending your graduation timeline.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science programs are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. While in-person learning offers many benefits, studying computer science online can mean earning your degree more quickly and affordably.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]5. Cost[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many factors affect the cost of a degree, including a school’s prestige and its public or private status. In the 2023-24 academic year, the average tuition for graduate students at public and private universities was $11,827 and $20,515, respectively, according to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/trendgenerator/app/answer/13/207″ target=”_blank”]National Center for Education Statistics[/hen-ui-link] (NCES).[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/scholarships/”]Scholarships, grants[/hen-ui-link], and other types of [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/online-college-financial-aid/”]financial aid[/hen-ui-link] can help alleviate your education costs. Pursuing your CS degree online may help you save money, too. According to NCES’s most recent data, the median annual tuition for online master’s in computer science degrees was nearly half the cost of its in-person counterpart.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can I Do With a Master’s in Computer Science Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s in computer science can lead to careers in creating or managing technology. With a non-CS background, you can bring complementary knowledge and skills to the industry. For example, [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/chemistry-degree/”]chemists[/hen-ui-link] and [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/biology-degree/”]biologists[/hen-ui-link] must understand key concepts necessary for biocomputing.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many computer science jobs don’t require a master’s degree, though. A graduate certificate, bootcamp experience, or even evidence of self-taught mastery of the field can be sufficient for some entry-level positions. However, you need a master’s degree to pursue a career in technology leadership or computer-related research science.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science master’s degree-holders can also qualify for jobs like those listed below, with May 2024 median salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]8 Popular Careers and Salaries for Master’s in CS Graduates[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Master’s in Computer Science Careers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Ideal Specialization[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer and Information Research Scientists[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Master’s in Computer Science Careers”]Computer Science Generalist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Specialization”]$140,910[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer and Information Systems Managers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Master’s in Computer Science Careers”]Computer Science Generalis[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Specialization”]$171,200[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Programmers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Master’s in Computer Science Careers”]Computer Programming[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Specialization”]$98,670[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Systems Analysts[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Master’s in Computer Science Careers”]Computer and Information Technology[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Specialization”]$103,790[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Network Architects[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Master’s in Computer Science Careers”]Computer Networks[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Specialization”]$130,390[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Database Administrators and Architects[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Master’s in Computer Science Careers”]Data Science[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Specialization”]$104,620[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Information Security Analysts[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Master’s in Computer Science Careers”]Cybersecurity[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Specialization”]$124,910[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Software Developers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Master’s in Computer Science Careers”]Software Development or Computer Engineering[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Specialization”]$133,080[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Computer Science Programs Without CS Undergrad Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is a master’s degree in computer science worth it?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s degree in computer science can help qualify you for some of today’s highest-paying and most competitive jobs. In 2024, the [hen-ui-link href=”https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/industry/000000″ target=”_blank”]BLS reported[/hen-ui-link] that computer occupations brought in an annual average salary of $116,770 and employed almost 4.8 million people. While a master’s degree does not guarantee a lucrative career, it can position you for a complex technical role or a leadership position in computer science.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Do I need a master’s degree to get a job in computer science?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]No, you do not need a master’s degree to get a job in computer science. Most CS careers only require a bachelor’s degree, and many accept applicants with non-academic professional training, such as completing a technology bootcamp. However, research-specific careers, postsecondary teaching, and some technology executive positions demand a master’s degree or higher.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How much can I make with a master’s in computer science?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In 2024, the BLS reported that computer occupations brought in an annual median wage of $105,990. For CS professionals with a master’s degree, this figure could go much higher. For example, the [hen-ui-link href=”https://naceweb.org/job-market/graduate-outcomes/first-destination/class-of-2023/interactive-dashboard” target=”_blank”]National Association of Colleges and Employers[/hen-ui-link] reports an average starting salary of $118,280 for graduates with master’s degrees in computer science.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How difficult is a computer science degree?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science is a complex and rapidly changing field that demands a deep understanding of algorithms, programming languages, artificial intelligence, and human-computer interaction. Still, thousands of people earn computer science degrees every year — it is certainly possible to excel in this demanding field with preparation and discipline.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is computer science an engineering degree?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science is its own field and not a subcategory of engineering. However, it can require engineering skills, such as the architectural knowledge needed when designing databases. Some CS students major in software engineering, which draws coursework from computer science and engineering fields.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,905,1286″][/hen-ui-article-row]