Top Universities in USA to Study MS in Computer Science

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Cyril Zachariah
Updated on Jun 01, 2023 07:06 PM IST

With globally renowned colleges and some of the best recruiters situated there, pursuing an MS in Computer Science degree in the United States may make a significant impact on a student's life. Computer Science job opportunities are predicted to grow by 15% between 2018 and 2028, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics. Hence, let us unveil the top universities in USA to study MS in Computer Science degree this year!

Top Universities for MS in Computer Science in USA

Top MS Universities in USA for Computer Science: MS in Computer Science degree in USA is one of the most sought-after courses among Indian students who wish to study abroad after completing their engineering or computer science degrees in India. While the choice is driven by a student's academic background and interest, an important aspect is the choice of country and the top MS universities in USA for Computer Science.

Students opting to study a Master's in Computer Science in USA will be given a choice to choose from various specialisations including information technology, artificial intelligence, ethical hacking, programming, augmented reality etc. The top MS colleges in USA for Computer Science are further popular for their flexible study hours, vivid specialisations, research-oriented curriculum and innovative international scholarships.

There are many top MS universities in USA to choose from; therefore, it often gets nerve-wracking to circle out the one that meets all your requirements. Keep reading to find out the most popular universities in USA for MS in CS including the New Jersey Institute of Technology, the University of Utah, and the University of Central Florida, among others, and choose the best one for you.

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MS in Computer Science in USA: An Overview 

The growth of information technology (IT) in the last decade has created more change in human civilization than the preceding century combined. It is also possible that the world may change faster in the next 10-15 years than it has in human history. Computer science professionals are in great demand in almost every business and country in the world. There are several reasons to study computer science at a US university, including professional opportunities, great earning potential, and the opportunity to make a difference in the world. As a result, it is not incorrect to state that an MS Computer Science degree will offer you the skills and knowledge required to enter an exciting and fast-expanding sector. Check out the programme highlights or overview depicted below to get a better understanding of the top MS universities in USA for Computer Science later in this article:

Particulars Details 

Name of the Course

MS in Computer Science

Course Duration

1-2 Years

Course Type

Full-Time

Eligibility

3.0 GPA (on a scale of 4.0 GPA)

Admission Tests GRE: 298-328
Language Proficiency Tests IELTS Academic: 6.5-7.5; TOEFL: 87-92

Fee Range (for full program)

USD 13,000 to USD 141,000 for 2 years
Top Scholarships Rotary Foundation Graduate Scholarship Program, National Overseas Scholarship, PEO International Peace Scholarship for Women

Popular Recruiting Companies

Google, Amazon, Facebook, Cognizant, Google, Cisco Systems Inc., Allen & Hamilton Group, and Booz among many others

Average Starting Salary (in USD)

USD 65,000 per annum

Top MS Colleges in USA for Computer Science MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Caltech, University of Chicago, Princeton, UPenn, Yale, Cornell. Columbia

Before unveiling the list of top universities in USA to study MS in Computer Science, let us first know more about why aspirants must study this degree in USA!

Wish to Study Computer Science at a Top MS University in USA?

Why Study MS in Computer Science in USA? 

Computer science is an enormously vast and vital area in everyday life, and it is getting more so by the day. Because of employment stability, beginning income, a diverse variety of career options, and the fact that it is demanding—with unlimited potential for growth and creativity—the field is popular among international students in the United States.

MS in Computer Science in the USA gives further knowledge about the principles of computing and algorithms as the foundation for storing and operating information. Studying for this degree is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to get an in-depth understanding of cutting-edge computer science at leading US universities. Specialisations in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cyber Security, and Management Information Systems are also available at US universities. The following is a list of the most compelling reasons to study MS in Computer Science in the USA.

Promising Post-Degree Work Prospects: One important reason why the United States is a favourite destination for MS students is that you will have access to the greatest post-graduate job prospects. You will have the opportunity to attend workshops and events that will help you locate the greatest chances in your chosen area while completing your MS Computer Science at top US universities. Competent individuals graduating from US institutions are easily placed in reputable firms by the university. Many MS programmes also provide students with a period of visa validity during which they can hunt for work. Most students find well-paying employment quickly and may recoup their college costs in 3 to 4 years.

Creativity and Innovation Possibilities: Degrees in computer science cover more than just programming. It all comes down to coming up with new ideas. When you obtain a Computer Science degree, you are only limited by your ideas.

It is Required for a Well-Rounded Education: A background in computer science can establish a strong foundation of computer knowledge, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Even if you decide to change jobs, a degree of MS in Computer Science engineering will provide you with an advantage.

Excellent Research Possibilities: Since many MS Computer Science programmes require students to produce a thesis, students have the opportunity to do an in-depth study on their topic of interest. This study is supported not just by excellent infrastructure, but also by graduate students' access to resources, space, and time. In addition, students can help instructors with various research projects to enhance their knowledge and skill set.

Best Networking Potential: When discussing the United States for MS in Computer Science, we cannot overlook the networking opportunities provided by these colleges. For a variety of reasons, it is simple for students in US institutions to build and maintain a professional network. Many colleges offer an alumni network that includes students from various years. At events and conferences, students have several opportunities to connect with them. This allows students to make long-term professional contacts that will help them develop in their careers.

Academic Standards that are Well-Established and Recognised: The United States' academic leadership is fueled by its developing study system, which draws over 30% of students who study abroad each year. At the Master's level, acquiring subject matter knowledge is critical. The USA is a potential alternative because to its excellent faculties, which ensure well-rounded growth via academic and practical exposure. Universities in the US are noted for hiring famous faculty and emphasising experiential learning, which involves applying academic knowledge to real-world circumstances.

Summer Internships: Studying MS in Computer Science in USA also offers work authorization through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to pursue summer internships. Through these internships, you get the opportunity to network with American tech employers and work in the largest of all - the US tech sector. Many find opportunities at top companies like Schlumberger, Microsoft, Dell, Intel, Amazon, LinkedIn, Tableau, etc.

Top MS in Computer Science Universities in USA

The study of how people interact with information and how we utilise computers in our daily lives is known as computer science. Having said that, studying at one of the most influential study abroad destinations in the world, with globally renowned universities and some of the best recruiters based there, may make a significant impact on a student's life. According to QS World University Rankings (2023), the following are the leading colleges in the USA that offer the MS in Computer Science degree to aspirants:

Name of the University

QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023: Computer Science and Information Systems

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

1

Carnegie Mellon University

2

Stanford University

3

University of California - Berkeley Campus

4

Harvard University

8

Princeton University

13

University of Washington

14

Cornell University

17

University of California, Los Angeles

18

New York University

19

Columbia University

23

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

25

New York University (NYU)

26

Georgia Institute of Technology

28

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

=39

University of Texas at Austin

=36

Yale University

=36

University of Pennsylvania

43

University of California San Diego

=44

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

=44

University of Chicago

52

University of Southern California

55

University of Maryland, College Park

59

Purdue University

68

Johns Hopkins University

72

Note: The universities listed above are subject to change at the discretion of the institution ranking them. Therefore, if you wish to learn more about the standard of education offered at each of the institutions providing an MS in CS in USA, as mentioned here, then register and connect with our team of study abroad counsellors.

The table above clearly depicts the list of top MS universities in USA for Computer Science for international students, taking into account multiple variables such as research quality, faculty, campus, career advancement, and Return on Investment (ROI). 

Eligibility Criteria for Studying MS in Computer Science in USA

The eligibility criteria at top MS universities in USA for Computer Science differ from university to university. Some MS universities in USA may consider the common entrance exams like the GRE as the deciding factor to enrol students in the course, while, others may simply use the academic transcripts, LORs, English test scores, SOPs and other documents to enrol eligible applicants. The detailed eligibility criteria for Indian and international students are as follows.

  • The aspirant must have a valid and recognised bachelor's degree in computer science or a relevant technical field.

  • The minimum aggregate in the qualifying exam for the bachelor's degree must be at least a 3.0 GPA on a scale of 4.0 GPA. (It is equivalent to B Grade and the per cent is equivalent to 83-86%).

  • Some universities in the USA that are offering an MS in CS consider a Valid GRE score a vital criterion for admission to the course. The average GRE score needed for US universities should be at least 292-328.

  • Students must have a decent score in one of the accepted English Language Proficiency Tests such as TOEFL and IELTS to enrol at the top MS colleges in USA for Computer Science as international students.

Get FREE Guidance to Study MS in Computer Science in the US!

Application Process for MS in Computer Science in USA

Planning to apply at the top MS universities in USA for Computer Science? Find out what the application process to study MS in Computer Science in the USA entails and the documents you will need to submit to successfully apply to your desired university. Applicants need to:

  • Learn everything about the university, check its intakes for international students and make note of their application deadlines.

  • Appear for the required tests such as the GRE, IELTS, TOEFL or PTE Academic or any other tests as specified by your desired university in the USA.

  • Visit the university website to apply or get in touch with their admissions office for assistance.

  • Submit the following documents:

  • Wait for the admission offer and once you have the offer and you have accepted the same, you can apply for a US Student Visa.

Note: When applying for the course, it should be noted that at the top MS colleges in USA for Computer Science, applicants will be given a list of documents that they need to submit and directed to complete the application process. The application process at each university will be unique, therefore, read the admission requirements and processes before applying.

Application Deadlines at US Universities for MS in Computer Science

The application deadlines for admission to the top MS universities in USA for studying this prestigious course or degree have been outlined in the following table:

University Name

Estimated Application Deadline

University of Pennsylvania

First week of May

Yale University

Fall: First week of June

Spring: First week of October

Summer: First week of March

Boston University

First week of September

University of Southern California

Spring: Mid-September

Fall: Mid-January

Columbia University

First week of November

Harvard University

First week of December

University of California, Los Angeles

First week of December

Stanford University

First week of December

University of California, Berkeley

First week of December

Carnegie Mellon University

First week of December

Princeton University

Mid-December

University of Washington

Mid-December

University of Illinois- Urban Campaign

Mid-December

University of Texas

Mid-December

University of California, San Diago

Mid-December

Note: The application deadline at each of the universities in USA for MS in Computer Science will be defined individually for each academic year. Therefore, when applying, be sure to check the application deadlines before submitting your applications. Or, register and connect with our study abroad experts to apply to your dream MS University in USA for CS.

Cost of Studying MS in Computer Science in USA

The table outlined below depicts the average cost of studying (tuition fees) at the top MS colleges in USA for Computer Science for international students and aspirants 

University

Average Estimated Cost (in USD)

Columbia University

60,540

University of California, Los Angeles

64,908

Stanford University

69,674

New York University

98,208

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

109,864

University of Pennsylvania

113,572

Harvard University

117,460

Cornell University

117,172

Princeton University

120,080

Yale University

141,000

Apart from the tuition fees, there are other expenses that international students have to bear to enrol at one of the top MS universities in USA. These costs include visa, travel expenses, entrance examination fees, accommodation costs, and other personal expenditures. A list of estimated extra expenses to study in USA has been provided below:

Name of the Expenses

Approx Cost (in USD)

Visa Application Charges

510

English Language Proficiency Test

49-240

GRE Examination

190

SEVIS Charges

180-200

Travel Expenses

500-1000

Accommodation

600-1000

Health Insurance

450-700

Personal Expenditure

200-700

Scholarships for Studying MS in Computer Science in USA

Enrolling at top MS universities in USA for Computer Science for Indian students can be quite expensive. The cost of living combined with the education fee can cost a fortune. However, understanding the plight of international students, several universities in the USA provide plenty of opportunities for international students to avail of scholarships in the US. Listed below are some of the scholarships for international students:

Scholarship Name

Eligibility Criteria

Fee Waiver

Rotary Foundation Graduate Scholarship Program

Students hailing from countries with lower income

USD 30,000

National Overseas Scholarship

Students who have a minimum aggregate of 45% in Bachelor's and are willing to pursue a doctorate or Master's programme

Covers medical insurance, tuition fees, travel and other miscellaneous expenses

PEO International Peace Scholarship for Women

Aspirants must be international women candidates

USD 12,500

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

Candidates hailing from eligible countries such as India with at least 5 years of work experience in their professional field

Covers travel expenses, tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance and computer subsidy

Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Excellent academic record and genuine financial need Tuition fees and living expenses
Generation Google Scholarship Strong academic record USD 10,000
Civil Society Leadership Award Good academic record Tuition fees, living expenses and a monthly stipend are covered

Note: Aspirants must note that extracurricular activities and achievements play a pivotal role while deciding the scholarship as much as scores in the entrance exam.

Part-Time Jobs in USA after MS in Computer Science

It is not easy to get a scholarship in the USA. However, the good news is that a scholarship is not the only option for an aspirant to finance their living or studies in the USA. They can also find dozens of part-time job opportunities in the US to make money and pay for their expenses. Check out a few of them described below.

  • Teaching Assistant: An applicant can extract around 500-600 USD a week from this job.

  • Library Monitor: A candidate can make an average figure of 400 USD a week.

  • Tour Guide: In the initial days, aspirants can earn 300-350 USD per week.

  • Peer Tutor: An average pay of 450 USD a week can be extracted as a peer tutor.

  • Internship: Plenty of paid internship opportunities are available in the desired or relevant fields. Candidates can apply for the same and can extract a decent amount of money to cover their expenses.

Job Options in USA for MS in Computer Science Graduates

After the completion of your degree from one of the top MS universities in USA, an individual can either go for further education such as a PhD in Computer Science or start working. For those looking for job options in USA after MS in Computer Science, then check out the popular job roles in USA for international students given in the table below:

Job Profile

Average Annual Pay (In USD)

Artificial Intelligence Specialist

91,000

Computer Network Architect

90,000

Android Developer

75,200

Ethical Hacker

75,000

Blockchain Developer

75,000

ERP Project Manager

117,000

C++ Developer

88,200

Lead Developer

91,500

Information Security Manager

111,000

Network Engineer

85,000

The top MS universities in USA for Computer Science provide high-quality education and subsequently, lead to successful career opportunities for graduates. The average cost of studying MS in CS in the USA can range from USD 96,480 USD per year to USD 111,756 per year. The cost of living varies from university to university and lifestyle to lifestyle. Therefore, when selecting a university in the USA for this course, it is important to set your requirements and select the best ones from the available options.

Post Study Work Visa for International Students to Work in USA 

There are three types of student visas for studying in one of the top MS universities in USA for Computer Science: F1 Visa, M1 Visa, and J1 Visa, which allow students to stay in the United States for a certain period after finishing their studies. International students require an F1 visa to obtain temporary employment in their field of study. They can stay in the United States for a year after acquiring the F1 visa and finishing their degree. An F1 visa holder may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows international students to stay and work in the USA.

There are two types of OPT:

  • Pre-Completion OPT: This programme allows international students to work while they study.

  • Post-Completion OPT: Enables international students to work after they finish their degree programmes.

It is required that your first employment following graduation be relevant to your subject of study. International students are given 90 days following graduation to pursue work opportunities in the USA.

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Who Can Apply for OPT Extension?

After completing their studies, F1 visa holders can apply for an OPT extension. The only requirement is that students apply within one year following graduation. Students seeking an OPT Extension must know the following:

  • While applying for an OPT Extension, the student must have a degree in STEM courses from a university that is accredited by the US Department of Education and permitted by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

  • Students who have completed STEM courses, i.e., science, technology, engineering, and maths, can extend their stay in the United States for an additional two years, for three years.

Students must note that if an F1 visa holder from a non-STEM degree programme wants to extend their OPT after graduation, they can use their previous degree from a US university to petition for an OPT extension. Both graduation and previous degrees must have come from SEVP-certified institutions. Students asking for an OPT extension should not have an OPT extension from a previous degree. The career opportunity must also be relevant to the topic of study.

Related Articles:

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What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?

Computer Science is an evolving career option, with the world quickly becoming more and more technologically dependent. Therefore, choosing the right universities in the USA for Indian students seems to be a step toward a bright future. An investment made in this field has a huge potential of returning twice over your investment.

Get in touch with our team of study abroad experts by writing to us at abroad@collegedekho.com to clarify admission-related queries or avail of our counselling services to live your dream of studying in one of the top MS colleges in USA for Computer Science.

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FAQs

What scholarships can I apply for to study MS in Computer Science in the USA?

Some of the popular scholarships that international students can apply for when submitting their application for MS in Computer Science in USA include Rotary Foundation Graduate Scholarships, National Overseas Scholarships, PEO International Peace Scholarship for Women, Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship, Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships and many more. It should be noted that most US universities will offer Indian students a variety of scholarships to apply from.

How much does it cost to study at top universities for MS in Computer Science in USA?

To study at the top MS universities in Computer Science in USA, international students may be asked to pay anywhere between USD 60,000-150,000 for the entire programme. However, there are additional costs that international students can incur while studying abroad. It should be noted that the total cost of studying MS in CS in USA, will vary between courses and universities and your preferred lifestyle.

What is the application deadline for top MS universities in USA for Computer Science?

The application deadlines for studying MS in CS in USA will be individually defined by the universities offering the course. Moreover, the application deadlines will further be dictated by the admission intake you choose to enrol in one of the top MS colleges in USA for Computer Science. Nevertheless, the application deadlines for this course or degree at US universities usually date around the month of December.

What documents are needed for MS in CS in the USA?

When applying for MS in CS in the USA, international applicants will be required to submit documents such as official academic transcripts of the bachelor’s degree, score reports of the required tests such as GRE, IELTS, TOEFL, etc, LORs and SOPs, work experience certificates and receipt of the payment of application fee. Each university in USA will define the documents that you need to submit.

What is the eligibility criteria for MS in CS in USA?

To study an MS in USA at one of the top universities in the country, candidates must first ensure they possess a recognised bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or an equivalent degree, a minimum of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 in the previous academic programme, a valid GRE score ranging between 292-328, along with valid English proficiency test scores in tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, etc.

Is GRE necessary for MS in CS in USA?

Ever since the pandemic, many top universities in USA have resorted to either being test-optional universities or have completely removed the requirement for GRE test scores. However, when applying for an MS in CS programme, it is always beneficial to present valid GRE scores, as some of the top MS universities in USA for Computer Science may give you additional points over other applicants when considering the applications.

Will I get a job after the completion of my MS in CS degree in USA?

The chances of international students getting a job opportunity after graduating from one of the top MS universities in USA for Computer Science are extremely good. Several hundred organisations, multinational companies, and federal and state governments are continuously looking for skilled and qualified CS professionals. However, these changes will be heavily impacted by your performance in the programme and the skills you bring to the table.

Why MS in CS in USA is a good option?

Several study-abroad experts suggest pursuing an MS in CS from one of the top MS universities in USA because of the globally-ranking universities, diverse disciplines, real-life experiences, summer internships, high demand for highly qualified CS graduates and immense opportunities after graduation. Being one of the top study-abroad destinations in the world, studying MS in Computer Science in the USA will be one of the most beneficial options for international students.

What is the general duration of the MS in Computer Science programme in the USA?

Those interested in pursuing an MS in CS course in the USA will be required to spend anywhere between 1.5-2 years of academic practice. Depending on the MS universities in USA for Computer Science, students must prepare to spend at least 2 years in the country, completing the course.

What are the top MS universities in USA for Computer Science?

The top MS colleges in USA for Computer Science include Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, University of California Berkeley, Harvard University, Princeton University, University of Washington, University of California - Los Angeles, Columbia University and Cornell University. These universities have been listed as the top in the field by QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022.

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