The United States of America (USA) is a popular technological hub and a preferred study abroad destination for students to pursue courses related to Computer Science. As per the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 2024, 5 out of the top 10 universities offering courses in Computer Science and Information Systems are in the US. So, if you are planning to pursue a Master of Science (MS/MSc) in Computer Science (CS) from the US, here’s what you must know.

Key highlights:

• Reasons to pursue Masters in CS in the USA
• MS in Computer Science in the USA: A course overview
• Top universities in the USA for MS in Computer Science
• Other popular US universities for Masters in Computer Science
• Masters in CS in the USA: eligibility criteria
• Cost of studying Master of Science in Computer Science in the USA
• Masters in Computer Science in the USA: Job prospects

Reasons to pursue Masters in CS in the USA

• The USA is home to some of the top-ranked universities that adopt practical learning approaches so that students get a better understanding of fundamental principles and concepts.

  Also Read: Everything About the USA Study Visa Interview Questions

• Academic institutions give an excellent opportunity for students to conduct advanced research in their preferred areas of specialisation. Moreover, aspirants can access internships at some of the best tech firms.
• As per the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, the jobs related to Computer and Information Technology are expected to create 3,77,500 job openings, on average, every year from 2022 to 2032. Therefore, you can explore a range of rewarding career opportunities in some of the leading US-based technology companies, such as Amazon, Dell, Google, Apple, etc.

MS in Computer Science in the USA: A course overview

In the US, MS in Computer Science is a 1-2 year post-graduate program that offers advanced knowledge in the field of Computer Science. It also prepares students to solve real-world problems by applying algorithmic principles. Computer Language Theory, Operating Systems, Database Security, Computer Networks, Network Security, etc., are some important subjects covered during the course. Apart from providing technical knowledge, the course also strengthens students’ communication and leadership skills. After completing the program, MS in CS graduates can either look for jobs or further advance their knowledge by enrolling in a PhD program.

Some of the popular specialisations US universities offer in this domain are as follows:

Artificial Intelligence	Information Technology	Human-Computer Interaction
Cloud Computing	Computer Graphics	Data Management Systems
Robotics	Machine Learning	Cyber Security

Also Read: Best US Universities for MBA

Top universities in the USA for MS in Computer Science

Here’s a list of US-specific rankings with their QS and Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2024:

• QS World University Rankings 2023 category - Subject: Computer Science & Information Systems
• THE World University Rankings 2024 category - Subject: Computer Science

Sr. No.	Name of the university	QS Rankings	THE Rankings
1	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	1	2
2	Carnegie Mellon University	2	3
3	Stanford University	3	1
4	University of California, Berkeley (UCB)	4	6
5	Harvard University	5	4
6	Princeton University	6	5
7	Cornell University	7	8
8	University of Washington	8	9
9	University of California, Los Angeles	9	11
10	Columbia University	10	14

Other popular US universities for masters in Computer Science

• Johns Hopkins University
• Georgia Institute of Technology
• The University of Texas at Austin
• University of Florida
• Northeastern University
• Arizona State University

Also Read: Top 5 US Cities for Study Abroad Students

Masters in the CS in the USA: Eligibility criteria

• A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field from a recognised university
• Academic transcripts (degrees and certificates)
• Any of the English proficiency tests:
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS )
• Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)/Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Resume
• Work experience (not mandatory)

Cost of studying Master of Science in Computer Science in the USA

The tuition fees will vary from one US college to another. Similarly, the cost of living also varies from one city to another. Generally, the annual tuition fees for MS in CS will be around ∼INR 18,00,000 to ∼INR 25,00,000. The annual cost of living may come around ∼INR 5,00,000 to ∼INR 15,00,000.

Also Read: Expert Tips To Crack GMAT For MBA In USA

Masters in Computer Science in the USA: Job prospects

The popular recruiters who hire CS graduates are Oracle, Morgan Stanley, Nissan, Facebook, Bloomberg, SAP, Intel, etc. Some of the job profiles that these graduates can explore are:

• Software Engineer
• Information Security Engineer
• Network Engineer
• Blockchain Developer
• Data Engineer
• IT Manager

So, if you are planning to enrol in an MS in Computer Science degree program and are willing to finance your higher education independently, you can opt for an education loan for abroad studies. At Avanse Financial Services, we offer customised education loans with multiple benefits. Contact us today to know about education loans, how to use an educational loan EMI calculator and more.