Overview

The CS MS is a very small, highly selective, four-semester program for students who wish to deepen their knowledge of computer science through advanced coursework, research, writing, and teaching. The program is ideal for self-motivated students who have expository skills, enjoy the research environment, and like working with undergraduates in introductory courses. Students in the program serve as teaching assistants and receive full tuition plus a stipend.

Summary of Degree Requirements

At least thirty-four credit hours of work is required. Six to twelve credit hours must be associated with thesis research (CS 7999). The remainder of the credit-hour requirement is fulfilled by taking between six and eight graduate-level courses. At least four of these courses must be CS courses at the 5000-level (or higher) and at least one of these must be at the 6000-level. An outside minor is required and that typically involves two or three graduate-level courses. A written thesis and oral presentation are also required.

Financial Support

Students who are admitted into the program serve as full time teaching assistants (TA’s) during each of the four semesters. This involves a fifteen-hour commitment to TA duties each week. In exchange, the student receives full tuition, a stipend to cover basic living expenses, and health insurance. Summer instructorships, TA-ships, and research assistantships are available but are not guaranteed. Serving as a TA is an integral part of the program. To remain in good standing in the program, students have to be among the top TAs in their assigned courses. TA performance is evaluated at the end of each semester.

If you have questions regarding the MS in CS, please first check our FAQ. If you do not find the information you are looking for, feel free to send e-mail to the general information e-mail address cs-ms@cornell.edu

Students wishing to earn a Ph.D. should apply directly to the Ph.D. program.

All application material must be submitted through the graduate school's online application system.

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