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Master of Computer Science Program

The department offers graduate study leading to the Master of Science degree in computer science. The areas in which courses are offered include software, systems, architecture, artificial intelligence, and computer science theory.

Master's level research projects are available in the following areas of computer science: distributed systems, multiprocessing, operating systems, graphics, neural networks, formal languages, numerical methods, robotics, signal processing, and computational complexity. Specialized laboratories exist for microprocessor architecture, graphics, and robotics and intelligent machines.

See Prospective Students for information about requirements for admission and how to apply to the program. The SDSU graduate bulletin contains the university wide requirements (PDF) for a master's degree and a description (PDF) of the computer science masters and complete department requirements.

Financial Aid

The department offers a very limited number of teaching assistantships. The application form (PDF) contains instructions for applying. Teaching assistants normally teach two lower division sections (6 units) per semester. SDSU has financial aid office and scholarship office that can provide some financial aid.

Course Requirements

Student must complete a minimum of 30 units of 500-, 600-, and 700-level courses selected with the approval of a graduate adviser. One to three units of Computer Science 798 may be added to the 30 minimum units required, when used for an internship or practical training. All programs must include at least 24 units chosen from computer science and mathematics.

Students must select Plan A (Thesis) or Plan B (Comprehensive Examinations) as described below. Selecting Plan A is contingent upon finding a full time computer science faculty member to supervise the thesis. The number of students that can be accommodated in Plan A is limited by faculty resources.

Plan A (Thesis)

A total of 30 units of 500/600/700-level courses as follows:

  1. At least 15 units from Computer Science 600 and 700 level courses excluding Computer Science 797, 798, 799A.
  2. Students select two areas of study from the areas listed below, and take at least two courses from each area.
  3. Three units of Thesis (799A), and an oral presentation and defense.

With approval of the graduate adviser, students may take Computer Science 798 as preparation for Computer Science 799A (Thesis).

Plan B (Comprehensive Examinations)

A total of 30 units of 500/600/700-level courses as follows:

  1. At least 18 units from Computer Science 600 and 700 level courses excluding Computer Science 797, 798, 799A.
  2. At least one course from each of the following areas of study: PFL, OSA, ALC, and one course from either ISR or DSW.
  3. Comprehensive examinations in three subjects selected from

Full time international students on Plan B who have completed all their coursework must take at least two qualifying examinations per semester.

Areas of Study

The statements found on this page/site are for informational purposes only. While every effort is made to ensure that this information is up to date and accurate, official information can be found in the printed Bulletin of the Graduate Division. For more information see the graduate bulletin or contact a graduate advisor.

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