M.S. in Computer Science & Systems

All MSCSS applicants must:

• Provide evidence of the successful completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with at least a 3.0 GPA.
• Demonstrate successful completion of preparatory coursework prior to their formal application to the master's program.
• Provide official GRE exam results from the last five years. Request that ETS send your scores directly to the University of Washington at code 4854.

International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency by either:

• A degree from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. or another nation where English is the main language, such U.K. or Australia
• A minimum score of 92 on the TOEFLiBT

All students admitted to the master's program are expected to have competency in the following areas:

• Object-Oriented Programming (equivalent to TCSS 142, TCSS 143 and TCSS 305)
• Discrete Mathematics (equivalent to TCSS 321)
• Data Structures (equivalent to TCSS 342)
• Algorithms (equivalent to TCSS 343)
• Program Management/Software Engineering (equivalent to TCSS 360)
• Computer Organization (equivalent to TCSS 371)
• Computer Architecture (equivalent to TCSS 372)
• Calculus
• Science (Physics preferred)

For applicants who met the February 17th deadline or otherwise received confirmation from their Academic Advisor that their applications would be considered for this round, we hope to have admission decisions released by mid-May. 

For applicants who met the February 17th deadline or otherwise received confirmation from their Academic Advisor that their applicants would be considered for this round, we hope to have admission decisions released by mid-May. 

Applications are accepted through the UW Graduate School. The process includes:

• Creating or updating your graduate applicant profile (one profile for all program applications)
• Making sure required documents have been submitted
• Paying the application fee

For more details, see SET Graduate Program Application Process.

Find current tuition information on the UW Tacoma's Office of the Registrar site, under Tier III. Note that costs are different for Washington State Resident and Non-Resident, as shown in the tuition tables.

Most applicable fees are included in the listed tuition rate, but some courses will require additional fees.

MSCSS students can choose one of three pathways to complete their degree:

• A Master's Thesis

• Capstone Project

• Electives Only

Master's Thesis

If you are interested in theory and research and are considering continuing on to a Ph.D. program, you are encouraged to choose this option. A thesis investigates an important research question and provides an in-depth background to the problem being addressed. It also points to approaches to solving the problem. A thesis is excellent preparation for pursuit of a doctorate degree. You are required to present your results in a public colloquium.

Capstone Project

A capstone experience is a valuable part of advanced work in computer science. In a supportive environment, you work with faculty on innovative research programs.

With the help of a faculty adviser, you define, develop and implement a real-world project. When projects involve significant research, you are encouraged to write a publishable paper covering your work. You are required to present your results in a public colloquium.

You can review some of the Graduate Student Research already completed in the MSCSS program.

Electives Only

The electives only pathway allows more flexibility in course scheduling and broader exploration of CS subjects. Students choose six elective courses in addition to the compulsory subjects taken by all MS students.

Education Objectives

MSCSS graduates will:

• Have the necessary skills and knowledge to independently conduct investigative work in selected sub-areas of computing/technology;
• Have a broad understanding of the technologies and theories supporting the architecture and construction of software systems;
• Be able to pursue successful careers or subsequent postgraduate studies while adapting to emerging technologies;
• Be able to analyze issues and synthesize solutions to computing-related problems;
• Be able to use their communication skills while working in team environments.

Learning Outcomes

MSCSS students are able to:

• Apply knowledge of theoretical foundations in computer science
• Use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice
• Analyze a problem, to assess and articulate its requirements, to design, to implement, and to evaluate a computer-based system
• Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms
• Participate effectively in team projects
• Recognize the need for and an ability to engage in self-directed learning and continuing professional development