Overview of Graduate Programs

Graduate Programs

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) degree is a comprehensive, intensive program designed to give students a thorough foundation in the theory, methodology, and techniques of Computer Science. Computer Science also offers an interdisciplinary Master of Applied Mathematical Science (MAMS) degree, which combines required course work in CS, math, statistics, and management science with a wide variety of options including courses in other departments.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science (PhDCS) degree is an advanced, intensive program designed to take students to the frontier of knowledge in key areas of CS.

The Department

The Department of Computer Science, begun in 1984, has experienced consistent growth over the years. The department currently has 23 faculty members with balanced strengths in both theory and practice. Advanced graduate work is available in many areas of computer science (see Research). The Undergraduate Program enrolls several hundred, while the three Graduate Programs enroll over 90 students. Financial aid possibilities for graduate students include over 25 Departmental Teaching Assistantships and numerous Departmental Research Assistantships as well as a few University-Wide Assistantships.

The University

In 1785, Georgia became the first state to charter a state university. The University of Georgia opened its doors in 1801 and is now the hub of a state-wide university system. UGA is one of the top research universities in the Southeast. It provides an excellent research infrastructure: a library with nearly 3 million holdings, a research division to help faculty with grants, and top flight colleagues in other departments. The Computer Science Department presently has ties with several departments: Genetics (Genome Mapping), AI Center (Knowledge Based Systems), Mathematics (Computational Number Theory), Chemistry (Molecular Modeling), Physics (Simulational Physics), Management (Model Management Systems (MMS)), and Geography (Geographical Information Systems (GIS)).

The City

The university is located in Athens, a city of about 100,000 with a relatively low cost of living. Athens is situated in the Piedmont, only a few hours drive from the Appalachian and Blue Ridge mountains and the Atlantic and the Gulf coastal plains. At 700 feet above sea level, the climate is relatively mild, with an average January low of 33 F and an average July high of 89 F. Excellent outdoor activities are available either in Athens or a short distance away. The city is known for its excellent art, music, and sports. Athens is 65 miles from Atlanta, providing easy access to all of its transportation, entertainment, and shopping facilities.