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Master of Science (MS) in Computer ScienceOverview of DegreeThe Master of Science degree in Computer Science at The University of Georgia is a comprehensive program of study intended to give qualified and motivated students a thorough foundation in the theory, methodology, and techniques of Computer Science. Students who successfully complete this program of study will have a grasp of the principles and foundations of Computer Science. They will be prepared to pursue higher academic goals, including the Doctor of Philosophy degree. They will obtain skills and experience in up-to-date approaches to analysis, design, implementation, validation, and documentation of computer software and hardware. With these skills they will be well qualified for technical, professional, or managerial positions in government, business, industry, and education. Prospective students are advised to consult The University of Georgia Graduate Bulletin for institutional information and requirements.Admission Requirements In addition to the general policies set forth in the Graduate Bulletin, the following departmental policies apply to all applicants: 1. A baccalaureate degree is required, preferably with a major in Computer Science or an allied discipline. Students with insufficient background in Computer Science must take undergraduate Computer Science courses to remedy any deficiencies (in addition to their graduate program). A sufficient background in Computer Science must include at least the following courses (or equivalent):
2. Admission to this program is selective; students with a record of academic excellence have a better chance of acceptance. Students with exceptionally strong undergraduate records may apply for admission to the graduate program prior to fulfilling all of the above requirements. 3. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores are required for admission consideration. The Subject Test in Computer Science must be taken before completing the M.S. degree. Though not required for admission, the Subject Test in Computer Science could strengthen an application for admission. 4. Three letters of recommendation are required, preferably written by university professors familiar with the student's academic work and potential. If the student has work experience, one letter may be from his/her supervisor. Letters should be sent directly from the letter writer or signed on the back of the envelope. 5. A one or two page personal statement outlining the student's background, achievements, and future goals is required. 6. A student may include a recent copy of their resume as part of the application packet; however, this is not required. Graduate School RequirementsAdditional requirements are specified by the Graduate School (application fee, general application forms, all transcripts, etc.). Please see the University of Georgia Bulletin for further information. Detailed admissions information may be found at Graduate School Admissions. Printed information may be obtained by contacting theOffice of Graduate AdmissionsApplications are processed on a year round basis. Students can be admitted for either semester (Fall or Spring). Please visit the Graduate School for application submission deadlines . Summary of Basic Degree RequirementsProgram of StudyThe program of study consists of at least 32 semester hours of resident graduate coursework. This includes
Core CurriculumAt least one course from each of the following three groups must be taken:
The core curriculum consists of a total of 12 semester hours. Core competency is certified by the student's advisory committee with the approval of the Graduate Coordinator. Advanced CourseworkStudents must take at least 16 hours of CSCI graduate student only coursework. This includes at least 12 hours at the 8000-level (i.e., at least 3 8000-level courses). Note: CSCI 8990 may not be used to fulfill this requirement. Elective Coursework
Research SeminarAll students must take 1 hour of CSCI 8990 Research Seminar, in which they must attend weekly meetings of a research seminar and give presentations. Presently, there are ongoing research seminars, such as the Theory Seminar (CATS) and the Systems Seminar (RATS). Seminars may be added, eliminated, or changed.Advisory CommitteeThe advisory committee will consist of one major professor and two additional members. At least two of the three members must be from the Computer Science Department. (See the Graduate Bulletin for additional details.)Master's ThesisThe thesis is a report of the student's investigations under the supervision of his/her major professor and requires the approval of the major professor and the advisory committee. The thesis must demonstrate competent style and organization, and communicate technical knowledge. The thesis often includes original research into some area of Computer Science. It must demonstrate mastery of a particular area of Computer Science. The candidate's advisory committee assures that the quality of the thesis meets the standards of the Department and the Graduate School. The candidate must register for CSCI 7300 Master's Thesis for at least 3 hours of credit while working on the thesis.
Non-Departmental RequirementsNon-departmental requirements are set forth by the Graduate School (see the Graduate Bulletin). They concern residence, time limits, programs of study, acceptance of transfer credits, admission to candidacy, minimum GPAs, thesis, and final examination.Graduation RequirementsA student admitted to the M.S. degree program will be advised by the graduate coordinator until a major professor is chosen. Before the end of the second semester in residence, a student must submit to the Graduate School, through the graduate coordinator, the following forms: (i) a Program of Study Form and (ii) an Advisory Committee Form. The Program of Study Form indicates how and when degree requirements will be met and must be formulated in consultation with the student's major professor. An Application for Graduation Form must also be submitted directly to the Graduate School.Thesis DefenseAfter all course work has been completed and the thesis has been approved by the student's major professor, the thesis is transmitted to the advisory committee at least two weeks before the thesis defense date. The thesis defense is an oral examination conducted by the student's advisory committee, and constitutes the second part of the master's final examination. All members of the advisory committee must be present at the defense. The advisory committee members including the major professor must vote on whether the student passed the defense and record their votes on the Approval Form for Master's Thesis, Defense, and Final Examination. To pass the exam, at least two of the three votes must be passing. |
