Why ODU for a Computer Science master's program?

ODU's online master's program in computer science is for students with a strong background in computer science. Our computer science department supports in-depth study at the graduate level in areas such as:

  • data science and data mining
  • machine learning
  • bioinformatics
  • web science and digital libraries
  • high performance computing
  • cyber security
  • networking
  • software engineering
  • computational foundations

This online master's program in computer science features a flexible schedule beginning in fall, spring and summer. Taken full time, you can finish the 34-credit hour, non-thesis program in less than two years.

When you graduate, you will earn a Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science.

Courses in our cybersecurity graduate certificate program may count towards this master's program.

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If you are interested in pursuing an undergraduate degree, we can provide a free unofficial evaluation of your domestic transcript(s).





Conduct Cutting-Edge Research

Collaborate with our expert computer science faculty in areas such as modeling and simulation, cloud computing, internet infrastructure, data analytics, data science, computational biology, web science, social media, machine learning, mobile computing, and more. Join us and push the boundaries of innovation!

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Program Information

Minimum
31-34 Credit Hours

This program has three options:

  • Courses only: 34 credit hours minimum, including a 1-credit-hour colloquium. The final comprehensive exam includes a written report and an oral exam.
  • Project: 34 credit hours minimum, including a 1-credit-hour colloquium and 3-credit-hour Master's Project. The final comprehensive exam consists of a written project report and oral presentation of the results.
  • Thesis: 31 credit hours minimum, including a 1-credit-hour colloquium and 6-credit-hour Master's Thesis. The final comprehensive exam consists of an oral thesis defense and thesis document.

Explore Computer Science Courses in ODU's Graduate Catalog

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Minimum
31-34 Credit Hours

This program has three options:

  • Courses only: 34 credit hours minimum, including a 1-credit-hour colloquium. The final comprehensive exam includes a written report and an oral exam.
  • Project: 34 credit hours minimum, including a 1-credit-hour colloquium and 3-credit-hour Master's Project. The final comprehensive exam consists of a written project report and oral presentation of the results.
  • Thesis: 31 credit hours minimum, including a 1-credit-hour colloquium and 6-credit-hour Master's Thesis. The final comprehensive exam consists of an oral thesis defense and thesis document.

Explore Computer Science Courses in ODU's Graduate Catalog

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Top Job Titles

The most common job titles reported by our alumni are:

  • Software Engineer
  • Software Developer
  • Java Developer
  • Project Manager
  • Technical Lead

Cost & Aid

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Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$486 per credit hour*
Out-of-state Students
$649 per credit hour

Rates are effective Fall 2025 and subject to change.
* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

Explore ODUGlobal Cost & Aid
The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarship & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

Future Shapers Scholarship: This scholarship supports online undergraduate transfer students pursuing degrees in technology-based industries, fostering innovation and growth. Recipients are awarded $3,000 for the first semester of enrollment.

Learn more about the Future Shapers Scholarship

Careers in Computer Science

Computer and Information Systems Managers
Growth
17.4%
Median Salary
$169,510
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Growth
25.6%
Median Salary
$145,080
Computer Systems Analysts
Growth
10.7%
Median Salary
$103,800
Information Security Analysts
Growth
32.7%
Median Salary
$120,360
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Growth
11.8%
Median Salary
$101,800
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Growth
6.1%
Median Salary
$96,430

ODUGlobal Graduate Admissions Team

Elaine Ross, Assistant Director of Graduate and International Admissions

Contact us at globalgradadmit@odu.edu about admission requirements, deadlines, or anything else you need to know about the application process!

Angel Baker
Angel Baker
Applications Coordinator
globalgradadmit@odu.edu
Angela Schlender
Angela Schlender
Applications Coordinator
globalgradadmit@odu.edu

Ready to Apply?

To apply, you should have a strong background in computer science (C or C++ programming language, data structures, computer organization, operating systems, and theory). You also should have a good background in calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, and probability & statistics. Prerequisite courses may be required to make up for any missing background.

GRE is required but may be waived if you have industry experience. International students should have TOEFL scores of 550 (paper) or 79 (internet), or IELTS score of 6.5. See application details and deadlines at the department's web page.

Want to get started now?

You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into a specific degree program. 

Please contact us to discuss this option with an expert advisor.

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