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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:

  • bioinformatics
  • data mining
  • digital libraries
  • high performance computing
  • networking
  • cyber security
  • 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.

Want to learn more? Contact us!











Female computer science major working at a desktop computer in a computer lab setting.

Learn from Experts

You'll have opportunities to conduct cutting-edge research with experienced faculty. Our computer science faculty have diverse research interests and are leaders in areas such as:

  • modeling and simulation
  • cloud computing
  • internet infrastructure and measurement
  • data-driven analytics
  • data science
  • computational biology
  • web science
  • social media
  • machine learning
  • mobile computing
  • and more.

Ranked #46 (tie)

Best Online Master's in Computer Information Technology, 2023
U.S. News & World Report

Required Courses

  • 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.

Online Learning Environment

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.

Calculating Cost

  • In-state Virginia Residents$571 per credit hour*
  • Out-of-state Students$595 per credit hour

Rates are effective Summer 2022 and subject to change.
* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

Top Job Titles

The most common job titles reported by our alumni are:

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

Careers in Computer Science

Earning a Master of Science degree in computer science online can help you advance in positions like the ones below.

Note: earning a degree from ODU does not guarantee employment in the positions listed above. Explore more career information on our Career Coach website.

Sound Interesting?Let’s Get Started

How 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.

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.

Meet Your Team

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.