Computer Science (Accelerated BS to MS) MS

Overview

The School of Computing Sciences and Computer Engineering offers an accelerated BS to MS track that enables high-achieving undergraduate students from the School’s Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Information Technology programs to finish their Computer Science MS more quickly by taking specific graduate courses during the senior year of their BS. This master’s program is designed to provide a fundamental understanding of theoretical and applied computer science that will allow the student to begin exploring special topics and state-of-the-art subjects. It will prepare a student for advanced applications, development,
and research positions in industry or for doctoral-level studies.

Campus: Hattiesburg, Gulf Coast

Admission Requirements

USM undergraduates interested in the accelerated BS to MS track must submit a preliminary application to the department during (or after) the final semester of their Junior year, after the completion of CSC 306, CSC 307, MAT 168, MAT 340* (or CSC 300). They must also achieve and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5. If accepted, these students should complete CSC 413, 415, as well as CSC 510 and CSC 511 as out-of-career (graduate) courses in place of qualifying undergraduate electives, in their Senior year. After completion, these students must formally apply to the Graduate School for admission to this MS program, with the application
fee and a Statement of Purpose. 

Please see the Graduate School Admission Requirements and Procedures  for any other non-departmental requirements.

*Computer Engineering students are allowed to substitute CE 250 for MAT 340, although this is discouraged.

Program Requirements and Academic Policies

Students in this accelerated BS to MS track will need to complete a minimum of 27 hours of coursework including a thesis (CSC 698) or a capstone project (CSC 699), approved by a 3-member committee. The thesis must be approved by a 3-member committee. The chair of this committee must be from the School (one member may be from outside the School). No committee is required for the students with the CSC 699 project option.

See General Degree Requirements  and General Academic Information  for other requirements and policies.

Accelerated Track Course Requirements (27 hours)

• CSC 616-695 (at least 21 hrs)
  • CSC 691 can be taken for up to 6 hrs
  • CSC 695 can be taken for up to 6 hrs
• CSC 512-591 (at most 3 hrs)
• Thesis (6 hrs) or Project (3 hrs)