Deep Dive: Exploring the Online MSCS Program Concentrations

A graduate degree in computer science makes possible a range of opportunities across computing and information technology professions: the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts over 350,000 job openings annually in the field. Many of these positions require the kind of specialized knowledge and training one can acquire in a Master of Computer Science program.

Graduate-level academic concentrations provide an excellent opportunity to develop the advanced skills employers value. The online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program at University of Tennessee, Knoxville, offers three options: data mining and intelligent systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. This article explores each concentration option in depth to help you select the one that best aligns with your ambitions.

The UT Knoxville Online MSCS Program

Designed for working professionals, the 100 percent online UT Knoxville MSCS accommodates the busy lives of working professionals; students can customize the pace of study to suit their professional commitments and lifestyle. Students can complete the program in as few as 18 months; most take 24 months to earn their degree. The program combines asynchronous coursework with live online classes to provide maximum flexibility without compromising opportunities to connect with peers and faculty. 

The online MSCS curriculum delivers the foundational knowledge needed for a successful computer science career, with coursework in software engineering, algorithms, and machine learning. The degree program offers three industry-relevant concentrations that develop the specialized skills needed to qualify for the top computer science jobs. 

Data Mining and Intelligent Systems Concentration

The data mining and intelligent systems concentration explores the advanced methodologies, models, and tools behind high-performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI), enabling students to develop creative applications of automation and big data. These skills are increasingly in demand in industries such as healthcare, finance, and tech. 

Coursework covers data-driven decision-making, predictive modeling, and AI. Students also learn practical skills, such as programming in Python and R, advanced neural networks and natural language processing techniques using software like TensorFlow, and strategies for big data analytics.

Upon graduation, data mining and intelligent systems students can pursue various specialized job roles, including: 

• Data scientist: Data scientists use analytical tools and techniques to extract meaningful insights from data. According to the BLS, data scientists earn a median yearly income of $108,000; employment in this field is expected to grow by 36 percent over the next decade. 
• Machine learning engineer: Machine learning engineers design, build, and deploy machine learning models and systems to solve real-world problems, ensuring scalability, efficiency, and integration with existing technologies. These professionals earn an average salary of $111,500. 
• AI engineer: AI engineers design, develop, and deploy AI systems and applications by integrating machine learning algorithms, data processing pipelines, and scalable infrastructure to solve complex problems. AI engineers earn around $123,000 a year. 

Cybersecurity Concentration

The cybersecurity concentration focuses on how to prevent, detect, and respond to cybersecurity events. Students survey offensive and defensive cybersecurity strategies, including cyber risk assessment, penetration testing, and cryptographic techniques. They also learn to use industry-standard tools such as Wireshark, Metasploit, and cloud security frameworks. 

Cybersecurity specialists are in high demand, with a global shortage of over four million trained professionals. Cybersecurity experts are needed across industries but are critically important to finance, government, and tech companies. Potential job roles in this field for MSCS graduates include: 

• Cybersecurity analyst: Cybersecurity analysts use risk management and threat analysis skills to monitor and recommend security protocols for an organization’s computer networks and systems. According to the BLS, demand for information security analysts should grow by 33 percent over the next decade. These professionals earn a median annual income of $120,000. 
• Security engineer: Cybersecurity engineers implement measures to defend an organization’s network against threats. Cybersecurity engineers earn an average salary of $136,500. 
• Ethical hacker: Ethical hackers test organizations’ overall security by hacking into systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities. The average annual salary for ethical hackers is $112,000 a year. 

Software Engineering Concentration

The software engineering concentration examines the design, building, and maintenance of complex software systems to create innovative solutions to industry challenges. Coursework covers the technical and problem-solving skills necessary for front-end, back-end, and full-stack leadership roles. Students are immersed in advanced software architecture, agile methodologies, and version control systems like Git. They also utilize frameworks like React, Node.js, and microservices design.

Software engineering is a versatile field, with jobs available in nearly every industry. Roles MSCS graduates can consider include: 

• Software engineer: Software engineers create computer applications that allow users to perform specific tasks and the underlying systems that run the devices or control networks. According to the BLS, these professionals earn a median annual income of $132,000 a year. 
• Full-stack developer: Full-stack developers are software developers with expertise in front-end and back-end programming languages. They are employed to develop and maintain both client- and server-side software. Full-stack developers earn an average salary of $131,500. 
• Solutions architect: Solutions architects design hardware, software, or networking applications and services to solve organizational problems. Solutions architects earn an average salary of $126,000. 

How to Choose the Right Concentration 

Choosing the right concentration for your MSCS degree is critical to advancing your career. Ask yourself these questions to help determine the right path for you: 

• What type of problems do you enjoy solving: creative, analytical, or technical? 
• Are you more interested in building solutions and systems or analyzing data?
• What type of industry would you like to work in? 
• Are you more drawn to roles directly impacting users or those focused on back-end innovation?
• Are there specific technologies or trends you find fascinating, like AI, blockchain, or cloud computing?
• Do you have any existing skills or work experience that makes one concentration more suitable than another?

The online MSCS program at UT offers specialized, career-aligned concentrations in a flexible format, enabling you to gain a career-boosting credential without having to relocate or pause your professional progress. Don’t delay – take the first step toward your future career now. Visit the online MSCS program page for more details about the concentrations and application process, or connect with an enrollment advisor for guidance on choosing the best concentration option for your goals.