The demand for computer science professionals is accelerating as industries embrace artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and similar advanced technologies. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data projects 26 percent growth in the computer and information research scientist employment market, with faster-than-average growth across computer and information technology occupations.
A computer science master’s degree can open new career paths, positioning professionals to advance into higher-responsibility, higher-paying roles in fields like cybersecurity and AI. The University of Tennessee (UT), Knoxville’s Online Master of Science in Computer Science (Online MSCS) program enables recent graduates and seasoned professionals to earn an advanced degree without having to relocate or put their careers on hold.
This article outlines all the requirements for applying to the UT online MSCS program and explains how to start the application process.
Boost Your Skills: Enroll in UT’s Online MSCS Program
Earn an Advanced Degree Without Pausing Your Career
Understanding MSCS Prerequisites: What Do You Need to Apply?
Admission to the UT Online MSCS requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related discipline, with a GPA of 3.0 (3.3 for international students). To qualify for admission, applicants must have completed (with sufficient final grades) the prerequisite courses listed below.
Key Prerequisite Courses
Prospective online MSCS Online students must have completed the following courses before applying to the program:
- Two semesters of calculus (one can suffice if other criteria are met)
- Two semesters of college-level math
- Coursework and/or extensive professional experience in Python, C, and C++
- Systems programming coursework or experience (typically coursework in computer organization and operating systems)
- Data structures and algorithms coursework or experience
Completing these courses is essential to students’ success in the program, as they teach material necessary to understanding and engaging with the UT computer science master’s degree curriculum. If you are uncertain whether your undergraduate coursework satisfies the prerequisites, use the UT Transfer Course Search platform to help you determine course equivalencies.
International students can use third-party credential evaluation services like World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) to verify whether their undergraduate coursework meets U.S. educational standards and the Online MSCS program’s requirements.
International Student Requirements
In addition to the standard application materials, international students may also be required to submit English proficiency test scores if:
- Their primary language is not English, and
- Their primary language of instruction at their undergraduate institution was not English
The minimum score requirements for admission to the UT graduate programs are:
- A total score of 80 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT) or
- A 6.5 overall band score on the IELTS
- An overall score of 120 on the Duolingo English Test
International students may also be required to submit proof of degree equivalency from WES or ECE.
What If You Don’t Meet the Prerequisites?
If you don’t meet the program prerequisites, you may still be able to gain admission, especially if you have extensive professional experience in the field or have taken programming, data structures, algorithms, and discrete mathematics coursework at the collegiate level. Reach out to a UT enrollment advisor to discuss your background and confirm your eligibility. An enrollment advisor can also guide you in highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications in your application to improve your chances of gaining admission.
How to Get Started with Your Application
To apply to the online MSCS program, you must create a profile on the UT application portal and submit the following supporting documents:
- A personal statement (two to three pages)
- Transcripts from each institution attended, even if a degree was not conferred
- An updated resume
- An optional Statement of Purpose for additional context. If your GPA is below 3.0., submitting this statement is compulsory.
- Optional letters of recommendation
Applicants must also pay a $60 nonrefundable application fee.
Scheduling a personalized application walkthrough with an enrollment advisor before applying is highly recommended.
Take the Next Step: Connect with a UT Enrollment Advisor
The UT online MSCS program is designed to offer top-value education to recent graduates and experienced professionals alike. If you meet the admissions requirements and are ready to take the next step, connect with an enrollment advisor to receive tailored advice. An enrollment advisor can help you confirm your eligibility and guide you through the application process, including providing advice on compiling a robust application. Alternatively, if you’re ready to get started, create your application profile today.
