Overview

The M.S. degree in Computer Science is intended as a terminal professional degree and does not lead to the Ph.D. degree. Most students planning to obtain the Ph.D. degree should apply directly for admission to the Ph.D. program. Some students, however, may wish to complete the master’s program before deciding whether to pursue the Ph.D. To give such students a greater opportunity to become familiar with research, the department has a program leading to a master’s degree with distinction in research. 

How Much It Will Cost

How Long It Will Take

To earn the Master of Science in Computer Science Degree, you must complete 45 units.

• As a part-time student, you can expect to finish the degree in 3 to 5 years.
• As a full-time student, you can expect to finish the degree in 1 to 2 years.

What You Need to Get Started

For admissions information, please visit the department's site or contact admissions@cs.stanford.edu.

For degree requirements, please review either the department’s Guide to the MSCS Program Sheet or Stanford Bulletin. See the department's FAQs page.

For more about the policies, procedures, and logistics, please review our website.

While this degree can be completed online, it depends on your program plan and area of focus. Most courses in the Computer Science department are offered only on campus. Specific online course offerings depend heavily on your program plan, area of focus, and the online course offerings for any given academic quarter.

What You'll Earn

Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) from Stanford University.