Earn an Online Master of Science in Computer Science from LSU
Strengthen foundational and advanced computer science concepts used to solve complex computing problems.
Explore specialized areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, and high-performance computing.
Apply theory to practice through advanced coursework designed to mirror real-world computing challenges.
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Admissions
Whether you’re returning to school or advancing your career, our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.
Apply by
May 11, 2026
Classes begin
May 25, 2026
Admission Requirements
Applicants must be admitted by both the LSU Graduate School and the Division of Computer Science and Engineering. Admission will be considered on the following requirements:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited US institution or the equivalent from a foreign institution.
- A satisfactory grade point average (at least 3.0).
- GRE scores are optional.
- International students educated outside of the U.S. in a country or province where English is not the only official language must demonstrate proof of English proficiency - requirements can be found on The Graduate School website here.
- Acceptable TOEFL scores of at least 213 (computer-based test) or 79 (internet-based).
Additional information about LSU Graduate admission requirements are located here.
For those without a Computer Science background, these two courses need to be completed prior to being admitted to the Computer Science MS:
- Computer Science 201: Data Structures & Algorithms (Study.com)
- Computer Science 305: Operating Systems (Study.com)
Prior to enrollment in CSC 4890: Theory of Computation, students without a Computer Science background are strongly advised to complete Computer Science: Algorithms, Theory, and Machines (Coursera)
Prior to enrollment in CSC 4101: Programming Languages, student without a Computer Science background are strongly advised to complete Programming Languages, Part A (Coursera)
Proof of completion requirements for each of these courses above are listed below:
- Study.com
- Proof of completion is provided via a transcript.
- The preferred transcript format includes the percentage with a letter grade (e.g., “93%, A”).
- The minimum grade required for credit is a B.
- Coursera.org
- Proof of completion includes a certificate of completion, a badge, and a transcript available through Credly.
- The department will accept both the transcript and the certificate.
- The minimum grade required for credit is a B.
Flexible Schedule
Our program is built for busy adults with work and family commitments. Learn on your schedule with 24/7 access to course materials.
No required login times
Complete coursework when it works for you
Stay on track with weekly goals
Perfect for full-time workers and parents
Tuition
LSU programs offer competitive, flat-rate tuition with no out-of-state fees, making it easier to plan for the cost of your degree. You may also be able to save more by transferring eligible credits.
Tuition & Fees
- 36 credit hours
- Total credit hours per program
- $735
- Cost per credit hour
- $26,460
- Total cost with fees
The total cost above does not include transfer credit or financial aid. Cost per credit hour and fees are subject to change. Fee schedules may vary by program depending on course-specific fees for proctoring and/or books. Please contact a Student Success Coach for more information.
Credit for Prior Learning
The following certifications, if already earned by incoming students, would be eligible towards 3 credits for CSC 7510 Cloud and Enterprise System:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
*Credit for prior learning is never guaranteed so please check with your advisor.
Financial Aid Available
LSU offers several ways to help you pay for your degree including credit for prior learning (PLA), financial aid, and veteran education benefits. Learn More.
Academics
Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, pivot into tech, or accelerate your path into technical leadership, LSU’s online MS in Computer Science gives you the skills, credentials, and industry connections to thrive.
What Will I Learn?
LSU’s online MS in Computer Science is designed to prepare you for advanced roles in software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and beyond. The curriculum blends foundational computer science with specialized electives, allowing you to tailor your studies to your career goals.
Graduates will be able to:
- Master fundamental knowledge in computing and information technology and advanced knowledge in the specialization area:
- Students gain expertise in areas such as algorithms, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, equipping them with the technical foundation necessary for high-level problem-solving.
- Apply knowledge of computing and information technology in system design and implementation, and software design and programming:
- Emphasizes practical application skills by training students in system design, software development, and programming, ensuring they can build, optimize, and implement complex computing solutions in real-world settings.
- Communicate technical concepts effectively in professional settings:
- Additionally, the curriculum fosters strong communication and collaboration skills, enabling graduates to effectively convey technical concepts, engage in cross-functional teamwork, and lead projects in professional environments.
Why Choose This Program?
Unlike other MS programs in Computer Science, the LSU Master's program provides students with both foundational expertise and specialized knowledge through a flexible curriculum structure. This program stands out by offering direct instruction from world-renowned faculty who are active researchers and industry collaborators in fields like cybersecurity, AI, and high-performance computing.
Students choose this program because it combines:
- Core computer science expertise with specialized tracks in high-demand areas
- A curriculum designed for both recent graduates and working professionals seeking advancement
- Strong connections to industry partners and research institutions
- Flexibility to complete coursework remotely while maintaining academic rigor
- Access to LSU's cutting-edge computing facilities and research centers
- A supportive academic community with dedicated faculty mentorship
Courses
| Category | Prerequisites* | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
Required Core (3 credit hours) |
||
CSC 7900: Interdisciplinary Research Methods in Computing |
None |
3 |
| Required Core Courses (Choose 6 credit hours) | Prerequisites* | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
CSC 4890: Introduction to Theory of Computation |
CSC 2259 |
3 |
CSC 4101: Programming Languages |
CSC 3102 |
3 |
CSC 4103: Operating Systems |
CSC 3102 |
3 |
CSC 7300: Algorithms |
None |
3 |
| Electives (Choose 27 credit hours) | Prerequisites* | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
Specialization: Cloud Computing |
||
CSC 7333: Machine Learning |
CSC 4444 |
3 |
CSC 7510: Cloud and Enterprise Systems |
CSC 4103 |
3 |
CSC 7740: Big Data Systems & Application Development |
CSC 4103; CSC 4402 |
3 |
Specialization: Software Engineering |
||
CSC 7435: Secure DevOps Practices |
None |
3 |
CSC 7335: Empirical Software Engineering |
None |
3 |
CSC 7535: Agile Project Management |
None |
3 |
Specialization: Cybersecurity |
||
CSC 7562: Web Security & Penetration Testing |
None |
3 |
CSC 7462: Systems Security |
None |
3 |
CSC 7362: Fundamentals of Cybersecurity |
None |
3 |
Specialization: Artificial Intelligence |
||
CSC 7544: Reinforcement Learning and Robotics |
None |
3 |
CSC 7644: LLM App Development |
None |
3 |
CSC 7344: Foundational AI |
None |
3 |
Total Credit Hours |
36 |
Specializations are designed to offer a customized and flexible pathway to meet students’ career goals but will not appear on official transcripts.
Additional core courses may be taken as electives for students seeking to broaden their academic foundation.
*Prerequisites can be waived with permission of the course's instructor.
Testimonials
What sets our program apart is its foundation as a rigorous, core computer science curriculum, this is not a MOOC or a patchwork of online content. It’s a thoughtfully designed master’s program, developed by the Division of Computer Science and Engineering, with decades of experience in shaping leaders in computing. Our technical content is uncompromising, ensuring students build a strong foundation while gaining the flexibility to specialize, or innovate across, critical areas like AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering. With world-class faculty, a globally respected reputation, and a focus on real-world application, our program prepares students not just to graduate, but to lead in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Careers
Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 20 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.
The median annual wage for computer and information research scientists was $140,910 in May 2024. (Source: BLS)
Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, pivot into tech, or accelerate your path into technical leadership, LSU’s online MS in Computer Science gives you the skills, credentials, and industry connections to thrive.
Career Opportunities
- Software engineers and developers
- Systems engineers
- Data scientist
- Data engineers
- Solutions architects
- Computer and information systems managers
- Computer systems analysts
- Computer user support specialists
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cloud Solutions Architect
- Systems Analyst
Those specializing in artificial intelligence, big data, or robotics may pursue roles like AI Engineer, Computer Vision Engineer, or Robotics Software Developer.
Professionals with a focus on high-performance computing and scientific computation can secure positions as HPC Engineers or Computational Scientists.
Those interested in leadership, career paths include IT Manager, Technical Lead, or Chief Technology Officer (CTO).
Industry Certifications
This program prepares students for these following Industry Certifications:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Ideal for students focusing on cybersecurity, covering security architecture, risk management, and cryptography. Preparation through courses such as CSC 7800 and cybersecurity-focused electives.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – Prepares students for roles in ethical hacking, penetration testing, and cybersecurity defense. Skills developed through cybersecurity coursework and hands-on projects.
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Beneficial for students specializing in cloud. Preparation through CSC 7510 Cloud and Enterprise System.
