Online Master of Science in Computer Science

Total credit hours per program: 36 credit hours

Cost per credit hour: $735

Total cost with fees: $26,460

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.

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.

• 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). 

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. 

These 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. 

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. 

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