Available online and on-campus, the University of Michigan-Flint’s Master of Science in Computer Science and Information Systems program provides a solid understanding of the principles of computers and computing. With two concentration options—Computer Science or Information Systems—the program builds your in-demand skills in the areas that align with your career goals.
The MS in Computer Science and Information Systems program welcomes students without a computer science background after taking non-credit certificates in Algorithms, Programming, and Data Structures. Through rigorous study, you are empowered to enter and excel in a career as an administrator, analyst, designer, developer, or programmer leading technology teams.
Current UM-Flint students may wish to consider enrolling on our Joint BS/MS in Computer Science & Information Systems. The joint program curriculum allows students to simultaneously earn undergraduate and graduate credits, which count for bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
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Why Choose UM-Flint’s MS in Computer Science & Information Systems Program?
Get Your Degree On-Campus or 100% Online
Whether you live far from campus or nearby, the MS in Computer Science and Information Systems is designed to accommodate your life and goals with our leading-edge Cyber Classroom learning format. It allows you to tailor your learning experience with the convenient 100% online format, the face-to-face interaction of the classroom, or a combination of both. Our approach redefines the traditional classroom experience by seamlessly blending in-class and online learning.
Transformative Cyber Classroom
UM-Flint’s Master’s in Computer Science and Information Systems program immerses students in the lectures captured in our unique cyber classroom experience through an advanced robotic audio-video recording system. The system processes multiple cameras, microphones, and digital input devices such as digital white boards and document cameras with an intelligent autonomous recording system to clearly capture everything.
As an online student, you can interact with the faculty through our Canvas online content management system. You also can utilize the playback on-demand feature, allowing you to watch the lectures as many times as necessary to grasp concepts.
Real-World Experience
The MS in Computer Science and Information Systems program empowers you to apply the knowledge you gain in the classroom and research to real-world technology projects at the University of Michigan-Flint. During the program of study, you learn through team-based projects to build the collaborative and problem-solving skills needed to be an effective team member and leader.
Preparatory Fast Track for Non-Computer Science Students
Students with undergraduate degrees in non-computing fields may need to demonstrate proficiency with algorithms, object-oriented programming, and data structures to qualify for admission to a computing-related MS program. The following two options are in place to qualify for admission to UM-Flint graduate programs in the College of Innovation and Technology:
- Non-credit certificates in Algorithms, Programming, and Data Structures – CIT offers non-credit certificates in three areas of preparation: Algorithms, Programming, and Data Structures. Students must pass the certificate tests with 85% or better and provide proof of successful completion to the Graduate Programs Manager in CIT at [email protected]. These certificates are not for academic credit, are guided self-study of the topics, take approximately 4 weeks per certificate, and can be taken simultaneously.
- Fast Track – For students seeking a more traditional, slower-paced instruction, CIT also offers an accelerated “Fast Track” program consisting of five undergraduate courses. The Fast Track program assists students from any background in preparing themselves for success in CIT graduate programs. Students must earn a grade of C (2.0) or better in each Fast Track course and must maintain a B (3.0) or better cumulative grade point average in all Fast Track courses.
Computer Science and Information Systems students must show proficiency in CSC 175, 275 & 375 (certificates and/or Fast Track courses)
Ample Research Opportunities
Graduate students of the Computer Science and Information Systems program have ample opportunities to engage in research with our esteemed faculty. These scholarly pursuits encourage collaborations between faculty and students and drive innovation in the industry. Check out the current research projects.
Master’s in Computer Science & Information Systems Program Curriculum
The MS in Computer Science & Information Systems program offers a curriculum that allows students to personalize their degree through concentration courses and electives based on their academic and career aspirations. Through rigorous study, students can improve their skills in problem-solving, technical support and training, and software/hardware management.
Program Options
- Computer Science concentration – Provides you with in-depth, state-of-the-art knowledge of critical computer-related technologies. The concentration coursework includes Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering and Cloud Computing, and Digital Transformation as areas of specialization.
- Information Systems concentration – You can choose the track that supports your professional goals and interests to gain specialized training necessary for your career field. Choose from specializations in Business Information Systems; Health Information Systems, Human-Centered Design, AR/VR and Gaming, or Digital Transformation.
Thesis or Non-Thesis Track
Whichever concentration you select, you then get to choose between a thesis track or non-thesis track to complete the degree requirements. The thesis track challenges students to write a research paper and conduct an oral defense in addition to the required coursework. Students completing the non-thesis track complete additional credits in elective graduate-level courses and achieve satisfactory performance on the master’s level exit examination.
Dual Degrees
Students in the dual degree program have the option to complete a Master of Science in Computer Science and Information Systems with a concentration in Information Systems and a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Computer Information Systems.
Learn more about the dual degrees option.
Career Opportunities with a Master’s Degree in Computer Science & Information Systems
The University of Michigan-Flint’s master’s degree in Computer Science & Information Systems arms you with competitive advantages to pursue leadership positions in the technology industry. It can also assist career changers to break into the fast-growing technology industry with advanced skills in computing.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in Computer and Information Technology is projected to grow 23% from 2022 to 2032, exceeding the average growth rate in the United States. The median annual wage for the related occupations is $136,620.
How to Apply to the MS in Computer Science & Information Systems Program?
Interested applicants to the Master of Science in Computer Science and Information Systems program should meet the following requirements:
- A Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited institution. Preference will be given to students with a background in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics field. Applicants who lack eligibility requirements in coursework (Algorithms, Programming, and Data Structure) will be required to complete courses from the prerequisite list by taking the online non-credit certificates option or the Fast Track option.
- Minimum overall undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements may be offered admission. Admission in such cases will depend heavily on other indices of the student’s ability to handle graduate-level work. These might include strong performance on GPA in the major and/or other experiences that are clearly indicative of strong academic ability.
- Applicants with a three-year bachelor’s degree from an institution outside of the U.S. are eligible for admission at the University of Michigan-Flint if the course-by-course credential evaluation from the World Education Services report clearly states the three-year degree completed is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
State Authorization for Online Students
In recent years, the federal government has emphasized the need for universities and colleges to be in compliance with the distance education laws of each individual state. If you are an out-of-state student intending to enroll in an online program, please visit the State Authorization page to verify the status of UM-Flint with your state.
Application Requirements
To be considered for admission, submit an online application below. Other materials can be emailed to [email protected] or delivered to the Office of Graduate Programs, 251 Thompson Library.
For undergraduate students who are interested in the joint Bachelor of Science/MS Computer Science and Information Systems Program program, please find the joint degree application requirements.
- Application for Graduate Admission
- $55 application fee (non-refundable)
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Please read our full transcript policy for more information.
- For any degree completed at a non-US institution, transcripts must be submitted for an internal credential review. Read the following for instructions on how to submit your transcripts for review.
- If English is not your native language, and you are not from an exempt country, you must demonstrate English proficiency (additional information can be found below).
- University of Michigan will consider a three year degree from India equivalent to a US bachelor’s degree if the degrees have been earned with a minimum of 60% marks and the awarding institutions have been accredited by India’s National Assessment and Accreditation Council with a grade of “A” or better.
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals who can evaluate your scholarly and/or professional ability (At least one recommendation must be from an academic reference). This requirement is waived for all University of Michigan Alumni.
- Statement of Purpose describing your personal goals for graduate study
- Students from abroad must submit additional documentation.
- International students on a student visa (F-1 or J-1) may begin the MS program in the fall or winter semester. To comply with the immigration regulations requirements, international students on a student visa must enroll in at least 6 credits of in-person classes during their fall and winter semesters.
Bharath Kumar B.
[email protected]
Educational Background: Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Communication Engineering from JNTU, Hyderabad, Telangana.
What are some of the best qualities of your program? The UM-Flint Computer Science and Information Systems program is a great option for students due to a number of exceptional features. The professors are incredibly friendly and helpful, and they are always prepared to lend a hand and offer advice. The instructors are all very skilled in their disciplines, and they all have simple, understandable teaching strategies. If a student has trouble understanding a lecture, the instructors are committed to making sure that every student understands the subject by providing more time and assistance. Under the guidance of Professor John Hart, my research experience has been immensely rewarding and has given me priceless possibilities for practical learning.
This program can be completed 100% online or on-campus with in-person courses. Admitted students can apply for a student (F-1) visa with the requirement of attending in-person courses. Students living abroad may also complete this program online in their home country. Other nonimmigrant visa holders currently in the United States please contact the Center for Global Engagement at [email protected].
International Admission – English Proficiency Requirements
If English is not your native language, and you are not from an exempt country, even if you are currently a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and regardless of how long you have resided or been educated in the U.S.*, you must demonstrate English proficiency by providing evidence through one of the following methods:
1. Take the Test of English as a Foreign Language, the International English Language Testing System test, the Michigan English Test (replaces MELAB), Duolingo English Test, or Examination for the Certificate of Proficiency in English. Scores must be no more than two (2) years old.
Review the following document for more information on specific scores required for admission consideration.
2. Provide an official transcript showing a degree earned at an accredited U.S. college or university OR a degree earned at a foreign institution where the language of instruction was exclusively English** OR successful completion (‘C’ or higher) of ENG 111 or ENG 112 or its equivalent.
Application Deadlines
Submit all application materials to the Office of Graduate Programs by 5 p.m. on the day of the application deadline. The Master of Science in Computer Science & Information Systems program offers rolling admission with monthly application reviews.
To be considered for admission, all application materials must be submitted on or before:
- Fall – May 1 (guaranteed consideration/international student deadline*)
- Fall – August 1 (if space permits, US citizens and permanent residents only)
- Winter – October 1 (guaranteed consideration/international student deadline)
- Winter – December 1 (US citizens and permanent residents only)
- Summer – April 1 (US citizens and permanent residents only)
*You must have a complete application by the early deadline to guarantee application eligibility for scholarships, grants, and research assistantships.
The final deadlines for international students are May 1 for the fall semester and October 1 for the winter semester. Those students from abroad who are not seeking a student visa may follow the other application deadlines noted above.
Estimated Tuition and Cost
The University of Michigan-Flint takes education affordability seriously. Learn more about our tuition for our program here.
Program Information Request
At UM-Flint, we have dedicated staff who will help you choose a program that meets your career goals. For any questions about earning or starting your MS in Computer Science and Information Systems, contact CIT Graduate Programs at [email protected].
Learn More about the MS in Computer Science & Information Systems Program
Do you envision yourself starting a rewarding career or advancing your current role in the technology field? If so, take the next step to submit your application!
Our online and on-campus learning format makes it convenient for you to earn the Master of Science degree in Computer Science and Information Systems. Want to learn more about the program? Request information.
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