Academics

Programs of Study

At the University of Chicago, you’ll receive a top-quality education that prepares you for an exciting career in computer science. Our Masters Program in Computer Science has a strong history of helping graduates secure excellent positions at top companies. We offer the following options:

9-Course Streamlined MS in Computer Science

If you want a streamlined pathway to an advanced computer science career, our 9-course master’s is one of the best graduate computer science programs to consider. Gain foundational knowledge and skills in as little as nine months. Take five core courses across the essential disciplines of programming, theory, and systems, coupled with four elective courses in a wide range of subjects. Study full-time or part-time, with evening courses available.

See 9-Course Program

12-Course MS in Computer Science with Specialization + Internship 

Our 12-course program gives you the opportunity to explore one of four in-demand specializations in depth: 

  • Application Development
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • High Performance Computing
  • Software Engineering

You’ll complete the same five core courses as the 9-course program, as well as three elective courses. Your remaining four courses will be tailored to your specialization, preparing you for professional contexts that require specialized skill sets. Additionally, you’ll gain hands-on experience through an internship, with support from our dedicated career services team. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in a collaborative practicum. You’ll apply your theoretical understanding to real-world scenarios, helping you prepare for a role in the fast-paced environments of today’s most innovative companies.

See 12-Course Program

Joint MBA/MPCS Program 

In partnership with the Chicago Booth School of Business, we offer a joint MBA/MPCS program. This is considered one of the best graduate computer science programs for developing cross-functional competencies for in-demand careers.  Through coursework in accounting, economics, leadership, and management, the program blends essential tech and business knowledge to give students a strong foundation for careers in product development, fintech, and similar roles.

See Joint MBA/MPCS Program

Part-Time Program

Part of what makes UChicago one of the best graduate computer science programs is our ability to offer more students a world-class education.  Our part-time program is designed specifically for working professionals, allowing you to take one or two evening-taught courses per quarter to enhance your technical skills at a pace that works with (not against) your personal and professional lives.

See Part-Time Program

Additional Opportunities

As one of the best graduate computer science programs, we offer opportunities for you to find your passions and advance your skills, gain industry experience, and get a head start in your career.
4+1 Advanced Scholars
Undergraduate juniors and seniors can begin working toward their future early by applying to the master’s program before earning their bachelor’s degrees. 

Our 4+1 Advanced Scholars program rewards intellectual curiosity and discipline by admitting students with at least a 3.3 GPA who have shown technical prowess in prerequisite coursework and demonstrated a strong interest in a career in CS.

Learn More About the 4+1 Advanced Scholars Program

Bx/MS Program
Exceptional students can complete both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in four years through UChicago’s joint Bx/MS program. CS majors are offered two options: a research-oriented or a professionally oriented track. There is also a professionally oriented track offered to non-CS majors. 

Computer science students who choose the research-oriented option may complete PhD-level coursework as part of their degree.

Learn More About the Bx/MS Program

Pre-Doctoral MS in Computer Science
This highly competitive 12-course program admits a very limited number of students each year to conduct advanced research in the field. The program takes 15 months to complete and offers students the opportunity to work closely with an MS research advisor.

Learn More About the Pre-Doctoral Program

Computer Science Masters for Non Majors

UChicago’s MPCS is accessible as a computer science masters for non majors that meets you where you are and accelerates you into industry. Start with a clear on-ramp in our immersion courses to get you up to speed. 

Then continue into core courses in programming, systems, and theory. Choose from a flexible 9- or 12-course path, evening options, and hand-on experience in a practicum, and/or internship. You’ll build real CS depth fast. It’s a top choice for a masters in computer science without cs undergrad, connecting you to Chicago’s tech scene and career-ready roles.

See Immersion Courses

Why Choose UChicago?

UChicago is recognized as one of the best graduate computer science programs and is consistently among the top 30 schools for CS, according to U.S. News and World Report. We provide students with a prestigious education in the heart of Chicago, a global hub for fintech, trading, consulting, and a range of other industries. 

Our faculty are  excellent instructors who are advancing the fields of quantum computing, data analytics, cybersecurity, and more. Faculty members hold roles at trailblazing organizations that include Google, NASA, the National Center for Supercomputing Applications, and Citadel. 

This environment opens up unprecedented opportunities for collaboration, mentoring, and networking to our students, equipping you to apply theoretical expertise to solve real-world problems.

1. Accessible to Experts and Career-Changers.
MPCS welcomes applicants with deep expertise in STEM and computer science. MPCS is also a computer science masters for non majors. We provide immersion courses for students who want a masters in computer science without cs undergrad courses/degree.
2. Two Rigorous Formats.
Choose a 9-course path (5 core + 4 electives, 9–15 months) or a 12-course path (15-24 months) with added specialization and internship.
3. Evening & Part-Time Flexibility.
The MPCS can be taken full-time or part-time, with evening courses available for working professionals.
4. High-Impact Specializations.
The 12-course option offers specializations in Application Development, Artificial Intelligence, High Performance Computing, or Software Engineering.
5. Experiential Learning That Employers Value.
Structured internship and/or collaborative research practicum builds real-world, cross-discipline experience before graduation.
6. Transparent Career Outcomes.

MPCS publishes detailed annual employment reports and employer lists so you can validate the value of the program.

See Career Services

7. Access to a Major Tech Market.
Chicago is a top North American tech-talent hub with roughly 160k tech workers—broad opportunities across tech, finance, logistics, and AI.
8. Tech + Business Pathway.
The Joint MBA/MPCS with Chicago Booth positions graduates for product, fintech, and entrepreneurial leadership roles.
9. Active, Current Curriculum.
MPCS offers courses across Machine Learning, systems, programming, and discrete math—consistent with industry needs.
10. Clear Structure, Strong Support.
Central academics hub and advising resources make requirements and progression straightforward.

FAQs:

What Are the Benefits of UChicago’s MPCS Programs?
With one of the best graduate computer science programs in the nation, UChicago offers a top-ranked education and tailored coursework that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Whether you’re completing introductory or PhD-level courses, you’ll connect with faculty who are experts in the field, gaining access to their knowledge, expertise, skills, and networks.
How Can You Get a Masters in Computer Science Without CS Undergrad Courses?
UChicago offers immersion courses so that students who want a masters in computer science without cs undergrad  courses/degree can get up to speed. This computer science master’s for non-majors option allows students to gain the requisite knowledge and skills to excel in the remainder of the program.
Can Someone with a Family or a Full-Time Job Earn an MSCS Degree?
Yes. The 9-course and 12-course programs each offer a part-time option for students who are managing work and/or family responsibilities. You can take evening-taught courses at a pace that fits your personal and professional schedule.
Does the Program Prepare Me to Go Beyond the Master’s Level?
Yes. As one of the nation’s best graduate computer science programs, we offer a Pre-Doctoral MS in Computer Science that prepares committed students to pursue advanced research opportunities in the field. The program is highly selective and reserved for those who demonstrate a strong interest in a career in research or academia.

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