Online Master's in Computer Science
An MS in Computer Science Program Customized for You
One-on-One Development
Small Class Sizes
Two Specializations
Expert Faculty
Learn More Today
Complete the form to learn more about Adelphi’s programs. An enrollment counselor will reach out to you to discuss coursework, financial aid and more.
- Duration 1-2 years
- Cost per Credit $990
- Credit Hours 30
Program Benefits
- Flexible Online Format
- Specializations in Cybersecurity and Software Engineering
- Direct Access to Faculty
- Transfer up to 6 credit hours
Earn a Master’s Degree in Computer Science in Just One Year
The fully online Master’s in Computer Science program combines small classes, expert faculty and a flexible, career-focused curriculum to equip students with the skills to advance in today’s tech landscape.
To further personalize your learning experience, you can choose an optional specialization in either Cybersecurity or Software Engineering — two of the most in-demand areas in tech. These focused tracks allow you to deepen your expertise and align your studies with your professional goals.
You will also have access to Adelphi’s award-winning Center for Career and Professional Development, whose counselors can support you in your career search.
Curriculum
Full- or Part-Time
30-credit program
Finish in Just 1 Year
The MS in Computer Science (MSCS) at Adelphi is an advanced and personalized online degree program that provides students with the proper tools to advance their careers in computer science. Students will be able to choose from two optional specializations in Cybersecurity or Software Engineering to further personalize their education with their career goals.
Our online program approach offers students direct access to the faculty members who developed and teach the courses. Class sizes are small, providing personal attention so students get a one-on-one learning experience in the virtual classroom. Transfer up to six eligible credit hours.
Computer Science Core (12 credits)
Students will learn organization and programming of executive control systems. Students explore multiprogramming, multiprocessing, and time-sharing systems. Students will also explore the virtualization of systems and mathematical models of computer systems, asynchronous operation and interprocess communication, and network operating systems.
Students will design and implement databases. Students will learn about a variety of database paradigms, including relational, document and XML databases and study database internals such as architecture, transaction management and logging, in distributed and non-distributed environments.
Students will learn to apply fundamental algorithms and advanced techniques for the design and analysis of algorithms such as Randomization, Amortization, Fingerprinting, Linear Programming, Network Flow, Approximation Algorithms, Streaming Algorithms, and Online Algorithms.
Prerequisite: CSC (0145) 510 – Algorithms and Data Structures Bootcamp
Students will understand compiler organization. Students will learn lexical analysis, syntax analysis, abstract syntax trees, symbol table organization, and code generation. Students will be explore code optimization techniques.
Computer Science Electives (15 credits)
Students will work with the program director to determine elective options.
Computer Science Capstone (3-4 credits)
Choose one
Students will complete an individual research paper or a project in computer science. Students will have the opportunity to integrate the knowledge that they have gained from across the curriculum. Students will learn how computer science evolves as a discipline, how to read and find relevant research papers, identify problems, research, and learn to write up results.
Prerequisite: CSC (0145) 530 – Software Engineering Methodology
Students will investigate an original problem in computer science under guidance of a faculty member, followed by completion of a written thesis and presentation of the thesis research to the department. Independent study form required.
Admissions Requirements
Earn your MS in Computer Science degree online from Adelphi University. Submit your application today.
| Degree | Undergraduate degree in computer science (or closely related discipline) with a GPA of 3.0 or above. Also considered – Candidates who have not completed the required undergraduate degree, but who can demonstrate proficiency in computer programming (up to intermediate level), data structures, databases, and algorithms will also be considered. |
| Transcripts | Official college transcripts – Your final transcript that states a bachelor’s degree was earned from an accredited four-year institution. |
| Optional | Optional documents that can factor favorably to the admissions decision: Resume, Personal Statement, Letter of Recommendation and/or submission of a portfolio of completed technical work (academic or professional) |
| Online application form | Apply Now Application Fee: $60 *An application fee waiver may be available. |
International Students
In general, International Students are welcome to apply to our programs that do not have fieldwork components, however, there are visa restrictions and program admission requirements.
Our online programs do not qualify for F-1 Student visas. In addition to this program’s general admission requirements listed above, we require English Proficiency exam results for students in non-English speaking countries. Students with international coursework must also submit a course-by-course evaluation of their academic work prepared by a NACES member organization.
Transfer Credits
The online MS in Computer Science accepts up to six transfer credit hours. All transfer credits must be approved no later than the first semester of admission in the program and must be earned from a CEPH-accredited degree program.
When to Apply
Apply now to earn your MS online from Adelphi University. Choose from two annual start dates and take the next step to career advancement.
Tuition & Aid
At Adelphi University, we know that pursuit of an advanced degree is a major investment in your time and money. We are dedicated to providing a personalized education at an affordable rate.
Below, you will find information about:
- Tuition benefits for active duty military, veterans and their families
- Financial aid
- Affordable payment plan options
Tuition and fees listed below are applicable to Adelphi’s online MS in Computer Science. The total tuition cost is an estimate based on the current cost per credit hour and may vary if you are bringing in transfer credit hours. Tuition and fees are subject to change. For general information about tuition and fees for on-campus programs, please visit the Student Financial Services Tuition and Fees page.
| Cost per credit hour | $990 |
| Total number of credit hours | 30 |
| Total estimated cost, minus fees | $29,700 |
| Additional fees, if applicable | Application fee and books |
Military Students
Your education is an investment, and at Adelphi University we’re proud to make it as affordable as possible. We now offer tuition for Veterans & Active Military (including eligible spouses and dependent children) at a discounted rate of just $250 per credit hour for undergraduate programs.
Additionally, an application fee waiver is available to all military personnel and veterans. To learn more about this and other benefits for servicemembers please visit our veterans and military resource page here.
Financial Aid Opportunities
When you apply to Adelphi University, we suggest you fill out the FAFSA® as soon as possible. Adelphi’s FAFSA® number is 002666.
In addition to FAFSA® and any financial aid Adelphi University can offer, we encourage you to search for tuition assistance from your employer, grants or scholarships. You can also speak with an Adelphi enrollment counselor at any time to explore your options by calling 855.476.7985. Find out more about financial aid.
Explore Two Career-Focused Specializations
Customize your degree with an optional specialization that aligns with your career goals. Focus your master’s degree on cybersecurity or software engineering to build deeper, targeted expertise.
855.476.7985 Find Out MoreBecome a Leader With a Specialized Online Master’s in Cybersecurity
Online
15 Credits in this specialization
Gain advanced skills in threat detection, network defense, and cyber risk management to protect critical systems and data with an online Master’s in Cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Specialization Required Courses (5 courses from the list below, in any order)
Students will examine legal, political and ethical issues raised by cyber technologies, such as computers, the Internet, smartphones, artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Students will analyze issues including online privacy, cybercrimes, intellectual property, robot ethics, and gaming regulations, through both domestic and international perspectives will be covered.
Students will learn by combining a theoretical foundation with practical use of commonly used techniques, methods, and tools, about digital forensics. Topics include digital evidence collection, as well as evidence analysis and reporting. Students will also address legal and ethical implications of using forensic methods.
Students will receive an extensive introduction to cybersecurity. Students will learn to apply cybersecurity concepts like offensive and defensive models, law and ethics, principles of secure design, authentication and access control, human factors, vulnerability management, cryptography, standards, and will be introduced to follow-up courses in digital forensics and threat analysis.
Students will learn cyber-offensive methods and techniques commonly seen in ethical hacking scenarios and cover topics from reconnaissance and scanning to exploitation, privilege escalation, and pivoting attacks. Specific attention is given to attacking web applications using injection techniques, session management, direct object reference, and information disclosure.
Students will learn how to incorporate security considerations into the software development lifecycle by studying conceptual modeling techniques and applying them to model threats facing computer software. Topics that are covered include methods like STRIDE and DREAD, as well as emerging techniques.
Innovate with a Specialized Online Master’s in Software Engineering
Online
15 Credits in this specialization
Develop expertise in software engineering, from system architecture to modern development practices and emerging technologies with an online Master’s in Software Engineering.
Software Engineering Specialization Required Courses (5 courses from the list below, in any order)
Students will learn methods and techniques for the analysis and design of large-scale build-or- buy software development initiatives. Topics include requirements engineering, data and process modeling, object design, and the use of a standardized specification language like the Unified Modeling Language (UML).
Students will learn about accessibility in the context of computer usage and study the distinction between accessibility and usability. Students will investigate the range of barriers to computer usage and explore adaptive technology and its use in systems, and review development of accessibility guidelines and compliant system design.
Students will learn the principles of software testing and study techniques for software testing and analysis. Students will explore theoretical and practical approaches to selecting appropriate tests and checking results. Lastly, students will discover benefits and limitations of automated testing and will learn the challenges of testing software.
May be taken more than once for credit. Students will study how distributed computer systems interact via machine-to-machine interfaces, and how computer systems interact with human users via human-computer interfaces. By studying interaction patterns, students will learn to design and implement more effective systems.
- Any other CSC class (500 or higher) – 3 Credits
Career Opportunities in the Computer Science Industry
The computer science field is not only filled with opportunities — it’s also one of the most popular industries to work in.
Cybersecurity roles such as information security analysts have a projected 29% growth rate from 2024 to 2034. There’s also a significant gap in the number of skilled cybersecurity professionals needed and the available workforce, especially in senior roles.
Jobs in software engineering are also in high demand with roles such as software developers and quality assurance analysts anticipating a 15% projected growth rate within the next decade.
With an online MS in Computer Science degree, you’ll gain the advanced skills and knowledge employers are actively seeking in the high-growth tech market. This program is designed to help you build the technical expertise and problem-solving abilities needed to thrive in a competitive job market and make an immediate impact in your field.
- Earn 26%2 more than those with a bachelor’s degree
- Increased job opportunities
- Strong credentials for senior level roles in tech
Robust career services
As an online student, you will have access to comprehensive support through our Center for Career and Professional Development. Our team of career educators can prepare you for professional success through services like Handshake, recruitment programs and job fairs.
Top Careers in the Field
Software Developer $131,450 per year2
AI Engineer $144,000 per year2
Information Security Analyst $124,910 per year2
Web or Mobile App Developer $95,380 per year2
IT Project Manager $100,750 per year2
UX Designer $98,540 per year2
Systems Architect $130,390 per year2
Computer Hardware Engineer $155,020 per year2
Top Recognition for Adelphi University
Adelphi has been transforming lives with our unique approach to learning for more than 125 years. By welcoming students from around the globe both on campus and online, we’ve expanded our academic offerings and geographic reach, celebrating significant milestones and successful outcomes.
Adelphi University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and our degree programs have received considerable recognition from numerous national publications and organizations, including U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review, Colleges of Distinction, Military Friendly and more:
Program Outcomes and Skills Acquired
What You’ll Learn
- Plan, design, implement and test computer programs and applications.
- Make effective use of a variety of operating systems, programming languages and software tools such as Windows, Linux, Java, C and Python, for example.
- Prepare a substantial technical document describing the project work done.
Skills You’ll Gain
- Communicate more effectively, in writing and verbally
- Learn to work with an interdisciplinary team
- Manage resources and time more effectively
- Improved critical thinking
Faculty Spotlight
Kees Leune, Associate Professor, Mathematics and COmputer Science, College of Arts and Sciences, Information Security Officer, Information Security, Information technology
Dr. Leune’s primary research interests revolve around different aspects of cybersecurity and online privacy. His research is grounded in access control theory, information security management and conceptual modeling. His main focus is on defensive cybersecurity, including incident prevention and incident management.
Education:
- Ph.D., Tilburg University, The Netherlands (2007)
- Doctorandus (M.Sc. equivalent), Tilburg University, The Netherlands (1997)
Certifications:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), GIAC Certified Forensics Analyst (GCFA)
Get Support From Experienced Faculty
Our faculty members are expert practitioners in their fields and are dedicated to supporting our students and helping them grow as learners. Through the course of your study at Adelphi, they’ll be here to give you guidance and help you with your questions, so you’ll always feel supported.
Online Study at Adelphi University
By enrolling in Adelphi University’s online programs, you’re gaining access to a team of supportive faculty and top-notch student services. Online study at Adelphi includes:
Answers to Common Questions
You can start the FAFSA® form. Adelphi University’s FAFSA® code is 002666.
Once your application file is complete, you can expect to be notified in 2–4 weeks.
Yes, the transfer of graduate courses is limited to up to six credit hours (two courses) and accepted at the discretion of the university.
The first step is to start your application here.
In general, International Students are welcome apply to our programs that do not have fieldwork components, however, there are visa restrictions and program admission requirements.
Our online programs do not qualify for F-1 Student visas. Additionally, we require English Proficiency exam results for students in non-English speaking companies. Any student with international coursework will be required to submit a NACES member course by course evaluation. Adelphi recommends you use The Evaluation Company (TEC) or IEE (discount provided for Adelphi applicants), ECE, or WES, but any NACES member evaluation would be acceptable.
For more information on your program’s admission requirements, visit your program of interest admissions section:
- Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Business
- Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration
- Master of Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Computer Science
- Master of Public Health
- Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
You can learn more on our international student page, and as always, our enrollment support team is here to answer your questions. You can call us at 855.476.7985.
Sources
- “Computer and Information Research Scientists,” Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved September 17, 2025 from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm#tab-6.
- “Should I Get a Master’s Degree?” Career Outlook. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved September 17, 2025 from https://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2015/article/should-i-get-a-masters-degree.htm#STEM.