Study computer science in the USA: requirements, best courses, costs, etc

The questions that come to your mind when thinking to study computer Science and information systems in the USA are: What types of programs are available? How to make a good choice? And what are the costs? In this article, we will answer these questions, and other questions related to the study of computer science and information systems when attending universities in America or via online studies.

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Why study computer science in the USA?

Computer science tackles the study of computer and computational systems. And the United States has some of the most prominent universities and colleges offering computer science programs in the world. Actually, it’s the third-most renown field of study in the USA, as the country hosts two of the top-ranked IT institutions in the world: MIT and Caltech.

Learn more about these institutions in our list of the 10 best universities in the USA.

It’s no surprise then that computer science is one of the favorite study majors among international students in the USA. They have the choice between a bachelor’s or follow up with a master’s in computer science. Either way, they’ll land up a job in a promising and rapidly growing area. And this will lead to the most lucrative career prospects, in the US and in the world.

To give you an idea, the average salary for a graduate with a bachelor’s degree is among USD 65,000 per year. And the offers in the field are expected to raise up to 11% on the job market by 2024. With a computer science degree in the US, students can land positions at technology companies, technology universities and colleges, research institutions and even government agencies.

What are the requirements to study computer science in USA?

Knowing the importance of the field, those who hope to secure admission in a university in the USA to study computer science must fulfill certain criteria. Starting with good scores at a test of English language proficiency. It’s only fair, since without an excellent command of the English language, students won’t be able to understand what they learn. They won’t either be able to communicate efficiently and settle in their new study environment.

Moreover, students also must have impressive academic records – especially in computer science related subjects. In most universities in the USA, students will likely need to sit a GRE (Graduate Record Examination) which measures their aptitude in mathematics, vocabulary, and analytical writing.

To apply at the undergraduate level, students need to take the American College Testing (ACT) entrance test. This will evaluate their readiness to take admission in US universities and colleges. More precisely, they’d be tested on their capacity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Documentation to apply for computer science study in the USA

Each university and college will require different documents. But the most common documentation requirements to study computer science in the USA include:

Filled application form for universities or colleges
Bank statement to attest for a good source of funds
All academic transcripts and previous degrees
A valid passport
Copy of the visa and I-20
Passport size photos
Resume
Dissertation and statement of purpose for the study.

Learn also how to apply to universities in the USA.

Study Computer Science in USA online or on-campus?

Study in most degrees are on site, but many are online or are mixed programs. While online programs are likely to fit into busy schedules for professionals, on-campus programs can easily connect students to networking opportunities as well as career development programs, such as professional exhibitions and internships.

Online Computer Science Degree

According to BLS, which is the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum education required for most careers in this field, including each of the following jobs: Computer Information Systems Manager, Computer Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, and Information Security Analyst.

Moreover, the master’s degree in Online Computer Information Systems provides flexibility for students who also work as professionals. Certainly, web-based programs typically follow the same rigorous curriculum as undergraduate programs. Being that, this results in similar progression opportunities for graduates.

Indeed, online courses are also ideal for students with additional commitments (such as child or family care) as well as committing to work & classroom schedules.

If you are interested in online courses learn about the other options of Distance Learning that you have in USA

Computer Information systems degree vs Information Technology

The science master’s degree in Computer Information Systems typically focuses on practical applications of technology, while Information Technology focuses on the technical aspects of software and hardware systems.

However, students who have obtained a master’s degree in information technology may also qualify for leadership and/or analytical functions in the computer information systems industry, where there is a fair amount of overlap between these two areas.

Undergraduate computer science courses in USA

As already mentioned above, a bachelor’s degree in computer science in the USA will help students land a successful career in the field. Undergraduate courses in computer science in the USA explore the mathematical and theoretical fundamentals of computing. Students will then pursue coursework, focusing on algorithms, artificial intelligence, computer graphics, mathematics, programming principles, operating systems to name just a few.

Masters in computer science in USA for international students

Following their undergraduate studies in computer science, students may want to pursue a master’s degree. Usually, students have the choice between 2 types of master’s degrees: a ME (Master of Engineering) or an MS (Master of Science). The ME in computer science is for professionals who want to get an advanced degree while working in the field. Students can then earn their bachelor, start working, then pursue a master’s at the same time.

The MS, on the other hand is broader. But it’s also the most sought graduate degree in computer science among international students in the US. With a master’s in computer science, students get a deeper understanding of key concepts such as advanced algorithms, language theory or software development.

Read also our guide on master’s study in the US.

How many years does it take to study computer science in USA?

It will generally take 3 to 4 years to complete a bachelor’s program in computer science in the United States. For a master’s, the typical length is 30-credit that will take on average one to two years of study to complete, on a full-time mode.

Moreover, most online master’s degree programs in computer information systems require students to complete 30 to 40 accredited hours. Likewise, it takes approximately two years for the standard computer information systems master program to complete.

How much does it cost to study computer science in USA?

The cost of an online science master’s degree in Computer Information Systems depends on several factors. As a matter of fact, government residency is one of the important considerations, as many colleges and universities charge higher fees for students from outside the country.

However, some schools charge students a fixed online fee regardless of their residence. The technology fee is another key factor; these fees often apply to online students.

Additionally, costs per credit for an online master’s degree in Computer Information Systems typically range from $420 to $820. Being that, students should expect to pay between $13,000 and $33,000 in total tuition fees.