MSCS entry without BSCS

I have a BA in mathematics and would like to get a MS in CS. There seem to be two entry options: a MS program with prerequisites, or second bachelors in CS.

Does anyone know a MSCS program that offers prerequisites?

Does anyone know of second degree BSCS programs? I don’t mean degree completion for the 2nd bachelors. That might bring into question the age of my degree (1975) and the possibility of having to take some general education courses.

Thanks----Jim

 

I think many MS CS programs would allow entry with the correct undergrad prerequisites. With the math degree you are likely looking at 6 or so courses. I would check out the University of Hawaii MS as a starting point. Good luck.

 

NJIT allows non-CS majors to enter its MSCS program, and has published a list of required bridge courses. See http://www.njit.edu/old/instruct/degree/mscsadmi.html

 

Another option would be the MS in CS from Capitol College. With your BA in Math, you should be able to jump right into this program so long as you have a CS or IT background and this might be your quickest route to an RA MSCS. You probably wouldn't gain anything by pursuing a 2nd bachelor's before heading to grad school. If you would prefer a bigger name school, you'll probably find that you're welcome to apply, you'd just be required to satisfy the prerequisite/bridging requirements. In most cases this will probably not involve as many courses as you'd need to complete a 2nd bachelor's. Some schools will also waive these requirements if you can show knowledge of the subject through either work experience or testing (e.g. a high score on the CS subject exam of the GRE).

Hawaii is probably the most cost-effective option (plus it has a recognizable name), but if you'd prefer a prestigious CS program you might want to consider Illinois, USC, or RPI. There are quite a few other options from recognizable schools, such as Colorado State. It would be worth sending emails to advisors in some of these programs, to see how they would handle your situation.

 

If you're near a community college, taking the bridge coursework there can be less expensive.

 

You might take a look at the online MS in Applied Computer Science at Columbus State University. I'm two courses away from a BS in Mathematics at Excelsior and am considering this program for a MS although the "Applied" seems to make it more of a CIS than a pure CS degree.